Little Amal's Arrival in Birmingham: A Beacon of Hope in the Deep South
Yaa Samar! Dance Theatre Joins Forces with Create Birmingham, Alabama School of Fine Arts, and Lonnie Holley
The city of Birmingham, Alabama, is abuzz with excitement as it braces itself for a visitor of remarkable stature. On October 11, 2023, Little Amal, the larger-than-life, 12-foot-tall puppet symbolizing a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, will grace the heart of Alabama with her presence. This momentous occasion is a highlight of her epic 6,000-mile journey across the United States, which will span for two months and cover more than 100 events across 35 U.S. cities and towns.
A Tribute to History's Impact
The performance, aptly named "When the Children Gather," pays homage to a pivotal juncture in American history—the 1963 Children's Crusade in Birmingham. This historic event ultimately paved the way for the enactment of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In a live, site-specific performance, Little Amal will converge with over 50 young participants. Together, they will collaborate with musician Lonnie Holley in a march that amplifies the voices of the youth.
A Creative Synergy
"When the Children Gather" is not a product of a singular artistic vision. Rather, it's a harmonious synergy between Yaa Samar! Dance Theatre and Create Birmingham. Under the astute guidance of Wes Chapman, the former Principal Dancer of the American Ballet Theatre, the Alabama School of Fine Arts Dance Department adds an additional layer of artistic excellence. The event proudly bears the imprimatur of The Walk Productions, in association with the esteemed Handspring Puppet Company and The Office Arts (US Production Partner).
Little Amal's Unprecedented American Sojourn
Little Amal's arrival in Birmingham serves as a pivotal chapter in her unprecedented journey across the United States. She is more than a mere traveler; she embodies the hopes, dreams, and resilience of countless refugees globally. As she embarks on this extraordinary odyssey, her path will traverse over 35 cities and towns, encompassing more than 100 events. Along this path, she'll encounter some of the nation's most influential cultural institutions and artists, each eagerly awaiting her and eager to contribute their unique brushstrokes to America's diverse narrative.
A Unified Message of Hope and Solidarity
Amir Nizar Zuabi, Artistic Director of The Walk Productions, underscores the essence of unity and hope embodied by Amal. He remarks, "Amal stands for unity and hope, and we couldn't convey this message without the hundreds of partners, both large and small, coming together to support us as we embark on this journey. Every artist, organization, and institution has a unique tale to share about their slice of American history and culture, and they invite Amal and all Americans to discover what beats at the heart of this nation."
Art as an Agent of Transformation
Little Amal's journey extends beyond raising awareness; it's a catalyst for change. Beyond the puppetry spectacle and grand performances, this initiative is a platform for building understanding, championing justice, and empowering refugees. It's a celebration of the transcendent power of art to break barriers and ignite a fire of empathy and compassion.
A Journey to Echo Through Time
It is evident that the legacy of Little Amal's epic voyage will endure long after her footprints have vanished from the sands of time. She has woven herself into the fabric of hearts and minds across the nation, kindling a flame of empathy and comprehension that will continue to burn brightly, perpetually illuminating the path toward a more compassionate world.
Amal's journey beckons us all to walk alongside her, to partake in the celebration of diversity, and to champion the rights, dignity, and aspirations of refugees and immigrants who, like Amal, seek a brighter and more promising tomorrow.