Liberata Dance Theatre :::...

2009-11-15T09:42:00.000-08:00

LDT January thru June 2009

2009-06-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

In February we had our first Board meeting of the year 2009. In this meeting we discussed and planned for some projects for this year; having a fundraising event either at the end of 2009 or spring 2010 was discussed. Below is a photo of board member Yveline Mcintosh displaying her service award at the meeting.

LDT has been active with different projects and collaborations since the beginning of 2009. Together with one of our advisors, Mabel Chee, we completed a proposal in March for the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) for the 2009-2010 season. We hope to receive some funding to present our upcoming dance/theatre project "CONSTRUCTION", related to all we are going through on a personal, environmental, social, national and global level. (photo below of Construction as a work in progress in Curacao Summer of 2008)

Although LDT was not able to attend the Antillean Aruban Cultural Affairs Association (AACAA) Black History Month Celebration during February, Ms. Sint Jago sent a donation to support their event.

On March 18, LDT presented "HONRA NAN" ((HONOR THEM), celebrating women around the world. Ms. Sint Jago, President and Artistic Director's concerns with women's issues inspire her to express her thoughts and feelings. As March is often considered Women's History Month, she sees it as her duty to research and help bring forward what millions of women all around the world, young and old have to endure daily: the discrimination, abuse and lack of advancement opportunities just because having been born a female. (Above photo by Cornell Stossel depicts cast of HONRA NAN)

As it is a trademark of LDT, the performance was a combination of different disciplines, including dance, spoken word, poetry, live music and song. Photos left and right by Cornell Stossel. As HISTORY was made this year with Barack Obama becoming the first African American president in the US, Ms. Sint Jago wanted to pay tribute to him and honored him with a poem. The poem was part of LDT's HONRA NAN performance, with the company also dancing on the song "At Last" also a tribute, now to the FIRST COUPLE. The intention is to send the poem to Mr. Obama, as suggested by many.
After the show there was a short Q&A session, refreshments, snack and the "Not For The Faint At Heart Brownies" , from our loyal supporter and friend Danielle Depasquale.

Comments: "Het was enig. Ik heb heel erg genoten", meaning "It was wonderful. I enjoyed it very much". "LDT is doing great and informative work. I would like to serve on the Board", Dr. Hanne Favelukes.

In March also, LDT's President and Treasurer, Ms. Sint Jago and Mr. Sherrod visited a campaign to promote tourism on the island of Curacao. This event was held at the Essex House in Manhattan. It was in a very well organized, intimate, neatly decorated space with Curacaoan themes. It was also well attended by many involved in tourism and the travel business, like photographers, promoters, agencies, writers, including the Commissioner of Tourism of Curacao, Mr. Ruggenaarth.

The cocktail party was excellent and a musical trio complimented the Caribbean atmosphere. We were able to speak to different potential supporters and with Mr. Andre Rojer, sales and marketing director who promised (and indeed kept his word) to send us items we could use as giveaways at our shows that represent Curacao.
Ms. Sint Jago was interviewed by Channel 80, a Curacaoan television station, and she took the opportunity to promote LDT and its sister company Liberata Dance Theatre Curacao Connection, (LDTCC) and thanked all its national and international Board members, advisors, supporters, volunteers and friends. She also talked about LDT's upcoming shows of 2009.

LDT was selected for the second year on a row to participate in the Immigrant Heritage Week Celebration, April 17 to 24, 2009 and held its performance again at the Pearl Studio on 35 Street and 8th Avenue.

(Photo below by Cornell Stossel)

On April 18, LDT presented "CURAZAO= CURACAO", from the HEART of CURACAO to the HEART of NEW YORK CITY with LOVE. It was done in collaboration with the Antillean Aruban Cultural Affairs Association (AACAA). It was a simulated live television morning show, CARIBBEAN BEAT, where the two hosts (two actors) presented "their" research on the island of Curacao, in terms of history, heritage, culture.
Ms. Sint Jago was the featured guest on their show and helped clarify different issues the hosts presented and together with another dancer performed some folkloric and other dances. (See photos below taken by Cornell Stossel)

There was a lot of audience participation and they appeared to enjoy the fun filled educational/entertaining evening. Their feedback on the survey forms were very positive, complimentary and encouraging (see some of the comments below). The evening ended with a presentation about the cuisine of Curacao, presented by one of the AACAA board members Eliane Emmanuel and a Q&A session followed.(See photo by Cornell Stossel)
Some finger licking food and refreshments was prepared and provided by the President of AACAA, Juanita Joseph and board members Thelma Kingsale and Eliane Emmanuel. Danielle Depasquale 's Not For The Faint Of Heart Brownies was again one of the highlight snacks of the evening.
The audience mingled, enjoyed great company, food, drinks with great background Curacaoan rhythms. Five performers participated in this project.

Comments of some audience participants of CURAZAO: "wonderful, the dancing was excellent, the hosts (actors) were great. " beautiful performance, support is a must", Elma Denham. "I loved this show". "This was beautiful, warm, informative". "It was so great to see how you were able to gather the community together, different age groups, races to enjoy such a wonderful show. THANK YOU SO MUCH", Roberta Schine. "It was a very nice show and reminded us of our island Martinique", Flore Eugene and Liliane Theodose (loyal supporters who attended most of LDT's performances). Photo below from left to right is of Liliane, Flore and Yveline McIntosh, LDT Board Member.

