AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER
GREAT MUSICAL
woody sez THE MUSIC AND LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TRADITIONAL MUSICIAN WOODY GUTHRIE
Living Green EARTH DAY FISH GARDEN
BBQ MEMORIAL DAY TIM HENDRY SINGING AS THE KING
CAJUN MUSIC BY A LOUISIANA FRENCH BAND
WEEK OF JOURNALISM
THE LURE OF TEXTILES
ORGANIZED BY AMERICAN ROUTES
IAN SWANSON
AN ART EXHIBIT
PAGE 6
EDITOR OF THE HILL
CURATED BY LAUREL REUTER
PAGE 8
PAGE 12
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 2
contents 02
2014 Spring - 2015 Spring
CONTENTS
04 ABOUT ACC An introduction to tell you what ACC is, and what people here do.
38
WEEKLY EVENTS
2014 SPRING 06 WOODY SEZ A great musical presented the music and life of the American traditional muscian Woody Guthrie played on 25th March 2014.
08 CAJUN MUSIC 10 WEEK OF JOURNALISM 12
EARTH DAY The annul Earth Day event is held on 22nd April every year. The event helps raise stu-
dents' awareness of protecting our environment.
14
THE LURE OF TEXTILES
16
THE CAMPBELL BROTHERS
18
MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION
20 RED RIVER TRIO 22 HIGHLIGHTS OF AMERICAN THEATER
2014 AUTUMN 24 FOLKLORIST CONCERT 26 FURNITURE JOURNEY WITH CHRISTOPHER DEWART Christopher Dewart, artist and designer from MIT, delivered lectures and workshop in USST, invited by the American Culture Center.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 3
ACC MEMBERS DIRECTORS Jennifer Tarlin, PhD, Director (jennifer.tarlin@usst.edu.cn, 86 147 8257 5964) Abby Zhang, MA, Assistant Director (abby7958@sina.com, 86 021 5512 3295)
VOLUNTEER ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP PRESIDENT Huang Tianchen (huang-colin@hotmail.com) VICE PRESIDENT Li Keran (likeran@163.com) HR MANAGER Xiao Yuanting (cathy.xiao1994@hotmail.com) DOCUMENTATION MANAGER Huang Wan (hwan819@163.com) STUDIO MANAGER Liang Junjie (junjiecurtis0722@gmail.com) PROJECT MANAGER
28 A WEEK WITH FOUNDSOUNDNATION
2015 SPRING
Luo Siwei (lawszemei@outlook.com)
Imprint EDITORS
30 UND RESIDENCY
Jennifer Tarlin, Huang Wan
32 KLEZMATICS CONCERT
WRITERS Huang Wan, Wu Meizhen
34 KEVIN LOCKE TUO
Zhang Qi, Zhu Jie, Xiao Yuanting, Kang Wen
A unique, interactive workshop and an enlightening performance including visionary dancing, ancient flute songs and soaring powwow vocals
PHOTOGRAPHER Zhang Jiawei, Li Keran, Bian Huanming
36 LECTURE: HENRY KILLAM MURPHY IN SHANGHAI
Yin Zhijie, Zhang Jiani, Liang Junjie, Zhang Sijia DESIGNER Huang Wan
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 4
ABOUT ACC GREETINGS FROM THE AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER AT THE UNI-
leadership, we have also introduced new projects and activities that
VERSITY OF SHANGHAI FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY.
volunteers proposed to find new ways to promote greater understanding of Chinese and American cultural traditions
This year we completed our fourth season of activities. As in the past, our year has been filled with lively conversations, thought-provoking
OUR MISSION
events and presentations, lots of good music, innovative art exhibits, and (by popular demand) excellent food.
The American Culture Center promotes understanding between
What’s different this year is the increasingly important role that stu-
China and the United States by creating opportunities for students,
dent volunteers have taken in creating programs and making them
scholars, artists, and professionals to meet, exchange ideas and learn
work. We have not only built a strong and effective system of student
from each other. We sponsor concerts, exhibits, lectures, work-
▲JENNIFER TARLIN, Director of American Culture Center
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 5
shops and short residencies as well as informal programs of cultural
heart of all activities including planning, implementation, and docu-
exchange and conversation at our home on the campus of the
mentation. The volunteer organization now includes over 225 under
University of Shanghai for Science & Technology. The Center supports
the leadership of an elected president and vice-president. Volunteer
the University’s developing programs in global education by linking
organization now includes over 250 students and alumni.
scholars in different areas of the university who share a common interest in research and teaching related to the United States. Although
RECENT ACTIVITIES SPONSORED BY THE ACC (2013-2014)
our primary audience is the university student body, faculty and staff, our programs are free and open to the public and benefit from the
Professional residencies this year included:
active participation of the larger Shanghai community.
