Poet Frank Higgins and actress Victoria Lynne Barbee have joined performers participating in the next Dancing Word performance on April 5^th and 6^th.

The Dancing Word is a unique art form that combines dance and poetry to expand both. While the concept of combining dance and poetry is not new, it is being used in new and meaningful ways in its Kansas City form. The Westport Center for the Arts began experimenting with the form during the pandemic lockdown, but has expanded and continued its performances as Dancing Word grows in popularity.

The next performance is scheduled for  April 5 at 7 p.m. and April 6 at 2.p.m. The theme for this performance is “Truth: Do you believe what you perceive or perceive what you believe?”  It explores the process of understanding and digesting presented information, including objects, relationships and events.

Poems include “A Poison Tree” by William Blake, “The New Speakers” by Gloria Anzeldua,  and “Brave and Startling Truth” by Maya Angelou. Local poet Glenn Stewart has contributed three poems, Truth,” “Perception,” and Darling Starling.”

Nora Burkitt-Davis has recently taken over chorography for the Dancing Word. Dancers will include Kosha Chandler, Kyleigh Harm, Lauren Thompson, and Ashley Ebner.

Guest poet Frank Higgins is a playwright and poet who lives in Kansas City.  He has published two books of poetry, and two books of haiku, most recently “on Earth as it is,” published by KC’s Spartan Press. His play “The Sweet By ‘n’ By” has appeared across the country. Another play, “Black Pearl Sings!”  is one of the most produced plays in the country.

Victoria Lynne Barbee, who has been acting and  singing professionally for 25 years, joins the cast. She began singing in her father’s church more than 50 years ago. She is co-founder of the urban youth theater and the assistant internship director at The Learning Club.

The Dancing Word has moved to a new location at the Center for Spiritual Living, 1014 W 39th Street, Kansas City, MO 64111. Admission is free although donations are welcome.