Jennifer Blaine on Denise McCormack

Hey there Denise!

My dear friend Ronnie Krensel, a filmmaker who passed a year ago, once told me what distinguishes us from any other species is our ability to tell stories. So I was glad to experience your show, The Kenning Place, and get a window into age-old stories that are rooted in origin myths and wrestle with our nature in the cosmos.

Your reassuring voice radiated a persistent kindness that filled the Rotunda space. Your first story’s theme, “we can be the one who can give freely,” was both inspiring and accessible. I liked the intricacy of the story given to you by a Navajo woman about how the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th worlds were created. Chaos persisted throughout and as you shared the desperation and strife, I was comforted that by the time the 4th world was created, the stars were finally placed in the sky. I appreciated the framing that, as we gaze upon them, they are a reminder for how to live in peace and harmony, that is in direct contrast to the challenges you recounted of the lower worlds.

The accompanying projections of stars, the galaxy and stone pathway on the screen behind you were a subtle but affecting choice to help transport us into the stories. Your voice unfolded an undulating ribbon of words which I kept imaging could be subliminal soundtrack to reset humanity’s better self. The elemental stirrings of your stories invite us back into remembering our ancient collective mythologies.

I liked that you ended your performance with “Moon Shadow” by Cat Stevens. I found the song to be an excellent storytelling moment, providing a sweetness, earnestness, and tension that had me hear the lyrics better than anytime I have heard the song before. That is the power of a great storyteller!

Thanks for your commitment to telling stories.

Hope you have a great Fringe,

Jennifer

Denise McCormack is the Artist/Producer of The Kenning Place.

Jennifer Blaine is the Creator and Performer of Raw Deal.