On April 26, Ms. Sint Jago represented LDT at the Scholastic Achievement and Scholarship Award Luncheon of the AACAA at the Real Madrid restaurant in Staten Island (New York). Ms. Sint Jago and Mr. Sherrod donated to this well attended, very important and noteworthy event. This event was dedicated to the hard working, high achieving Antillean and Aruban youth.
It was touching and emotional to observe the gleaming eyes and faces of both the youngsters, caretakers and relatives when they came forward to accept their award. I believe that this is a wonderful annual event and a great opportunity to reward youngsters who deserve it. It is also refreshing to see and hear positive thingsof young people instead of the often negative ones portrayed in the media.
A BIG KUDO to AACAA for their great contributions to the Antillean/Aruban community and to the ones whose love, guidance, encouragement, patience and sacrifice have led to the success of the youngsters. MASHA PABIEN (CONGRATULATIONS) youngsters, parents, caretakers, relatives!

On May 8, Ms. Sint Jago was invited by AACAA, together with the Ambassador of Cabo Verdi, Mr. Antonio Pedro Monteiro Lima, to participate in their final six week Papiamentu class (pictured above, a course they offer annually). The evening was very educational, laid back and fun filled. The instructor and AACAA Board member Eliane Emmanuel (in photo below with Ambassador Lima) wanted Ms. Sint Jago to share her reasons for wanting to research the origin and history of Papiamentu, one of the only non-European languages spoken in the Caribbean; plus reasons studying research done by others before her.

This Ms. Sint Jago culminated into PAPIAMENTU, a dance/drama of pain, struggle, triumph and survival, presented in LDT’s Immigrant Heritage Week Celebration in April 2008; an award was given by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Fund (part of Dept. of Cultural Affairs) to present PAPIAMENTU in LDT’s fall season.
The objective of the evening was to compare the Cape Verdian native language to Papiamentu. The participants of the Papiamentu class were very excited to hear close similarities between both languages but not surprising for the ones who researched the origin and history of Papiamentu; knowing that Cape Verdi is one of the places from which shores part of our African ancestors were dragged from.
Mr. Monteiro Lima was very engaging, entertaining and approachable. He shared and taught us a lot about the history and development of Cape Verdi.
Ms. Sint Jago shared her vision of a reverse Triangle Trade with the loud approval of everyone. She also read a poem in Papiamentu with the participants including Mr. Monteiro Lima trying to figure out the meaning of the words. It was amazing and wonderful to hear that almost everyone was able to understand mostly everything.
Everybody was participating excitedly and an uplifting feeling appeared to radiate from our hearts, connecting us to one another, with "long lost relatives from the Mother land Africa" and plans were made for us all to visit Cape Verdi and the Caribbean islands, to work together, to interchange ideas that can benefit our cultures.

The evening as usual ended with great food, refreshments, taking group shots and socializing with background Curacaoan music.

LDT's Treasurer and Secretary met the Director, Ms. Lynne Hayden-Findley, Co-founder of Chelsea Opera, located in Manhattan and she seemed interested in some future collaboration. She already supported us by attending our last show in April. LDT looks forward to some new possibilities.

We held our 25th Board meeting on May 12, at 440 West 34 Street, hosted by Myrena and Sam. Our newest member, Dr. Hanne Favelukes was voted in. She already showed her commitment by giving LDT a monetary donation and brought some very interesting information on the Open Society Institute (OSI); an organization LDT can try to receive some funding from. Dr. Favelukes believes that some of the works we present appear to match the field of interest of the OSI. (Photo below depicts Dr. Hanne Favelukes and Myrena Sint Jago after the performance "HONRA NAN).

Myrena was invited once more by the AACAA, now by the Vice President Ingrid Charles, to participate with her group the Antillean Dancers at the Caribbean American Heritage Month Celebration. This was held on Tuesday June 9, in the auditorium of City Hall in New York City. She choreographed a combination of the SEU (harvest celebration) and the TAMBU for three dancers and herself and part of a solo ORA DUSHI (Sweet Dushi).
We got some nice compliments and feedback. The evening was a beautiful blend of poetry, music, dance and songs presented by different performers of the various Caribbean islands. Different council men, media people were part of the invited audience. Sam and Myrena had a great time talking and networking while eating some wonderful Caribbean food. We met Donna Lamb of Caribbean Life ( a community newspaper), who covered the event and featured LDT in an article that will be published on June 17.
> First up were the very appealing Antillean Dancers (Aruba), joined by > the effervescent Myrena Sint Jago from Liberata Dance Theatre (Curacao > and Bonaire) who captivated the audience with her radiant smile and > vivacious persona. They performed a harvest celebration and a satirical > piece. (See photos below taken by Donna Lamb of Caribbean Life.

Myrena is very grateful to the Integral Yoga Institute in New York City for providing LDT with rehearsal space for our performances.

Ms. Sint Jago is in the process of writing a proposal for Curacao, with suggestions offered by some of the Board members of the Liberata Dance Theatre Curacao Connection (LDTCC). Hopefully we get the chance to perform and conduct some workshops in Curacao and other islands in the Caribbean. She is also writing one proposal for Holland as suggested by one of our Dutch advisors, Rosalie van Woerkom. Rosalie gave some wonderful suggestions.

Ms. Sint Jago is also in the process of planning for her annual summer trip to Curacao (and perhaps Bonaire) where she will be teaching, writing and choreographing for LDTCC. Throughout the year LDT has stayed in close contact with LDTCC that is keeping us informed with their progress and development.

LDT Performs for The Sixth Annual Immigrant Heritage Week on 4/18/09. Hold This Date.

