DAVIDS TO COMPOSE DELAWARE BALLET

 http://www.wfyi.org/longJourneyHome.asp

A new hour-long ballet, Mekinges, focused on the Lenape (Delaware) sojourn in Indiana territory has chosen Brent Michael Davids as the orchestra composer. The ballet is part of a multifacited project that includes the Long Journey Home documentary and companion book, the ballet, an hour-long PBS dance special, and the historical celebration of Delaware's historic trail. Part of the story includes Mekinges, the daughter of Lenape chief William Anderson, and William Conner, who traded with Indians. They were married in 1800. In 1820, with Delaware removal from Indiana to Missouri territory, Mekinges and their six children left with the tribe. Conner stayed and became a multi-millionaire. The ballet is produced as a collaboration between WFYI, Eiteljorg Museum, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Indianapolis Museum of Art, Conner Prairie Living History Museum, Indiana American Indian Theatre Company, Dance Kaliedoscope and the IUPUI School of Journalism People of the Turtle Project.

 Congratulations Brent!