“Surroundings: A Tribute to Maya Lin” performance

Media Advisory 

WHAT:          “Surroundings: A Tribute to Maya Lin” performance 

WHEN:          Oct. 16, 23 and 30 | 6–7 p.m.         

WHERE:       Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery
                      Eighth and G streets N.W. 

WHO:            Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company 

The National Portrait Gallery’s Choreographer-in-Residence Dana Tai Soon Burgess will premiere “Surroundings: A Tribute to Maya Lin” Oct. 16, 23 and 30 in response to the museum’s exhibition “One Life: Maya Lin.” The performance and exhibition explore the life and work of the acclaimed architect, sculptor and environmentalist. Drawing inspiration from Maya Lin’s design training and linear aesthetic, Burgess has choreographed an abstract, angular and architectural performance that emphasizes the lines of the dancer’s bodies in relation to space.  

Performed by eight members of the Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company, the piece will be accompanied by opera singers Millicent Scarlett and Keith Hudspeth, with Dana Scott on piano and Erin Snedecor on the cello.  

Before the debut performance, which takes place Sunday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m., Burgess will sign copies of his memoir, Chino and the Dance of the Butterfly, published by University of New Mexico Press, in the museum’s G Street lobby from 4 to 6 p.m. The book will be available for purchase at the museum’s store.  

Admission to the performance is free. Media can RSVP at obusekge@si.edu.