2009-03-21T04:46:00.000-07:00

“Reclaiming History Reinvigorating Life”
In collaboration with Antillean Aruban Cultural Affairs Association
Present

"CURAZAO = CURACAO"
From The Heart of Curacao to the Heart of New York City with Love

DATE: SATURDAY APRIL 18, 2009
TIME: 8:00PM
PLACE: PEARL STUDIO
500 8TH AVE. 4TH FL. ROOM 410*
(BETWEEN 35TH AND 36TH STREETS)

WRITTEN & CHOREOGRAPHED
BY: MYRENA SINT JAGO
DIRECTED BY:
WARD NIXON

*Wheelchair Accessible

Donation: $15 Includes Refreshments
Contact Information: 212 971-6054
Toll Free 866 249-2437
www.LiberataDT.org

Upcoming Event for Intertnational Women's Month

2009-03-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

Click here to Register Now

“Reclaiming History Reinvigorating Life”
Presents an event for Intertnational Women's Month

Entitled "HONRA NAN"
Celebrating Women Around The World

DATE: SATURDAY MARCH 28, 2009
TIME: 8:00PM
PLACE: PEARL STUDIO
500 8TH AVE. 4TH FL. ROOM 410*
(BETWEEN 35TH AND 36TH STREETS)

WRITTEN & CHOREOGRAPHED
BY: MYRENA SINT JAGO
DIRECTED BY:
WARD NIXON

FEATURING:
TONTO APPIAH, TANIKA BROWN, RON BRUCE,
CECILIA DANINTHE, JUANITA HOWARD,
HALLA PÓRÔARDÓTTIR, COREEN ROBLEDO AND
MYRENA SINT JAGO

*Wheel Chair Accessible
Donation: $15 Includes Refreshments
Contact Information: 212 971-6054
Toll Free 866 249-2437
www.LiberataDT.org

LDT RETROSPECTIVE YEAR 2008

2009-03-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

The year 2008 has been wonderful for LDT. In March the company performed at the Pearl Studio on 35th Street and 8th Avenue. The performance was a combination of the Women’s History Month celebration, honoring women around the world and also celebrating African- American and African-Caribbean history and culture. The evening was named “MUHE” (WOMAN in Papiamentu).

We were chosen by the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Affairs to perform during the Immigrant Heritage Week Celebration. Rehearsal and performance space was donated to us by the 1199 Union in the M’C Graw-Hill building on 42nd Street in Midtown Manhattan. We performed “PAPIAMENTU”, a dance/drama of pain, struggle, adaptation, triumph and healing. We collaborated with two Caribbean organizations, the Antillean Aruban Cultural Affairs Association (AACAA) and Banana Boat Productions.

We had two well-attended performances culminating with question and answer sessions and parties afterwards, sweetened by “Not For The Faint Of Heart” brownies donated by Danielle DePasquale, a loyal friend and supporter of LDT. We also received other donations from the following companies and individuals: wine from 34th Street Winery, Amy’s Bread and beautiful, colorful material from Cherry Hughes. We got wonderful feedback, compliments, suggestions and encouragement from our audiences, either verbally, emails or through written feedback forms. This last was a requirement from the Mayor’s office.

During July and August, the artistic director and treasurer celebrated the official formation of the Liberata Dance Theatre Curacao Connection (LDTCC). The current company became a foundation with their own board members and International Advisors and performers.

LDT collaborated with LDTCC teaching its annual dance/theater workshops. With the support and some guidance of acting instructor and director Laura Quast, we rehearsed and performed two dance/theater pieces. Rehearsal space was donated by Kolegio Chaya Willems and the performance venue by Sentro Kultural Korsou. This is the second year consequently that this last venue was partly donated to LDTCC. Two board meetings were held planning future collaborations including classes, workshops and performances, both in Curacao, New York City, with future performances on the other Caribbean islands, and elsewhere. We also met with Dino Daal, Director of CuracaoTourist Board, to discuss support LDT could possibly receive, to bring the company to Curacao and some future projects we could collaborate on.

The two dance/theater pieces we presented “KONSTRUKSHON” (CONSTRUCTION), depicting the effects of construction with its counter part destruction on Curacao, the Caribbean and the rest of the world and “ELOGIO” (HONOR). Both are works in progress. In the last work we honored a few artists of different genre, the hardworking common men, everyday heroes and sheroes and the ancestors, who trailed the way, the role models who taught Myrena Sint Jago a lot of the history and culture of Bonaire and Curacao, her islands of birth and upbringing. As she puts it “they made me, my today” The performers ranged from age 9 to 62. LDT plans to do a longer version of ELOGIO during the summer of 2009, honoring more people.

In Curacao too we had great support from enthusiastic parents and audience. Ms. Sint Jago also taught dance workshops at a teachers’ academy, at an advanced college preparatory school and children summer camp. She was also interviewed in a television program 'Trai Merdia', in which was she able to share with the viewers information about both LDT and LDTCC and invited them to see our performance the following day at Sentro Kultural Korsou.

During September and October LDT started rehearsing for her fall performances of “PAPIAMENTU” with some new cast members. LDT received a grant from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC), sponsored by the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) and administered by the Manhattan Community Arts Fund (MCAF). Performances were held on two freezing evenings in November at the Joria Productions Theater in Midtown Manhattan. Again we had two well-attended shows with enthusiastic crowds. As is customary to our shows, we had a question and answer session, raffles and a party afterwards. We also had a wonderful group of volunteers coordinated by one of our board members.

Ebony Joann, a well-known Broadway performer, attended the last evening of the shows at the invitation of the light designer, Elliott Lanes. She sent LDT a wonderful email with her congratulations and a promise to contact us with different colleges and universities in the hope that we will be able to perform there. For these last performances we again received different in kind and some monetary donations.

Throughout 2008 Ward Nixon, actor, acting coach and director, skillfully directed our shows.

With great sadness LDT received the sudden and unexpected death from our wonderful friend, cousin and treasurer Hubert (Jubi) Sint Jago in October 2008.

