""Requiem for an Electric Chair" is a work of catharsis and witness, a way of both processing [Toto Kisaku’s] own trauma and alerting the world to the suffering of others.”
Read program notes by Ovations Executive & Artistic Director Aimée M. Petrin.
Congolese and immigrant playwright Toto Kisaku was moments away from being killed when his executioner showed him a moment of mercy. “I cannot kill you, because I know you.” This simple sentence was the saving grace for him. It was also the moment that inspired this production. Set in an illegal detention center, Requiem for an Electric Chair is a powerful and unforgettable solo, multimedia performance about Kisaku’s escape from persecution because of his artistic expression. Recognized in his native Democratic Republic of Congo for creating theater that shines a bright light on injustices, Kisaku is a masterful storyteller whose work has been presented at festivals around the world.
Please be advised, this program may contain explicit language, images and/or sensitive matter.
Ovations Offstage
Post-performance discussion
Directly following the performance, join Toto Kisaku and Maine-based artist Moon Machar for a discussion. Audience members will be invited to ask questions.
SHOW TIMES
APRIL 27, 2022 – 7PM
WESTBROOK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, WESTBROOK
BUY: Thursday, April 27 • 7:00pm
MASKS & UP TO DATE VACCINATIONS OR A NEGATIVE TEST REQUIRED
BOX OFFICE
PRICES START AT: $25
STUDENT DEAL: $15
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All tickets are exchangeable to another Portland Ovations performance within the season.
Exchange requests must be made prior to the performance date of the original tickets.
ACCESSIBILITY
Wheelchairs, Assisted hearing, ASL, Captions (for virtual programming)
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Video preview of "Requiem for an Electric Chair"
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A Conversation with Toto Kisaku and Portland-based Artists
Enjoy a recorded conversation with Ovations visiting artist, Toto Kisaku, along with Portland-based artists Reza Jalali, Moon Machar, and Kerem Durdag as they discuss the process of writing and performing personal work, rooted in activism and community engagement. Recorded January 20, 2022
