Machete by Nadia Calmet

Performed by the Afro-Peruvian Experience, Machete is based on the traditional “Festejo,“ dance, and highlights traditional instruments such as the Cajon, the Cajita, and the Quijada de Brron (donkey’s jaw). The work celebrates African-descended ancestors in Peru who, with a “Machete” (knife) in hand, fought for their freedom. Nadia Calmet, the executive director of the Afro-Peruvian Experience, is committed to the visibility and sharing of Afro-Pervian cultural traditions through theater, dance, and music. Part of Dance in the Districts, a DCA initiative produced in partnership with the Los Angeles Dance Workers Coalition. Dance in the District awarded commissions to 22 panel-selected dancers and choreographers who reside or work in Council Districts 2, 3, 8, and 10 to create online performances for this pilot program. As part of the program award, applicants produced, filmed and presented a 1 to 3-minute virtual, online performance piece. Performances were produced, presented, and filmed in the Council District that the artist is affiliated with, and highlight a location within that district that holds value to the dancer such as a park, street, business, home, or public space, among others. Each award consists of a $1,000 artist’s fee and a $1,000 production fee. Production costs include: rehearsing, costuming, videography, collaborators, marketing, administration, and other costs related to the production including public space permits, equipment, or venue rentals.