bare, witness.

An interdisciplinary project with choreography, poetry, and music by Lovar Davis Kidd

bare, witness. is a journey towards self-discovery. This project is a vulnerable act of freedom through the lens of my biracial identity and growing up without a father. I’m representing myself in this work, hoping its reverberation speaks to others like me. While your perception is noted, your role tonight is to bare, witness. into my ongoing investigations of the me, I long to be.

Dancers:

Lovar Davis Kidd

Artistic Team

Choreographer(s):
Lovar Davis Kidd and David Berkey, with permission from the Berkey Family

Original Sound Design:
Lovar Davis Kidd and Ryan Phelan

Spoken Word:
Lovar Davis Kidd and Akwi Nji 

Costume Designer:
Lovar Davis Kidd 

Content Designer and Operation:
Victor Maldonado

Lighting Designer:
Haven Haywood 

Stage Manager:
Jordan "JJ" Jones 

Projection and Technology Support​:
Daniel Fine
Emily Berkheimer
Tyler Salow
Molly Costello

Performer:
Lovar Davis Kidd 

Thesis Committee:
Daniel Fine
Rebekah Kowal
Tony Orrico

Victor Maldonado – Content Designer

Victor is a 3rd year MFA Design student at the University of Iowa with a focus in lighting and digital media design. Aside from theatre, Victor has been the lighting designer for artist like Boys II Men at Rhythm City Casino, and the lighting designer for Hancher’s Fall Welcome Concert 2023 for Britney Howard and Dawn Richards. Other design credits at the university include Braided Sorrow, Lil G: A Gatsby Remix, BLKS, and Gwenevere.

Ryan Phelan – Sound Engineer

Ryan Phelan is a highly skilled multi-instrumentalist renowned for his expertise in Jazz Guitar and Music Production, backed by over two decades of teaching experience. With a decade-long certification in Ableton, Ryan specializes in mentoring bass and guitar enthusiasts, shaping their musical journeys. In addition to his instrumental mastery, he has successfully facilitated music production and rock band classes, nurturing aspiring talents.

As a dynamic performer, Ryan has graced prestigious stages alongside acclaimed acts like Dr.Z’s Experiment and Young The Lion. He has collaborated with local blues and rock hall of fame inductees such as Dennis McMurrin, Dan Johnson, and Tommy Giblin. Ryan's musical journey also features impressive openings for iconic bands including Garaj Mahal, Big Wu, Digable Planets, and Styx.

Over the past three years, Ryan has demonstrated his creativity and passion for music by recording and releasing three solo albums. His innovative approach and dedication to his craft continue to inspire both his students and fellow musicians alike.