Repertoire
Rainbow Crow
Rainbow Crow has been adapted into choreography by Navaji, in honor and reverence to its origins in the heritage of the Native peoples of the America’s. The origins of “Rainbow Crow” are attributed to Bill "Whippoorwill" Thompson, principal chief of the Eastern Lenapé Nations, but it has been expressed that this may have ultimately been derive from a Tsalagi [Cherokee] story known as "The First Fire".
About the Work
A rainbow crow is asked to fly to the heavens and bring fire so everyone can survive the growing winter cold of the Pleistocene [Ice Age]. Crow's selfless act of heroism for the community comes at a high cost, as it loses its song, and its feathers turn black after breathing in too much smoke. The realization of this sacrifice doesn’t register until Crow returns and experiences the reaction of the animals. Crow’s spirit is lifted as he is thanked for his sacrifice and the great sky spirit gives Crow the gift of freedom for his altruism.
Soon man will appear on the Earth, take the fire and be master of all, but you… Man will never hurt you, capture you, or value your feathers because your rainbow colors are now black, you taste of smoke and your voice is now crackly and hoarse. But this is your protection and your black feathers will shine and reflect all the colors. If you look closely you will see.
True altruism often asks us to bear hardship, but such acts enrich our spirits and bless us in ways we may not foresee. May mankind embody the spirit of Crow’s altruism.
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Credits
Choreography Navaji David Nava
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