• University of North Dakota String Quartet • The Campbell Brothers (gospel steel guitar)
WHEN DID THE AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER BEGIN?
• The Cajun Country Revival (Cajun dance music)
Our Opening Ceremony was on December 2, 2010
• Conni Castille, documentary filmmaker • Ian Swanson, Journalist and Editor, The Hill, Washington, DC, and Fe-
IS THIS CENTER PART OF A LARGER CULTURAL EXCHANGE PRO-
licia Somnez, Correspondent, FNP Beijing and former reporter for The
GRAM?
Washington Post • Woody Sez, Musical Drama on the life of Woody Guthrie
The International Cultural Park at the University of Shanghai for Sci-
• Kevin Locke, Edmond Navaquarra, Monica Raphael, Native American
ence and Technology includes six centers providing programs in
Musicians and Hoop Dancers
cultural exchange between China and the US, Great Britain, Japan,
• Americans Abroad: The Lure of Textiles, Art exhibit curated by Laurel
Germany, Nordic European countries, and Australia. Each program is
Reuter, Director, North Dakota Museum of Art
lodged in a remodeled historic house on campus. The Centers work
• Luke Jaeger, Animator and Filmmaker
individually and collectively to sponsor programs in cultural, scholarly
• Carla Dirlikov & Justin Snyder (voice, piano)
and business/professional exchange offering lectures, concerts, train-
• Professor James Mochoruk, Historian, University of North Dakota
ing programs, exhibits, and related activities.
• Michael Ismerio, Chris Hawke, and Kirk Kenney (Appalachian music and dance)
HOW IS THE CENTER SUPPORTED?
• Cheryl Turski & Henry Clarke: An Ongoing Experiment – A Brief History of the American Theatre
The Center is part of the International Affairs Division of the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology which provides basic operating support. Additional programming support has come from the
If you have suggestions for our American Culture Center, we would
United States Department of State through a grant to USST and its
love to hear them. We are constantly renewed by the energy and ideas
American partner, the University of North Dakota College of Arts and
of our volunteer community. China and the United States have much
Sciences as well as Pingpong Arts in Beijing.
to learn from each other and at the American Culture Center we learn a little more every day.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHIEF ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND SUCCESSES OF THIS CENTER?
Our program collaborators this year include American Routes, Arts Midwest, the New York Institute of Technology-Nanjing University of
Since opening its doors, over 24,000 people have visited the Center
Posts and Telecommunications partnership, Pingpong Productions,
or attended sponsored concerts, lectures, and cultural events at other
SageVision and Green Initiatives.
University venues. The American Culture Center has established a template for student participation and management that places student volunteers at the
WORD Jennifer Tarlin PHOTOGRAPH Li Keran
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 6
DAVID M. LUTKEN, DARCIE DEAVILLE, HELEN JEAN RUSSELL, ANDY TEIRSTEIN
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 7
woody sez University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Small Auditorium 25th March 2014 WORDS Kang Wen | PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei
WOODY SEZ is a theatrical concert event that uses Woody’s words, and over twenty-five of Woody’s songs to transport the audience through the fascinating, beauti-
O
n March 25th, 2014, 7 pm, the musical Woody Sez was held in the small auditorium at USST. The opera showed the music and life of the American traditional musician Woody Guthrie. The performance was sponsored by the American Culture Center.
ful, and sometimes
Woody. The melody was sometimes happy and sometimes sad, changing with the ups and downs of his life. David won applause for his exaggerated performance and moving music. When the performance came to the happy moment, “Woody” walked down the stage to interact with the audience and then he jazzed with a lucky lady, which made the audience cheer a lot. The plot continued and “Woody” came to California to remarry and
tragic life of Woody
Woody was born in the United States in the
had a daughter, leading to the climax of the
Guthrie.