In December Myrena Sint Jago and Samuel Sherrod, LDT’s president/choreographer and secretary/treasurer, visited Curacao for 9 days and met with LDTCC’s board members and International advisors once and discussed the possibility of performing during 2009, the year proclaimed “ANA DI KULTURA” (YEAR OF CULTURE), in Curacao and/or during 2010. Myrena also rehearsed with a few dancers of LDTCC

Myrena Sint Jago and Samuel Sherrod want to thank all its board members, international and national advisors, performers, donors, supporters, volunteers and friends for your continuous support and encouragement.

A special thanks to Material for The Arts, for their continuous support.

LDT INC. PERFORMS at THE JORIA 11/21 & 11/22

2008-10-06T16:57:00.000-07:00

“Reclaiming History Reinvigorating Life”

Presents

“PAPIAMENTU”
A dance/drama of pain, adaptation, survival, triumph, and healing
"This project is made possible in part with public funds from The Manhattan Community Arts Fund, supported by The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and administered by The Lower Manhattan Cultural Council."

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21st, 2008 8:00PM

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 22nd, 2008 8:00PM

Written & Choreographed by MYRENA SINT JAGO; Directed by WARD NIXON
Featuring:
Jennifer Augusto, Deborah Austin, Cecilia Daninthe, Ahmat Jallo, YaYa Kamate,
Ron McBee, Kimberlee Monroe and Coreen Robledo

At JORIA THEATER MAIN STAGE 3rd FLOOR
260 West 36th Street NEW YORK CITY
BETWEEN 7th AND 8th AVENUES

REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED

For more information and tickets

CONTACT: SAM SHERROD
Toll free: 866-249-2437 or 212-971-6054
Or Pay by PayPal
Use Button Above to the right

Donation $20 Advance Sales $25 At The Door

Limited Street Parking with Several Garages in Area

How Can I Support Liberata Dance Theatre?

2008-05-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

The answer is for you to only support an organization that empowers you to help yourself, your career, your business, your family, your friends or your business associates. It's what we call "reciprocal networking" or making deposits into the "good will bank".

Liberata Dance Theatre and its international board members appreciate all your support. Being a performer, coming to our events, being a volunteer, making donations or just referring other people to our web site are all ways we sincerely appreciate your support.

One of the ways we reciprocate our appreciation for your support is through our Liberata Dance Theatre Social Network you are welcome to join. It's free to join and provides a friendly platform for you to meet other Liberata supporters to exchange ideas and resources.

By joining our social network you are provided with your own personal page, which becomes your "virtual home". You can customize your page with different templates. Write about what is happening in your life on your personal page. You can connect with other members or participate in discussion forums. You can upload photos, videos or pictures about your interests or events.

The Liberata Dance Theatre Social Network is a combination of Youtube, LinkedIn, MySpace, Facebook, Yahoo/MSN groups, Flikr and blogs wrapped into an excellent interactive place to hang out. You can post career or business opportunities in the forums. Let other members know about organizations or events you are involved in. Get leads on grant funding opportunities for your organization.

Click here to Join the Liberata Dance Theatre Social Network Now!!

Liberata Dance Theatre Invited to Breakfast at Gracie Mansion

2008-04-14T09:13:00.000-07:00

On Friday April 11th 2008 The Mayor of New York City Michael R. Bloomberg hosted a Breakfast at Gracie Mansion and Photo Op with the mayor for the Partners of this years Immigrant Heritage Week beginning today, Monday April 14th and running through Sunday April 20th. The photo left shows Myrena Sint Jago, LDT President and Artistic Director with Guillermo Linares, Commissioner of Immigrant Affairs. The Photo below is of Samuel Sherrod, Secretary and Treasurer of LDT Inc at the event.

Liberata Dance Theatre is having two (2) performances Saturday April 19th 7:30PM and Sunday April 20th a Mantinee at 2:00PM, Both performances will be followed by a panel Including representatives from The Antillean Aruban Cultural Affairs Association and Banana Boat Productions with Q&A. Refreshments will be served featuring wholesome brownies prepared by Danielle DePasquale, wine and cheese plus soft drinks. There will be an opportunity for networking as well, the space was donated by local 1199 thanks to Maria Sanchez-Martinez. We look forward to seeing all of our board members, friends and supporters. More details on Immigrant Heritage Week..

Global News From Liberata Dance Theatre Board Members', Board of Advisors' & Supporter Countries

2008-04-07T15:40:00.000-07:00

Liberata Dance Theatre is getting ready for "Immigrant Heritage Week" taking place this month in New York City. As we prepare, we wanted to take a minute to say thank you to all our members of the Board of Directors, Advisory Board, Entertainers, Supporters and Contributors. We sincerely appreciate each of you selflessly giving of your time, skills, contributions and donations.

To say Thank You we have added a new function to our web site, as tribute to each of you. Our Global News Section (on the right) provides each contributing member up to the minute news snippets to see what is happening in each other's part of the world. Just click on a country to view the latest news for that geographical location. Each listed country represents our supporting board members and advisors around the world.

Liberata Dance Theatre Performs in New York City's Celebration of 5th Annual Immigrant Heritage Week April 14-20, 2008

2008-03-14T15:59:00.001-07:00

Immigrant Heritage Week is a city-wide celebration that honors the experiences and contributions of immigrants in New York City. Established by Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2004 and coordinated by the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, Immigrant Heritage Week is a rich collection of free or low-cost programs that build cross-cultural understanding between diverse New Yorkers.

