September Song

Harbourfront Centre Theatre, Toronto, Sept 10 - 19, 2021
A durational performance with continuous 18 track audio score (24 minute loop)

Presented twenty years after the events of 9/11, September Song was an immersive performance installation based on first-hand experience and the lingering impacts of that cataclysmic morning in Lower Manhattan, where I lived for decades. I performed the role of “The Sweeper” (a first responder, COVID “essential worker”, or caregiver); a PPE clad labourer working to create order and equanimity.

The sensations of slipping, falling, floating, and ascending were embedded in the sounds and imagery. A diverse cast of recorded vocalists comprised the spatialized audio-score, which ranged from isolated, individuated utterances to the unified sounds of a choral ensemble. Acclaimed piano artist Eve Egoyan, and bowed saw player Neal Evans, were also heard. The audience was invited to safely gather during the COVID reopening period, and to reflect on global events, both past and present.

CREDITS

Heather Nicol  
Eve Egoyan, Piano
Bonnie Beecher, Lighting Design
Duncan Morgan, Production Manager
The role of the “The Sweeper” alternates between Heather Nicol and Paula Engstrom 
Neema Bickersteth, Solo Vocals
Stephen Michael Spencer, Solo Vocals
Neal Evans, Bowed Saw

CHORUS

Thom Allison
Rebecca Campbell
HAUI Hinton-Davis
Frank Evans
Peg Evans
David Fox
Martin Julien
David McCune
Heather Nicol
Nicola Protetch