1920s. As a person living at the very bot-
story. David burst into tears at the moving
tom of the society for a long time, Woody
moments, which made the audience deeply
upheld to sing the songs from people and for
touched. The warm and open performance
people. At the most depressed and darkest
during the whole opera was also welcomed
age of American modern history, Woody
by the kids in the audience and made them
brought strength and faith to people through
laugh now and then. The musical sounded
his music. He wrote down their sadness
less sorrowful and ended with a happy and
and encouraged them to fight. He stuck to
hopeful song. Everyone burst into applause
his dream that music could defeat Fascism.
with pleasure. After that the Woody Sez
There’s one sentence engraved on Woody’s
crew interacted with the audience. David said
guitar: This Machine Kills Fascists. It was the
“I think it is hopeful,” when he was asked to
musical ‘Woody Sez’ that told the whole
express his opinion about the opera.
story about Woody’s life and his beloved music.
Thanks for the excellent opera performed by David M. Lutken, Darcie Deaville, Helen Jean
Before the musical, David M.Lutken who
Russell and Andy Teirsten and directed by
played the role of Woody attracted every-
Nick Corley. We believe that the audiences
body’s eyes by two lively songs which had
have all found their own favorite and moving
strong rhythm. The opera told us the life of
moments.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 8 WORDS Huang Wan | PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER - 9
cajun music UNIVERSITY OF SHANGHAI FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SMALL AUDITORIUM 8TH APRIL 2014
O
n April 8th, a Louisiana French
filmmaker Conni Castille showed and dis-
exceptionally vibrant atmosphere.
band, on their first-ever tour
cussed her documentaries ‘I Always Do My
On Wednesday, Nick Spitzer, American
to mainland China, brought us
Collars First—A film about ironing (2007)and
Routes producer and professor of American
a musical performance in the
T-Galop: A Louisiana Horse Story (2012). She
studies and anthropology at Tulane Uni-
small auditorium, under the auspices of the
talked about the Louisiana culture and her
versity, as artistic director, gave lectures on
American Culture Center. The tour was orga-
own experience of making the documenta-
French Louisiana culture to the students of
nized by public radio’s American Routes.
ries.
the American Culture Course. Following the
Cajun music, an emblematic music of Loui-
When the night drew on, Cajun music started
lecture, the musicians returned to answer
siana, is rooted in the ballads of the French-
to flow in the small auditorium. The quartet
questions about their music and played a few
speaking Acadians of Canada. Cajun music is
composed of an accordion, violin, guitar
more songs. Thanks to Nick Spitzer, Conni
often mentioned in tandem with the Creole-
and bass provided us access to the essential
Castille, Jesse Lége, Joel Savoy & Cajun Coun-
based, Cajun-influenced zydeco form, both
form of socializing in French Louisiana. The
try Revival. We all had a good time.
of Acadiana origin. These French Louisiana
creative tradition of Cajun music continues
sounds have influenced American popular
today as fiddles and accordions are played
Support for the tour was provided by the U.S. State
music for many decades, especially country
with influences from country music, blues,
Department, the New York Institute of Technology
music, and have influenced pop culture
Creole zydeco, traditional jazz and rock &
partnership with the Nanjing University for Posts
through mass media, such as television com-
roll. Infected by the lively music, students
and the University of North Dakota partnership
mercials.
stepped into the dance floor dancing to
with the University of Shanghai for Science &
fore the musical performance, on the second
waltzes and two-steps under the instructions
Technology.
floor of the American Culture Center, Cajun
of Cajun musicians. The concert generated an
Be-
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 10
University of Shanghai for Science and Technology American Culture Center 2014.04.20-23
A RESIDENCY ABOUT JOURNALISM WITH IAN SWANSON
week of journalism
AND FELICIA SOMNEZ. On April 20th, Ian Swanson, the
around the country.
News Editor of The Hill, arrived
Before moving to Beijing last
The Hill, Ian Swanson was an as-
year, Felicia was a correspondent
sociate editor at Inside U.S. Trade,
at our campus as a guest of the
HOW TO WRITE GOOD RE-
for the Washington Post. Ian
a prominent Washington trade
American Culture Center. During
PORTS ON CAMPUS
and Felicia discussed the work-
publication. Coverage included
the one-week residency, Ian gave
ings of U.S. political reporting
the World Trade Organization
students lectures about journal-
Under the sponsorship of the
– how journalists cover the fed-
ministerial meetings in Doha,
ism and shared his working ex-
American Culture Center, vol-
eral government in Washington
Cancun and Hong Kong.
perience.