“Reclaiming History Reinvigorating Life”

Presents

“PAPIAMENTU”
A dance/drama of pain, adaptation, survival, triumph, and healing

SATURDAY APRIL 19TH, 2008 7:30-9:00PM

SUNDAY MATINEE APRIL 20TH, 2:00-3:30PM

Written & Choreographed by Myrena Sint Jago; Directed by Ward Nixon
At Local 1199’s Staff Lounge 9th Floor
330 West 42nd Street NEW YORK CITY BETWEEN 8th AND 9th AVENUES

REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED

For more information and tickets

CONTACT: SAM SHERROD
Toll free: 866-249-2437 or 212-971-6054

Adults $10 Donation Local 1199 ½ Price, Children Free

"MUHE"

2008-02-22T15:38:00.000-08:00

Liberata Dance Theatre presents “MUHE” In accordance with International Women’s History Month. We honor women from around the world Saturday March 15, 2008 8:00PM located at PEARL STUDIOS 500 8TH AVENUE 4th Floor Between 35th and 36th Streets New York City, Donation: $15. Please hold this date and also look for our "IMMIGRATION WEEK" Performances April 18th, 19th and 20th The venue is to be announced. Please check our website upcoming events for more information or contact Sam Sherrod 212 971-6054, Toll Free: 866 249-2437 or email: curaterra@aol.com.

Curacao Culture and History Videos

2008-01-29T08:32:00.000-08:00

CURACAO - TOURISM

Curacao

January is National Mentoring Month

2008-01-09T04:55:00.000-08:00

We came across an interesting article published by Liberata Dance Theatre Board of Advisor and CEO of iPower Global Solutions, Phyllis Shelton. In the United States, January is celebrated as "National Mentoring Month", along with Martin Luther King day. To the right you can view an excellent video created by Mentoring.org.

Celebrate National Mentoring Month (January 2008)

This month-long outreach campaign focuses national attention on the need for mentors, as well as how each of us—individuals, businesses, government agencies, schools, faith communities and nonprofits—can work together to increase the number of mentors and assure brighter futures for our young people. Mentoring is a structured and trusting relationship . . . Read more

Liberata Dance Theatre 2007 Retrospective

2008-01-03T15:02:00.000-08:00

On this last day of 2007, it is a great day to reflect on the wonderful opportunities and blessings bestowed upon our company. In February the artistic Director, Myrena Sint Jago, had a wonderful opportunity to work with a few very dedicated and talented youngsters in the Gambia (West Africa) on a project that relates to an issue that is affecting some African countries.

The arrangements for rehearsals were made with the youngsters who also came prepared to work knowing their lines and ready to dance. The musicians were also excellent.

In October we had our annual benefit fundraiser/performance at the 1199 Union Mc Graw-Hill building in Manhattan. The program consisted of a performance by some of the members of LDT, wine/cheese and networking. See LTD's Fundraising Event article dated Nov.1,2007 for more information and photos. The audience was also able to enjoy visual images of the beginning stages of the company before it became incorporated with performances both in New York City as well as in the Caribbean and Europe; plus the images of classes, workshop/performances in the above mentioned places.

A highlight were the two summer months, July and August spent on the islands of Curacao by Myrena Sint Jago and Samuel Sherrod, her husband and the Secretary of LDT. The following describes some of the activities that took place:
Ms. Sint Jago taught a dance/theater workshop to a multigenerational group, ages 14 to 60 that culminated into a performance on August 27 in the Sentro Kultural Korsou, SKK. (The Cultural Centrum Curacao). The Board of SKK and LDT held some productive meetings and both parties are looking forward to future collaborations in terms of workshops and performances inside the center, the patio and the garden.

Two other centers donated their spaces for rehearsals, both the Buurt Centrum Koraal Specht (Neighborhood Center Koraal Specht for the second consecutive year) and Kas Di Kultura (Home of Culture); actions very much appreciated by LDT.

Three very productive meetings were also held with the LDT advisers in Curacao and the highlight was the decision to formalize the company in Curacao, naming it Liberata Dance Theatre Curacao (or Caribbean) Connection (LDTCC). The principal members were nominated, among them Greta Trapenberg, as the President. She brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned actress and a recently retired primary school Principal with different contacts both in the theater world and the general public that could help LDT with its mission.

Another contact was the Principal of the International High school Curacao, Mr. Sever who also allowed a group of his students to perform in one of LDT's projects; one that deals with the condition of Mother Earth. In this piece the youngsters in a variety of languages voiced their opinions regarding our responsibility for the survival of our planet.

One of our advisors, Jeanne Henriquez brought Ms. Sint Jago in contact with two elders who gave their consent to be video taped for an upcoming project of LDT. They also are willing to perform in future pieces. Ms. Henriquez, a Director of the "Museo Tula" (Tula Museum), also discussed the possibility of LDT performing at her institution.

On the island of Bonaire other opportunities were presented in the form of meetings with two people who are active in the artistic scene; in the community itself and with some local artists.

Like Henk Roozedaal who lives in Bonaire and painted this painting entitled "Zen and the art of snorkeling" 4ft X 4ft Acrylic on marine plywood which is on display in New York at our corporate suite on 34th Street and is for sale by the artist with a portion of the proceeds offered as a donation to Liberata Dance Theatre by the artist. All by all it was a very worthwhile summer with great potentials for LDT, Inc.

Broadway Maybe Closed, But Good Harlem Theatre is Alive and Well in Manhattan

2007-11-19T04:29:00.000-08:00

Although the stagehand strike has put the breaks on Broadway Theatre, in New York City, some Liberata Dance Theatre (LDT) board members spent a wonderful afternoon at the theatre in upper Manhattan. Written by Playwright Yusef Salaam and directed by David Sheppard, "The Devil and Elija Muhammed" opened yesterday with outstanding performances presented by the H.A.D.LE.Y. Players.

This excellent play was Attended by LDT Founders Sam Sherrod and Myrena Sint Jago-Sherrod, along with board member Carl E. Reid, publisher of the Savvy Intrapreneur newsletter blog.

