Culture Shock: El Kookooee

Clifford Grindstaff
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2 min read
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Corporeal Art

The human body is a magnificent machine, and fortunately much of its operation is not dependent on knowing how it works. Just throw some food in, and it performs a multitude of chemical reactions. We can easily take for granted the intricacies of these bags of bones. The artists of the body—those who find expression in movement and dance—remind us of the grace and beauty that our complicated machines are capable of.

This weekend the Duke Dance Collective provides an opportunity to experience some of Albuquerque’s best dancers and choreographers at work. “Harvest: A Suite of Six” showcases two acts, one by the DDC and another by Marta Lichlyter. The pieces (including ensemble performances as well as solos, duets and trios) explore human relationships and all they inflict: love, grief, dependency, companionship and absurdity. Lichlyter’s works are snapshots of daily life, from the basic inspiration music can incite in the body to explorations of the phases of love. Becky Glasgow’s pieces present more unsettling themes, and Carol Benders’ take a lighthearted look at unrecognized habits. In its fourth year, “Harvest” arrives for one weekend, this Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27 and 28.

Boogeyman Bonfire

I’ve never met anyone that doesn’t like a good campfire. There’s a primal fascination watching something burn. It’s transformative. On Sunday, Oct. 28, the South Valley gives us the greatest fire of the year with
El Kookooee. This annual burning of a 40-foot-tall monster designed by children is much like Zozobra, except closer to home and free. And way better. Participants inscribe their fears and worries on pieces of paper to be fed to the flames along with the monster. The Xochipilli Aztec Dancers and Zenia Belly Dancers are set to perform this year, alongside DJKoss and emcee Michael Tinker. And you may do your own little dance watching your worries float as ashes so easily and lightly away. Fan the flames at Rio Bravo Park behind the South Valley Library starting at 6 p.m.
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