Could you give us a quick overview of your professional journey and what led you to the curational role at Celebrate Brooklyn?
I have been in live music and events since 2006. What led me specifically to producing and curating were the few years on the road as and artist manager. I got to go to many festivals in the US and in Europe. When I was looking for more stability after becoming a mother, I landed a job at Lincoln Center in 2015 as an Associate Producer, which was my last role prior to my current role at BRIC.
What key themes and messages are you aiming to convey through this year's programming?
The underlying theme is 'Raised by Brooklyn' which encompasses our organizational mission of bringing arts and culture to the Brooklyn community, representing the myriad of people, cultures and ethnicities, as well as capture the feeling and vibe of the borough. Musically we aim to support underrepresented voices and new voices and this is visible with focus on emerging talent from Ambar Lucid to Talibah Saifyah to Charlotte Adigery + Bolis Pupul.
How do you envision the future of the festival in the coming years?
More dance, more DJs, greater cultural expressions and representations and a commitment to free and accessible programs.
Which performance are you most excited about this year?
The Fishbone + Son Rompe Pera was one show that I was really excited about- I just love seeing our audiences happy and I love that folks are discovering new music. Also cannot wait for the Meshell Ndegeocello night. It was the first show I booked this season and I couldn't wait to announce it. Meshell is releasing a new album and we will all be soaking in the incredible music while celebrating the centennial of influential and culturally important writer and activist James Baldwin