unteers from all culture centers
as well as political campaigns in
who work on reports were invited
the states. Felicia also explored
Ian grew up in North Dakota,
DURING THE RESIDENCY AT
to a meeting with Ian. Ian talked
how social media is changing the
where he started his career in
USST, IAN SWANSON SHARED
about his work at The Hill and an-
American journalism landscape,
journalism by founding the The
HIS EXPERIENCES WITH STU-
swered students’ questions. He
and what to expect as the 2016
High Plains Reader, a biweekly
DENTS.
also offered some advice about
White House race gets underway.
newspaper covering arts and en-
how to write good reports on The Hill is a newspaper and web
campus.
site that covers politics and government in Washington, D.C. At
IAN JOINED THE COFFEE HOUR
The Hill, Ian directs a team of 40
AND DELIVERD A LECTURE.
reporters, editors and bloggers
tertainment. He later worked for IAN ALSO HELD A JOURNAL-
The Grand Forks Herald, where
ISM WORKSHOP WITH FELICIA
he covered the North Dakota
SOMNEZ.
Legislature and politics.
Thank to Ian Swanson and Felicia
Ian has a master’s degree in jour-
writing up-to-the-minute news
During the week, Ian joined our
Somnez for sharing their experi-
nalism from Columbia University.
and analysis in the U.S. capital.
weekly Coffee Hour on Monday
ences in US political reporting
His freelance work has appeared
He covered international trade as
afternoon and then delivered a
and their knowledge of journal-
in The New York Times, and he
an associate editor at Inside U.S.
lecture about recent news events
ism. We all now have a better un-
appears frequently as a television
Trade, a prominent Washington
with Prism as the main topic on
derstanding of the news around
and radio commentator on sta-
trade publication. Ian has a mas-
Tuesday night. On Wednesday,
us and the choices that news edi-
tions around the country.
ter’s degree in journalism from
Ian attended the American Cul-
tors have to make in reporting on
Columbia University. His free-
ture Course with Felicia Som-
world events.
lance work has appeared in The
nez, a China correspondent for
New York Times, and he appears
the English-language service of
frequently as a television and
Agence France-Presse, one of
radio commentator on stations
the world’s largest news wires.
Thanks to our USST-UND PartWHO IS IAN SWANSON
nership grant for support of this program.
Before becoming News Editor of
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 11
PRISM is a clandestine mass electronic surveillance data mining program launched in 2007 by the National Security Agency (NSA), with participation from an unknown date by the British equivalent agency, GCHQ. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ PRISM_(surveillance_program)
WORDS Huang Wan PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 12
WORDS Wu Meizhen, Zhu Jie | PHOTOGRAPH Yin Zhijie
Living Green University of Shanghai for Science and Technology American Culture Center 22nd April 2014 On April 22nd, the annual Earth Day event
founder of Green Initiatives, Nitin is an archi-
and get local; we need to change the way we
was held on schedule, with four guests from
tect by profession and an environmentalist at
produce goods and how we consume them.
Green Initiatives and Green Book. They
heart. The topic of his presentationwas “Sus-
Following Nitin, Sebastian Martin gave us
delivered two presentations and set up three
tainable Living: Option or Necessity.” Nitin
another lecture. Sebastian has organized cof-
workshops, sharing with us not only their
emphasized the importance of sustainability.
fee sourcing trips throughout Latin America
perspectives on Ecology but also their action
He also mentioned that population, technol-
and China, and launched Cambio Coffee in
to protect one and only Mother Earth. All
ogy and consumption are three main factors
Shanghai – i.e. an ‘organic’, ‘direct trade’ coffee
the events are supported by the American
responsible for environmental pollution.
company. He talked about “Social Entrepre-
Culture Center.
According to him, conscious consumption is
neurship as a Career.” He explained that so-
what we need badly. His belief demonstrates
cial entrepreneurship, which is a completely
Part One: Lecture
that material well-being is not the only
new concept in China, actually stands for
The first presenter was Nitin Dani. As the co-
source of our happiness. To sum up, buy less
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 13 creating positive social impact for the public by developing profitable business. Then he told us that social entrepreneurship is a hybrid of non-profits, governmental organization and for-profit business. As a social entrepreneur, Sebastian pays as much as possible to farmers and coffee growers. At last, he encouraged us to start our own business as social entrepreneurs.
