Mi Segundo Dia

Where to begin?

This morning I saw a performance at Nuestra Gente, from group of students around the age I'll be teaching; some in high school, and some studying at Universities. It was difficult to understand everything porque todo estaba en espanol, pero their performance was really great to see. It dove right into the country's political dynamic via a specific incident from its history. A map of Colombia was created with the colors of its flag in sand on the stage, and over the course of the performance the sand was moved about, obscuring the image, and eventually a bucket of blood was poured onto an actor, leaving a large stain, una mancha de sangre, in the center of the obscured image of the country, quite clearly representing the permanent impact of violence on the country. I was struck by the dedication on the part of many of the actors, as well as how strong and visceral many of the choices were. The director would often have realistic action occur with little dialogue; a strong and risky choice, really allowing the scene created to be felt. There was a talk back following the production, and this being a special presentation, the audience was not large. I felt like there was quite an expectation for me to ask questions. I eventually asked one, spoke with some of the performers after shortly, and me and Juan spent a bit talking to Jorge who runs the place. But, wow is it frustrating to be so interested in what someone has to say and to be unable to hear all of it. I guess 'we all make the bed we must lie in,' or something like that. I certainly hope to return to Nuestra Gente during my time here.

For this week, I'm staying at Taller Siete, an artist's workshop, and a very cool place to be. Everyone here makes me feel very welcome. Comemos una cena rica la noche pasada. In addition to Taller Siete y su amigos, there are two artists from Ireland here working for the Colombo as well, working with Los Amigos de los Limitados Fisicos among other places. Houses are designed very differently here. The main area of the house is essentially outside. There are little lizards running about and birds sleep in the top of the kitchen. Take a look at the place:


I had two very patient guides go with me to the super market to get some necessities. Lots of little differences with things. Milk is only available in plastic bags. Cars and motorcycles zoom around each other as they please, and pedestrians might as well be geese that drivers assume will fly out of the way as long as they keep speeding up. Luckily the streets are numbered.

My main contact at the Colombo Amercano Juan Alberto Gaviria is really great. He's been introducing me around to everyone and helping me get my bearings. It's thanks to him that I'm able to be here. Here are some pictures I took on the drive with him between Nuestra Gente y Los Amigos de los Limitados Fisicos:




But the language is definitely in my way. Speaking is not nearly as frustrating as listening. Tengo mucho aprender.