Eldon Bullock gave a very compelling performance emulating detailed mannerisms, in the lead role of The Honorable Elijah Muhammed. Eldon brought inciteful perspective, with his role, in vividly presenting the inner turmoils experienced by The Honorable Elijah Muhammed, including his unspoken respect for Malcolm X, since their split.

The entire play covers 2 winter days in the life of The Honorable Elijah Muhammed, using his office as a backdrop to give the audience a different perspective of the inner workings of The Nation of Islam at that time.

Overall, the timing and excecution of the various characters continuously engaged the audience. The actors provided thought provoking performances with pointed questions by Ali Abdullah (played by Tom Gordon), being demurely defensive when Sister Maryum (Angela Sims) has her integrity is questioned, office procedures being subversively disrupted by Samuel X (Albert Eggleston III), conscientious attention to security details by Captain Raymond Shariff (Tom Martin) and deflecting allegations of mistrust by Reverend Lillian Jones (Georgi Page).

The sleeper role of Washington X was powerfully brought to life with an excellent performance by Ron Wilks.

"The Devil and Elijah Muhammed" is a must see for serious theatre afficianados to put on their "to do" list before the last performance on Decmeber 9, 2007.

------------------------------
Select performances of "The Devil and Elijah Muhammed" run until December 9, 2007 on Friday and Saturday at 7:30PM - Sunday at 4:00PM
*** No Performances Thanksgiving Weekend ***

Location:
North Presbyterian Church
529 155th Street (between Broadway and Amsterdam Avennue)

Tickets:
$20 General Admission
$18 for Seniors / Students

About the H.A.D.L.E.Y. Players
Founded by Gertrude Jeannette, the mission of the Harlem Artists Development League Especially For You, a.k.a. The H.A.D.L.E.Y. Players, is to present professional theatrical productions, to provide artists who are not regularly employed an opportunity to sharpen their crafts and to develop new talent. Our 365 performance will reflect decades of achieving these goals.

Call The H.A.D.L.E.Y. Players at: (212) 368-9314 or (212) 926-0281.
For more information email hadleyplayers@yahoo.com

LDT's Fundraising Event

2007-11-01T15:40:00.000-07:00

Contact: Sam Sherrod
Liberata Dance Theatre
Phone: (866) 249-2437
Fax: (866) 249-2437
Curaterra@aol.com
www.LiberataDT.org
For Immediate Release
November 1, 2007:

Through high impact performances an ordinary evening of wine, cheese and networking produced an extraordinary awareness of social, environmental and global issues affecting the world community, Liberata Dance Theatre held its 1st annual fundraiser in the penthouse of Local 1199/SEIU in the McGraw-Hill Building. The Liberata Dance Theatre’s U.S. board of directors hosted this excellent event on Tuesday, October 23, 2007.

The atmosphere was charged with suspense. Initially attendees seemed not to know what to expect from what appeared to be an ordinary fund-raising event. A combination of the exciting view of the New York City night skyline, noshing food provided by sponsors Murray’s Cheese located at 254 Bleecker Street New York, NY 10014 Amy’s Bread located at 75 Ninth Avenue and wine from The 34th Street Winery 460 West 34th Street, synergized by the outstanding performances by the Liberata performers, changed everyone’s outlook and brought joy and expressions of exhilaration as evidenced by the following statements:

"I had a wonderful time! It was an enlightening experience to feel the rhythm of the drums, to hear the emotion in the performers voices, and to watch the stories unfold as they were being told through the dances. Liberata made me a believer and I will definitely attend the next performance!" stated Dr. Akim Jones, Co-founder of Urban Oasis Spa located in White Plains, NY. Urban Oasis Spa also sponsored the event by donating gift certificates.

The high impact performance at this exclusive “invitation only” event was directed by Ward Nixon, a seasoned Actor, Director and Acting Coach. Ward’s acting experience was immediately obvious. He captivated the audience with his story telling ability, while playing the part of an investigative journalist reporting on the inequalities of the human condition throughout the world.

“Thank you for the privilege of experiencing the Liberata Dance Theater. I was overcome by the joyful message of "oneness" and reverence for our environment." said Marion Green, Producer of The Lush Life, a cable television show that highlights the accomplishments of people in the Montclair N.J. community. Marion was also a volunteer at the event.

The master of ceremonies, Carl E. Reid, CEO/Founder of NetTECH Systems and publisher of the Savvy Intrapreneur newsletter blog, introduced the other Liberata U.S. board members Rose Crayton, retired adult educator and CUNY Adjunct, Carolynn See Yuen, Liberata performer and Entertainment Manager, Yveline Mcintosh, CEO of Yveline’s Travel Services, James M. Ernest an actor of stage, screen and television who also works in the human services field as a recreation therapist.

Jason Thigpen, Co-Owner of J and L Goods stated "Thank you so much for inviting Leandra and I to the LDT event. The night was full of culture, great people, and networking. I know J and L Goods will benefit tremendously from the connections we made and the information learned through LDT’s performance. We look forward to attending the next event."

Activities throughout the evening were deftly facilitated through the seamless collaborative efforts of volunteers, who professionally greeted attendees and provided a program, James M. Ernest, Liberata board member and wine server, Danielle Tyler, videographer volunteered her services, Phyllis Shelton, CEO of iPower Global Solutions was the hospitality host, insuring attendees were comfortable, other volunteers include: Althea Bryan, Sharon Quinones, Michelle Chery, Denworh Billy, CEO of Bolt Consulting Solutions LLC and Carl Schmidt who is an accountant for the state of California.