Part Two: Workshop Next came the three fabulous workshops. We got ‘Thinking like an Ecosystem’, ‘Know Your Air,’ and ‘Planting with a Purpose,’ ‘Thinking like an Ecosystem’ was set up by Lynn King. Lynn King is the founder and managing director of Sage Vision, a leadership consultancy registered in Shanghai China. The workshop highlighted the deeper lessons behind the Aquaponic Fish Garden™, including introduction to natural ecosystems and social ecosystems. After making an ecological map cooperatively, we learned how our social ecosystems are killing our natural ecosystems and realized that social ecosystems can mimic natural ecosystems to gain great benefit. The ‘Know Your Air’ Workshop was presented by Niels Woelders. Niels is the Technical Director at Greentec and the Co-Founder of Greenbook. Niels took different types of reading equipment to show
01 different aspects of air cleaners in an interactive way. Comparing the long-term cost of LED lights with ordinary lights bulbs, he appealed to people to use LED lights not only to save money but also to save energy. The ‘Planting with a Purpose’ Workshop was set up by Emily Wang. Emily is a B.A. student of our university majoring in finance and investment. She is an avid environmental enthusiast and has organized several environmentally-related activities for our school. The participants were requested to bring their household containers to the workshop. Apart from providing soil and different kinds of seeds to plant, students learned how waste material could be reused as planters in our homes for our own benefit. Thanks to all the guests for their attendance and the volunteers for their assistance. We believe that the Earth Day event raises public awareness to care for Mother Earth. Start doing something and be the change you want to see in the world.
02 01 Fish Garden a program named Aquaponics under the instructions of Lynn King. We also had some professors and experts delivering lectures on environmental protection, organic and sustainable living. 02 Workshops students’ getting involved in our workshops: ‘thinking like an ecosystem,’ ‘know your air,‘ and ‘planting with a purpose.’
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 14
University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Art Gallery 2014.04.28-05.27
the lure of textiles ON APRIL 28TH, LAUREL REUTER, DIRECTOR OF THE NORTH DAKOTA MUSEUM OF ART, JOINED THE OPENING CEREMONY OF “THE LURE OF TEXTILES”. Americans Abroad: The Lure of Textiles” included works by three innovative American artists. The exhibit was curated by Laurel Reuter, who spent a week at USST lecturing and working with the staff of the USST Art Gallery. Over 250 people attended lectures and events during her visit. This is not Laurel’s first visit to China. She organized and toured an earlier exhibition through the US Information Service to Pacific Rim countries and China under the sponsor ship of the Us Information Service. The goal of “The Lure of Textiles” is to introduce contemporary fiber movement artists from the United States to those Asian countries where the making of textiles follows ancient traditions and is practiced at the highest levels. The Exhibit features work by Vernal Borgen Swift, Lena Weller, and Francis Wilson. The three artists in this exhibition have drawn on the traditions and cultures of older countries for their inspiration.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 15
WORDS Huang Wan PHOTOGRAPH Yin Zhijie
This project is supported by the North Dakota Museum of Art and the UND-USST Partnership.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 16
the campbell brothers
UNIVERSITY OF SHANGHAI FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LARGE AUDITORIUM 13TH MAY 2014
WHEN IT COMES TO SACRED STEEL, WE THINK OF THE CAMPBELL BROTHERS. Sacred Steel, African-American gospel music with electric steel guitar and vocal, is a soulstirring blend of gospel, soul, country, rock, electric blues and jazz, shredding perceptions of the country’s signature instrument and the limitations of church music.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER - 17
On May 13th, the Campbell Brothers with
gently, she had the audience clapping and
their tradition of music as well as to praise
a special guest—guqin musician Wu Na,
swaying. Then we heard four songs: ‘There
and realize the versatility and expressive
brought us a musical performance in the
is no Failure in God’, ‘Pass Me Not’, ‘When
potential of the steel guitar. While enjoy-
large auditorium, under the auspices of the
I Feel Good’ and ‘Don’t Let the Devil Ride’.
ing the first-ever ensemble of Sacred Steel
American Culture Center in Shanghai and the
The musicians explained that the music was
and guqin in China, we felt unprecedented
Center for American Culture in Nanjing.
first sung in churches but is now enjoyed
inspiration. Over five hundred people at-
Around 7pm, the concert began with singer
by both religious and secular audiences.
tended the performance and were on their
Tiffany Godette. Singing beautifully and
According to them, their mission is to share
feet jumping and dancing to “Jump for Joy”.
