By Jean Noel Mugabo
Somewhere elsewhere, an original multidimensional musical focused on the challenges and joys of the immigrant experience, will premiere at the Westbrook Performing Arts Center this Thursday, March 23. Commissioned by Portland Ovations, the story, book, and lyrics, are the creation of Kerem Durdag. Andy Happel wrote the music; Linda L. Nelson is the director. The work combines visual art elements, such as animation and video montage, with live performances, including 27 original songs. The music spans a variety of styles, with a foundation in Turkish, Pakistani, and western music. All music is performed live by Happel and his major label rock band, Thanks to Gravity.
“I believe that the power of storytelling through the arts can bring people together, and promote understanding and acceptance, particularly in a society grappling with questions of inclusion and diversity.”
— Kerem Durdag
The story centers on the arrival of a Turkish immigrant in the U.S., and follows their life journey, including a love story, as well as confrontations with racism and xenophobia. Along with depicting such struggles as missing one’s birth culture, and facing racism and xenophobia – the story also brings out the joys of becoming a world citizen, and coming to understand what it truly means to be a human being. A secret threaded through the story adds an element of mystery and intrigue.
Durdag has been working on the story for close to four years; some elements resemble his own life journey. Durdag’s parents are Turkish; he grew up in Pakistan under a dictatorship; he emigrated to the U.S. and built a life here. “This background gave me a unique perspective on life, and a deep appreciation for the value of freedom and democracy,” he told Amjambo Africa in an exclusive interview.
Durdag hopes that immigrants will attend the performance. This is a story that reflects their experiences and struggles, he said, and emphasized that this musical is not just for privileged audiences, but for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
Durdag believes that the power of storytelling through the arts can bring people together, and promote understanding and acceptance, particularly in a society grappling with questions of inclusion and diversity. Somewhere elsewhere aims to empower other immigrants to share their unique stories and experiences. But above all somewhere elsewhere promises an evening of entertainment.
“This is not a regular musical like people are used to. This is not like going and hearing Broadway stuff… this is very new and very different. Think of a cross between Hamilton – which is a work of genius, a work of art – and the Book of Mormon, but with a rock and roll concert!”
The evening is an opportunity to connect with others, have fun, and celebrate diversity.
“By bringing their souls into the arena, the audience can engage with the performance and become part of the larger fabric that connects us all. So – let loose, holler, and enjoy the show – and hopefully, leave with a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling and the importance of acceptance and empathy.”
Tickets to somewhere, elsewhere are available at: portlandovations.org