Additional sponsors who contributed to the door prizes were iPower Global Solutions, Jason and Leandra of J and L Gifts and Materials for the Arts, New York City Dept. of Cultural Affairs/NYC Dept. of Sanitation/NYC Dept. of Education.

About Liberata Dance Theatre
As a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, Liberata Dance Theatre, Inc. was formed to provide dance and theatre works with themes created mainly from Caribbean, African and African-American rich history and culture to the people in the U.S.A., The Caribbean Islands and international countries. LDT presents unique "high impact" works, which raise awareness of various social, environmental and global issues that are affecting everyone.

Liberata Dance Theatre is the brainchild of President and Artistic Director, Myrena Sint Jago, who co-founded this not-for-profit organization with husband and business partner, Sam Sherrod, who is also secretary and treasurer on Liberata Dance Theatre’s U.S. board of directors.

Tel: (866) 249-2437
Email: Curaterra@aol.com
Web: www.LiberatDT.org

"An Evening of Wine, Cheese and Networking" FUNDRAISING EVENT

2007-09-26T07:18:00.000-07:00

Liberata Dance Theatre is hosting a fundraiser at The McGraw Hill Building 330 West 42nd St. 33rd floor Penthouse on Tuesday October 23, 2007 7:00PM to 9:00PM. Tickets are available for a $25.00 donation. Use the donate button (lower down on the right side of page) and we will place you on our paid guest list or call 866 249-2437 and leave a message with your contact information. You can also email us at: curaterra@aol.com.

The Seeds of LDT

2007-07-08T18:37:00.000-07:00

Although newly incorporated, the seeds for LDT have been planted 30-plus years ago. As a solo artist, Ms. Sint Jago, has received scholarships, grants, taught, volunteered, led dance workshops, choreographed and performed nationally and internationally. Her choreographies usually deal with themes from the Caribbean, African and African American's rich history and culture through dance, music, song, art, drama and poetry. Ms. Sint Jago yearned to formalize a forum where the lack, the "black hole" of her colonial upbringing on the island of Curacao can be satisfied through multi-media productions. This lack or deficiency consisted of historical and cultural vagueness, emptiness, often untruths that resulted in numerous unanswered questions and confusion for which she embarked on a continuous search for clarification. The population she worked with was a variety of age groups, professionals and non- professionals. Some of the organizations she worked with are: Arts Connection, Bronx Council on the Arts, Hospital Audiences Inc. (HAI), Department of Parks and Recreation, Young Audiences, Prins Bernhard Foundation, Service to the Aging, Northside Center for Child Developement.

Her works have been performed at the La Mama Theater, La Mama Annex, The Asian Society, 92 Street Y, The Evolving Theater, The Billie Holiday Theater, the HAI headquarters, in Barbados, Centro Pro Arte, De Tempel and Sentro di Kultura (Curacao), Cultural Centers Theaters (Aruba and Bonaire), Utrechtse Stadschouwburg (Holland) and at different High Schools and hospitals' auditoriums.

by Myrena Sint Jago President & Artistic Director
Liberata Dance Theatre 7/7/07

LDT Welcomes Izaline Callister to New York

2007-05-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

Izaline Callister masterfully weaves together the traditional music of her native island, Curacao with Afro-Latin sounds and jazz. Influences from Africa, Europe and more recently America, have spawned an electrifying new cocktail that ranges from vibrant lust to darkest melancholy. Izaline Callister's performances as a barefoot diva with real stage presence are unforgettable. Her compelling, multi-faceted voice - whether in ballads or in lively songs - cannot fail to touch anyone who appreciates great vocal music.

The Beat hailed Izaline Callister as one of the "irresistable divas of the Caribbean."

In fliers currently being distributed, the Antillean / Aruban Cultural Affairs Association, Inc. also welcomes Izaline Callister to New York City.

Izaline Callister will be performing with her band, including legendary percussionist
Pernell Saturnino in New York City.

Tuesday, June 19, 2007
at 7:30PM

Joe's Pub at the Public Theater
425 Lafayette Street, NYC NY. 10003, Manhattan, NY
(click here for map - btwn East 4th Street and Astor Place East Vilage)

Admission: $15.00 at the door
Click here to Purchase tickets online

Driections: #6 train to Astor Place at Lafayette Street and 4th Avenue or N / R / W trains to 8th Street New York University & Broadway (walk one block over to Lafayette St.

View video of Izaline Callister LIVE in Mexico

Free Money For College All Year Round

2007-04-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

"Paying for College Student Resource Guide" is a phenomenal resource for finding college scholarship money, published Courtesy of Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard. It is updated once a year. This is a very cool resource, because it lists scholarships, internships, fellowships, books, and websites. It even provides the the listings by Monthly deadlines. This is an invaluable tool for planning a year round strategy to apply for "free college money"

On pages 5, 20 and 30 are opportunites to apply for funding, if you are a student interested in pursuing theater or drama arts related curriculums.

Read more . . .

Networking For Success at ETP Network Event

2007-03-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: Sam Sherrod - Media Relations
Tel: 866-249-2437

"ETP Network Social defines the true art of Networking"

New York, NY, March 30, 2007: An excellent networking social was hosted by ETP Network at Mustang Harrys on March 28, 2007. In attendance was Liberata Dance Theatre (LDT) board members, Sam Sherrod and Carl E. Reid. Accompanying the board members was LDT business advisor, Phyllis Shelton, who is also CEO & Founder of iPower Global Solutions and event planner for ETP Network.

Mike Canfora, ETP Network Event Coordinator, greeted attendees with a friendly smile and made cordial introductions, while registering everyone. "Despite some career challenges, my association with ETP Network and attending the early morning Career Boot Camp conference calls with Rod Colon has had a huge impact in keeping me motivated during my career transition" stated Mike Canfora.

