Is it Thursday yet? An inside look at Jenn Freeman’s latest dance performance
“Is It Thursday Yet?” is an original theatrical-dance performance featuring live music, dance, and home video footage that explores Jenn Freeman’s perspective of life after being diagnosed with autism at age 33. The themes of this production, collaboration, artistry, reflection and self discovery, explore the freeing sensation of dance and the complex mind of Freeman.
Ilaan Mazzini, the director of programs and activations for BroadStage, explains what themes stood out to her in “Is It Thursday Yet?” and what the most important elements of a successful performance are from her perspective.
“Well, I am a dancer. I come from a dance background, so anytime I see someone sharing their story through movement it’s very enticing, and you know, I think BroadStage is really paying attention and is interested in topics that are on top of people's minds or are in conversation, whether that's social justice pieces or neurodiversity, and you know, how we as a community can be inclusive and how that can be represented on stage.”
In regard to the most important element of a successful performance, Mazzini said, “that what they’re hoping to share lands with the audience, but at the same time gives space for the audience to have their own experience.” She added, “You know, I have a long history as a dancer, and I think this piece has a bravery to it, a real full embodied experience.”
One of the most rewarding moments for Freeman is being able to stand on stage and take up space truly as herself – that taking up space as yourself can be a meaningful act. This Performance is so powerful for Jenn because it’s an outlet for her to be vulnerable through an art form she loves. Freeman is 38 years old and is finding herself the most empowered she’s ever been, and that whole process is extremely exciting for her.
When talking about the challenges with being diagnosed, Freeman said, “I am very aware of the challenges of finding an adult who's getting diagnosed because most of the psychologists and practitioners are working with children, and all of the testing for autism has been created for children, so I’m aware of those hurdles.” She added, “I got lucky because when I was watching a film, I had the epiphany that I might be autistic.”
For her favorite part of the creative process, Freeman said, “I think for me it’s having something to focus on because usually my processes are– can be years. I mean, the process of making the show is years– almost three years. So I think just, like, the deep dive, I really love that. I love, like, stepping foot into something and having the like, the pull to know that you’re going in the right direction, but you never really know where you’re headed.” Freeman added, “I just love being inside that journey of discovery alongside a group of people. I feel like we’re all in it together and we’re changing together and we’re learning together.”
When it comes to letting spontaneous moments happen in the creative process, Freeman said, “I really value play, and I value spontaneity for sure. Some of my favorite moments and work have been born from a place of spontaneity. I think for me, it’s a tricky push-pull because like, I do also value structure and boundaries. It’s like a fine line, right?”
“Is it Thursday Yet?” is a performance that inspires anticipation. One that focuses on the freedom of expression, movement, and creativity that follows Jenn Freeman’s life. A story that other neurodivergent people could find comfort in, knowing that they’re not alone in finding themselves. The use of colors, sounds, and movement that is effortlessly intoxicating and rich.
“Is it Thursday Yet?” premieres Oct. 3, and goes until Oct. 5. Every show is at 7:30 p.m. with a run time of 75 minutes. To purchase tickets, visit the BroadStage website: https://broadstage.org/tickets-shows/calendar/is-it-thursday-yet/