Cognatus on the larger scale investigates ecofeminism and the patriarchal mechanisms that assimilate women and nature. Both often devalued and exploited, seeking elevation and liberation, the relationship between them is a rhizome of interconnections. Radical ecofeminism celebrates the relationship between women and nature through the revival of ancient rituals, creating a source of inspiration and empowerment. For socialist ecofeminism, environmental problems are rooted in the rise of capitalist patriarchy and the ideology that the Earth and nature can be exploited for human process through technology. Movement motifs and systems based on this research are created in collaboration with the dancers. Fishel uses history and theory, combined with text and poetry to weave movements that explore ideas of womenhood, cyclical patterns of nature and violence, migration, resistance, and identities in bloom. We invite audience members to dive deeper into community connection and empathy towards both women and our Mother Earth- through reflection, conversation, and action.

This work is site specific, and will utilize the entire MAAS Garden space. Audiences are welcome to sit at any time, or immerse themselves among the artists as they move through the space.

Appropriate for all ages

This show is presented as part of Cannonball Festival, Philly’s artist-centered performance hub, packing in 65+ full length shows and 300 performances in two nearby venues. Discover risk-taking theater, dance, circus, music, and comedy alongside a vibrant garden bar with a free nightly cabaret, pop-up events, workshops, artist talkbacks, and more. September 1–30 at the Maas Building (1320 N 5th St) and Icebox Project Space (1400 N American St). Learn more at cannonballfestival.org.

Health & Safety

Proof of vaccination is required to attend this event, and masks must be worn for the duration of the performance. Audience members will be asked to show proof of vaccination before entering the venue. Both digital and physical proof of vaccination are accepted. Please plan accordingly.

Credits

Choreographer: Britt Whitmoyer Fishel in collaboration with the artists

Performance by: Teigha Beth Bailey, Noëlle Davé, Lexi DiFilippo, Lydia Patselas

Original Score: James Reindeer

About the Artist

Britt Fishel and Artists is a collaborative, project based company, presenting both live performance and dance film, in the Philadelphia community and beyond. Through research and performance, we aim to foster a better assimilation of the human experience, to democratize and normalize socioeconomic, political, and identity driven conversations that are both diverse and inclusive through intersectionality. Through the lens of a feminist perspective, we address our past, to better understand our present, to change our future.