Living in “Turbulence”

Reflections on a Therapeutic Theatre Performance

Authors

  • Jasmine Nicole Edwards Music Therapy, New York University, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15845/voices.v21i1.3165

Keywords:

BIPOC, Black, music therapy, creative arts, theatre, therapeutic performance, affinity space, performance activism, placemaking

Abstract

This paper explores a Black music therapist’s experience within Turbulence, a therapeutic performance piece developed by Black and brown creative arts therapists and theatre artists in the Greater New York City area. The author shares her own personal experiences and reactions as a participant, process actor, musician, and music therapist within this group process. An examination of the integration of music within the performance will also be shared, particularly in terms of how certain music traditions can be used to elevate the expression of those with identities that have been historically marginalized. Additionally, this paper explores how social identity-based affinity groups supported by a creative process can decrease feelings of isolation and bolster a sense of empowerment amongst BPOC-identifying creative arts therapists.

Author Biography

Jasmine Nicole Edwards, Music Therapy, New York University, USA

Jasmine Edwards is a music therapist working within a pediatric hospital in New York City. Jasmine has a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from Florida State University, and her master’s degree in music therapy from New York University. She has experience working in private practice, outpatient, school-based, and medical settings, and is trained in NICU-MT, First Sounds: Rhythm, Breath, Lullaby, and Austin Vocal Psychotherapy. Jasmine has a vested interest in bringing discussions of power, privilege, and oppression into music therapy training and education. She also serves as an adjunct faculty member at Howard University, New York University, and Nazareth College. Jasmine identifies as a Black woman.

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Picture of the author Jasmine Nicole Edwards

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Published

2021-04-20

How to Cite

Edwards, J. N. (2021). Living in “Turbulence”: Reflections on a Therapeutic Theatre Performance. Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.15845/voices.v21i1.3165

Issue

Vol. 21 No. 1 (2021): Special Multidisciplinary Issue on Black Aesthetics & the Arts Therapies

Section

Essays

License

Copyright (c) 2021 Jasmine Nicole Edwards

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