On the Edge

UpRise! Productions is dedicated to the creation, production, and performance of cutting edge performance work in Austin. Core company members have over 90 years combined of performing arts experience, most of which is National (see attached resumes). Works performed by the company are truly multi-media, mixing dance with spoken word, stage combat, and capoeira. This approach serves to push each art form to the extreme. Dance forms blend hip hop, modern, lindy hop and West African as a complementary extension of the stories that unfold in alternative tongues. Ann Elizabeth Wynn stated that the company was creating a “new genre” of art through its’ unique ability to weave together languages of expression. Although this company is only a year old, it clearly touts a powerful message.

Multi-Cultural Austin

UpRise! Productions is committed to producing quality work by and for diverse groups of people. As one of the most diverse performing arts groups in Texas, we remain true to our mission of affecting change through performance and empowerment education. We achieve this by delivering unique quality work in every performance and educational workshop. Our events are geared to span across age, genders, ethnicities, race, sexual orientation and aim to create a safe experiential environment that routinely challenges, provokes, and inspires.

The multi-cultural arts community has traditionally struggled with visibility in Austin. According to a study released in May, 2006 by the Austin Visitors’ Bureau, African Americans make up only 10% of the City’s demographic composition. In order to revitalize Austin’s ethnic demographic in a meaningful way, Austin must demonstrate a visible commitment to the celebration and preservation of a variety of diverse cultures. 2005’s City Manager, Tobi Hammet Futrell, makes reference in her letter to Austin’s Mayor and City Council about the “concerns about race relations and eroded trust with our African American population.” The letter, which serves as a “report card,” also cites “Social and Cultural Infrastructure” as the final item of the ten indicators that will measure quality of life for African Americans in Austin.

This project intends to address that very need through the celebration of diverse cultures through an ethnic aesthetic. Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, 30% of evacuees relocated to Austin causing a new Diaspora. The recent influx of evacuees has made the need for Austin’s commitment to the African American community and other cultures even more crucial and timely. The “Rebellious Creativity” Project aims to address these issues in part through the creation and performance of its original works. Through the two public performances, the Austin Community and its visitors will have artistic work held at a National standard created and performed by the community’s own residents.