Rod Colon, CEO & Founder of ETP Network, extended a warm welcome to each of the 35 people in attendance. Rod set the stage for this awesome event with his introductory statement "ETP Network was established as a unique family type organization that provides 1,200 active members with access to 10,000 global contacts who sincerely support each other's success through reciprocity based networking exchanges of business opportunities".

This was a very cool event. I plan to share this with other people who may benefit from future ETP Network events" stated Sam Sherrod, Co-Founder & Treasurer of Liberata Dance Theatre.

Guest speaker Carl E. Reid, CEO & Founder of NetTECH Systems Reid & Associates, Inc. and publisher of Savvy Intrapreneur, opened with a jaw dropping statement "Networking does not work". After what seemed to be the longest deafening pause, which allowed attendees to catch their breath, Mr. Reid proceeded to edify ETP Network by reinforcing its principles of how successful networkers really achieve success through reciprocal networking. "Networking will only work successfully for people who become selfless by being more interested in what other people want, instead of being selfish in pushing our own business agendas", is what Carl expounded on throughout his well received presentation.

Frank Mannarino, CEO & Founder of Emoshuns.com emphatically stated " I walked away from this event a with a better perspective on how to properly network. I learned that my business can grow faster by being more interested in helping people succeed in their business, instead of focusing on my immediate business goals".

As the event came to a close, all attendees displayed a new found excitement in continuing their "helping" conversations. "It's an honor to be part of ETP Network. The atmosphere at this event was electric in seeing seasoned ETP Network members reaching out to new members and making first time networkers feel comfortable" stated Phyllis Shelton, CEO & Founder of iPower Global Solutions.

Liberata DT Expands into Gambia

2007-02-15T03:57:00.000-08:00

For Immediate Release
Contact: Sam Sherrod - Media Relations
Tel: 866-249-2437
"New York City theatre company goes global by reaffirming its community programs in Africa"
New York, NY, February 15, 2007: Liberata Dance Theatre board members Myrena Sint jago and Sam Sherrod leave today from New York City for a 1 week program expansion in Gambia. They will be meeting with Liberata Dance Theatre international advisor Jalika Suso.

Known officially as "The Gambia", it gained its independence from the UK in 1965. Geographically surrounded by Senegal, it formed a short-lived federation of Senegambia between 1982 and 1989. In 1991 the two nations signed a friendship and cooperation treaty, but tensions have flared up intermittently since then.

Yahya A. J. J. JAMMEH led a military coup in 1994 that overthrew the president and banned political activity. A new constitution and presidential elections in 1996, followed by parliamentary balloting in 1997, completed a nominal return to civilian rule. JAMMEH has been elected president in all subsequent elections, including most recently in late 2006.

Public Service Announcement: DST Starts March 11, 2007

2007-02-14T13:11:00.000-08:00

No your eyes are not playing tricks on you. March 11, 2007 starts daylights savings time a few weeks early.

On Monday August 8, 2005 President Bush signed into law a broad energy bill (Energy Policy Act of 2005) that will extend Daylight Saving Time by four weeks in 2007. Read more . . .

HSA Presents a Play Within a Play

2007-02-05T03:58:00.000-08:00

New York, NY, February 2, 2007: Some members of the Liberata Dance Theatre (LDT) board had the opportunity to attend the sneak preview of a new Off Broadway play "Marat/Sade". Despite the steady down pour of cold rain, it was a standing room only, packed house for this provocative theatrical performance. In attendance was LDT board member Carl E.Reid and LDT business advisor Phyllis Shelton, who is CEO of the public relations company iPower Global Solutions, along with Noel Reid, CEO of the premiere New York City classic car dealership TNTGotCars.com, who was also accompanied by his wife Brenda Reid.

Housed inside the Harlem School of the Arts the play was presented by the Classical Theatre of Harlem. A revival of Peter Weiss's play, it is Directed by Christopher McElroen. "Marat/Sade" previously won the Tony Award for Best Play in 1966.

Set inside the backdrop of an insane asylum, "Marat/Sade" is almost entirely a play within a play set after the French Revolution. The main story takes place on July 13th, 1808 after the French Revolution; however, the play directed by the Marquis de Sade within the story takes place during the revolution, in the middle of 1793, culminating with the assassination of Jean-Paul Marat (which took place on July 13th, 1793).

"This thought provoking play challenges all the senses. I was on the edge of my seat during the entire performance." said Carl E. Reid, CEO of NetTECH Systems and publisher of the Savvy Intrapreneur newsletter.

The audience is immediately drawn into this well acted play, as the seats are placed within the asylum. There is an almost an eerie feeling the audience cannot escape until the asylum guards release them. From beginning to end the entire cast engages the audience to pay attention and question democracy as a way of governing people. The play touches on the reasoning of war, can one person alone make changes to their world and what is the affect on the disproportional distribution of wealth among people. Who is really in charge in governing people?

This play is definitely a very different "must see" theatrical performance.

Marat/Sade opens February 15 to March 11, 2007
Tickets can be purchased through NYTheatre.com.

Bon Bini - Welcome

2007-01-21T08:47:00.000-08:00

As Executive Director, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Liberata Dance Theatre, Myrena Sint jago-Sherrod projects much enthusiasm in educating people of the little known culture in the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) located in the Caribbean Sea. Many of the theatrical performances presented by Liberata Dance Theatre originate from Myrena's experiences growing up in in her home country of Curacao.

An essential part of any culture, similar to various regions throughout the United States is language. Papiamentu is predominately a spoken language among the local people of Curaçao, Bonaire, and Aruba. The official language is Dutch, and the written Papiamentu is limited to some local newspapers and literature. Also the schooling system is Dutch, and people typically don't get any formal training in their language. Read more . . .