Georgetown's Davis Performing Center is Celebrating DC's Vibrant Go-Go Music

Washington, D.C. has always been a city rich in culture, diversity, and a sense of community. For those familiar with the city's history, it's no secret that go-go music is an integral part of the local culture. This unique genre, characterized by its infectious rhythms and lively performances, has been the heartbeat of the city for decades. Now, Georgetown University's Theater and Performance Studies Program, in collaboration with the Black Theater Ensemble, is proud to present "Together We Go-Go," a yearlong celebration that pays tribute to the vibrant go-go culture and the spirit of togetherness that it represents.

Soyica Colbert, a prominent scholar in African American Studies and Theater and Performance Studies, describes go-go as more than just music; it's a cultural phenomenon that encompasses music, dance, and the transformation of spaces into culturally specific places. This definition captures the essence of go-go, which has been a driving force in the cultural landscape of Washington, D.C.

The centerpiece of this yearlong celebration is the world-premiere of "Making the Go-Go Band," a groundbreaking production set to open in Gonda Theater this Fall. This one-of-a-kind experience combines elements of a concert, storytelling, teach-in, documentary, and interactive game show, creating a unique fusion of "go-go meets theater." The show takes the audience on a journey through the history of go-go, paying tribute to key figures in the genre, and educating the audience on how to engage in go-go call and response, an essential aspect of this musical style. But that's not all; each performance also features an impromptu virtual jam session with musicians from around the world, including Japan and Ghana.

"Making the Go-Go Band" is not just a production; it's a collaborative effort involving a diverse group of individuals. Georgetown students, some of D.C.'s finest go-go musicians, and D.C. public school students have come together to create this immersive experience. The project is led by Charles "Shorty Corleone" Garris, a go-go musician, producer, and educator, along with Natsu Onoda Power, a professor of Theater and Performance Studies who has received two Helen Hayes awards for her work. This is not their first collaboration; they previously worked together on "Wind Me Up Maria!: A Go-Go Musical" in 2016.

In addition to the stage production, a new dramaturgy and photojournalism exhibition titled "I am Going to the Go-Go, The Clearing, Part II" will be launched in the Davis Performing Arts Center lobby. Curated by Soyica Colbert, this exhibition offers a comprehensive history of go-go music and its profound connection to D.C.'s black communities. It showcases rare photographs from the MLK library and personal collections of longtime D.C. residents and go-go musicians, making it the most extensive dramaturgical exhibit to be displayed at the Davis Center in 18 years. The exhibition opens in mid-October and runs through May 2024, welcoming all visitors to explore the rich history of go-go culture in the city.

Natsu Onoda Power, the Artistic Director of the Davis Performing Center, emphasized the collaborative and transformative nature of "Making the Go-Go Band." The production is the result of the combined efforts of seasoned go-go musicians, Georgetown students, D.C. public school students, and musicians participating remotely from Japan and Ghana, along with a dedicated team of theater designers and production staff.

Onoda Power also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from various communities, including musicians, activists, journalists, scholars, educators, and fans, who generously contributed their knowledge, expertise, and labor to make this season a reality.

"Together We Go-Go" is more than just a celebration of go-go music; it's a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and the enduring spirit of Washington, D.C. It's a journey through the history of a unique musical genre that has left an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of the celebration, experience the vibrancy of go-go, and explore the rich history of D.C.'s musical genre. 

For tickets and more information, visit the Eventbrite link here: Making The Go-Go Band Tickets

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