Making Project Daydream
The idea for Project Daydream came to me just as the pandemic was becoming a reality in the US, but before we really understood the long term effects of the virus. I wanted to create a body of work that would encourage calm and imagination for young people. I wanted to introduce the meditative and warm tone of the marimba, and challenge ears and eyes with improvisatory ideas and contemporary sounds. I envisioned performing it for gymnasiums full of kids, with my colleague Susie Lovett of Hands to Heart Center sharing guided spoken encouragement. I saw the kids laying on yoga mats, and experiencing a new work in a special way.
The Neighborhood Arts program at Celebrity Series was excited to take on the project, as I’ve worked in numerous youth programs with CS in the past. We brainstormed partners and settings, and put the project in motion. However, as time rolled on, it became clear to us that a live presentation of the work would not be possible this academic year.
We shifted to host the work online, and then my own imagination started to soar. A venue that instantly came to mind was the beautiful echo-chamber that is the Boston Center for the Arts Cyclorama. I knew I’d also need a stellar videography team, and my friends at the Loop Lab are always incredible - offering creative energy and the highest quality of support and expertise. Suddenly, the project took on a new life, and we’ve spent this week at the venue, experimenting, working as a team, and enjoying a moment to create together. I’m even getting a chance to try out my new projection mapping skills!
My creative partners include some of my favorite humans: with Tim Hall playing sax and electronics, Allison Tanenhaus’ hypnotic moving imagery, and Karim Badwan’s gorgeous vintage industrial lamps. My intern, Katie Medrano-Escobar has stepped up as an irreplaceable Assistant Director, and friends Jane Long, Julian Loida, and Adam (husband!) have helped schlep gear, manage COVID requirements, and assemble lots of lamps.
Join us for the online premiere!
MF Dynamics is hosting an online showing of the project on Monday, November 2 at 8pm. After this premiere, Celebrity Series will share with schools and community centers around Greater Boston, and we hope the project helps folks take a moment for themselves in the chaos that is 2020.
The team that is making it happen:
Music and Direction by: Maria Finkelmeier
Performed by: Maria Finkelmeier & Timothy Hall
Spoken encouragement by: Susie Lovett of Hands to Heart Center
Projected visuals: Allison Tanenhaus
Videography and Editing: The Loop Lab
Assistant Video Direction by: Katie Medrano-Escobar
Vintage lamps provided by: Karim Badwan Design
Community Partner: Celebrity Series Boston
Venue Partner: Boston Center for the Arts Cyclorama
Photo by: Adam DeTour Photography
