Forgotten No More
Inspiration
for the Korean War Veterans Memorial Project was initiated in the Fall
of 2000 when Kista Tucker, then teaching at George Washington University,
wandered the Mall in Washington, DC and stumbled upon the breathtaking
and hauntingly beautiful sculptures Frank Gaylord III created for the
Korean War Veterans Memorial. Tucker was spellbound and overcome by
the powerful, yet vulnerable figures that emit compassion and the eternal
struggle that comes with war.
Overwhelmed by the feelings the statues elicited; two years later, with
the financial support of Sam Houston State University, Tucker began
the process of analyzing Gaylord’s work and choreographed a full-length
performance that continues the mission the memorial began involving
veterans of the Korean War.
The evening’s event includes three major sections; “Stateside”
represents civilian life in America during the Korean Conflict, “Forgotten
No More” is a thirty-five minute dance depicting combat and other
war related issues, and “Talkback” is an interactive session
between local veterans, artists, and the audience.
Through the process of research and development this performance raises
a deeper understanding of those involved in war. Many magnificent people
were deeply changed by that wartime experience and it should not continue
to be labeled “The Forgotten War.” While Forgotten No More
was initiated by Frank Gaylord’s spellbinding figures of the Korean
War Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC, this work can be considered
more universal and ties can be made to other wars.
The first phase of the project brought the dance, the concert, and the
local community together. Now the second phase is striving to reach
a national and international audience.
The purpose of continuing the project is multifaceted. Remembering “The
Forgotten War” and those who fought and died in it is of primary
concern. Also, raising broader awareness of conflict and its consequences
is a relevant and timely topic. Lastly, the fact that “The Forgotten
War” was presented to the public helps in the ever-continuing
healing process for some veterans.
Thank you for taking a few moments to peruse this document and view
the enclosed material so that a deeper and clearer understanding of
the project can be gleaned. If you are interested in this project please
contact:
Delia Gallinaro,
Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY
dgallinaro@shsu.edu
Kista Tucker,
formerly of the Department of Theatre & Dance
SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY
kista@rochester.rr.com |
