Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts to Feature Treehouse Shakers's Production

By Kathryn Sheridan December 14, 2016

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts will present Coyote’s Dance, a performance by the Treehouse Shakers, for the 2017 season.

The 2017 season of the Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts will include a performance by the Treehouse Shakers called Coyote’s Dance.

Coyote’s Dance combines several North American Native American stories about the coyote, in which the animal is often portrayed as a trickster and a teacher. The stories were adapted and mixed with modern dance for a performance geared toward children ages 4-10.

Puppets, narration, costumes, and music will bring the story of the coyote alive. Prior to the performance the Treehouse Shakers will teach the audience some of the movements. Then, during moments in the show when the coyote begins to dance with the stars, kids in the audience can join in with the same moves from their seats.

“My whole life I’ve been surrounded by coyotes and have heard them howl at night,” says Mara McEwin, the artistic director and co-founder of Treehouse Shakers.

“They’re often feared by people like ranchers…. But in the Native American stories they’re seen as shape-shifters and tricksters…who can always adapt, no matter the situation…they’re very revered,” McEwin says. “I thought that these were wonderful stories that our children needed to be hearing, no matter their culture.”

Treehouse Shakers is a theater and dance company based in New York, entering its 20th season. Its original shows, geared for all ages, mix a script with dance choreography and tour around the country.

Coyote’s Dance will be performed on Feb. 11 at 2pm at the Kumble Theater on the LIU Brooklyn campus. Tickets are $15. After the performance, kids can attend a workshop to learn more coyote tales and dance moves (RSVP required as workshop space is limited). For tickets visit brooklyncenter.org or call 718-951-4500.

Main image: The Treehouse Shakers perform Coyote’s Dance.
Mercedes McAndrew