Cellist Unearths Gullah Geechee Past

Cellist Jeffrey Zeigler, formerly of the Kronos Quartet, has created a multidisciplinary work, "We Were Fridays," delving into his family's Gullah Geechee heritage in South Carolina. This project, developed over nearly ten years, was inspired by stories learned from an elder relative about his ancestors, including George Washington Friday, an enslaved man.

The premiere of "We Were Fridays" at National Sawdust in Brooklyn showcases a fusion of dance, music, theater, and visual projections. Collaborators include composers Etienne Charles and Tamar-kali, choreographer Reggie Gray, and others. The performance features snippets of family stories, electronic cello, and dance that incorporates Gullah Geechee traditions like the ring shout.

The project emphasizes community engagement, with plans for performances and workshops at historically Black colleges and community centers. The creative team visited South Carolina to ensure respectful collaboration. "We Were Fridays" will also be performed at the University of South Carolina, continuing its connection to its geographic and cultural origins.