WORDS Wu Meizhen, Huang Wan PHOTOGRAPH Li Keran www.campbellbrothers.com
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 18
WORDS Huang Wan | PHOTOGRAPH Du Yuan, Zhang Jiani
memorial day barbecue WITH SPECIAL GUEST "ELVIS PRESLEY" (TIM E. HENDRY)
University of Shanghai for Science and Technology American Culture Center 26th May 2014
O
n May 26th, the American Culture Center
career impersonating legendary American rock star Elvis
held a Memorial Day Celebration, com-
Presley, “Elvis” perfromed on the patio between the ACC
posed of a barbecue dinner and special
and the German Culture Center. Singing several popular
guest Tim Hendry. Over one hundred-fifty
songs of The King, Tim and all his surroundings blended
students and foreign exchange visitors attended this an-
into the music. All the audience enjoyed Tim’s perfor-
nual event.
mance and were active in taking photos with him, which
At the ACC we have celebrated Memorial Day every year
provided a fitting finale to the Memorial Day celebration.
since we opened. This year, we grilled hamburgers and
Thanks to Tim Hendry for the brilliant performance and
chicken wings and served several salads and desserts
to producer Brian Offenther for organizing Tim’s visit to
all prepared at the Center by our volunteers. Besides,
China. Also thanks to all the volunteers for their assis-
we had Tim Hendry, a Canadian singer who has made a
tance. We all had a good night.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 19
01
04
02 05 01 Chicken wings? Grill it yourself! We provided chicken wings and opportunities to cook for students joining the BBQ.
02 Fresh beef and pork was being seasoned. We prepared the materials with great care.
03 A wide variety of food was offered. Students can make choices on their own.
04 Shanghai music producer Brian Offenther introduced “Elvis”(portrayed by Tim E Hendry)
05 Tim Hendry’s singing as The King.
03
After the dinner, students all enjoyed Tim’s music and performance.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 20
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER - 21
red river trio University of Shanghai for Science and Technology USST Studio Theater 29th May 2014
O
n May 29th, the Red River Trio of the Univerity of North Dakota brought us an evening of vocal and instrumental music with instrumentalists and choir members of East China Normal University, presented by the American Culture Center, in the studio theater. Joining them on stage were their teachers, Profes-
sor Nariaki Sugiura and Simona Barbu from UND and Jin Xin from ECNU. This was the fourth visit by musicians from the University of North Dakota. This time, the Red River Trio consists of three highly talented music students: soprano Anna Andersson, cellist Kara Hartten and pianist Keith Teepen. Their performance is under the direction of Nariaki Sugiura and Simona Barbu. Nariaki, who directs UND’s Piano Studio, is both a talented conductor and pianist. Simona, a soloist and chamber musician, teaches cello and chamber music.
A
s the night fell, the concert began with an ensemble of violin and piano played by Jin Xin and Nariaki, smoothly and enchantingly, leading the audience into a wonderful music world. Then the concert continued with the music of Bizet, Schubert, Bernstein, Villa-lobos and Piazzolla flowing in
the theater. Everybody present was deeply moved while enjoying the music played by these skilled musicians. At last, all the guests played the chamber work Libertango together, drawing a satisfactory full stop for the gluttonous feast of music in this melodious night, with audiences’ warm applause. Special thanks to all the guests and all volunteers for their assistance, and to North Dakota music supporter Dr. Gerald Gaul, who provided support for the musicians’ travel.
WORDS Wu Meizhen PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 22
WORDS Wu Meizhen | PHOTOGRAPH Liang Junjie
highlights of American theater UNIVERSITY OF SHANGHAI FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY GEZHI HALL 5-6 JUNE 2014
O
N JUNE 5TH, WE HAD THE
Dame. This time, their performance offered a
best addressed by comedy and “Dog Opera”
LAST PROGRAM THIS SEMES-
brief introduction to some of the major voices
by Congdon is a successful one. In the end,
TER - A BRIEF HISTORY OF
and artistic movements that have shaped the
we got “Baby with Bathwater ” by Christopher
AMERICAN THEATER, GIVEN
American stage.
Durang. This play explores the difficulties of
BY HENRY CLARKE AND CHERYL TURSKI.
being a parent, the absurdity of being a child,
This was supported by Ping Pong Productions
AT 7PM, THE SHOW BEGAN WITH THE
and the lunacy of growing up in America. All
in association with Pacific Trans Global Pro-
1900S THEATER WHEN AMERICA FOUND
the audience took an active interest in this
ductions.
ITS VOICE.
program. At the Ask & Answer section, Henry
Henry and Cheryl played Thornton Wilder’s
and Cheryl told us more about their innova-
HENRY CLARKE AND CHERYL TURSKI ARE
monumental performed a scene from “Our
tive way of acting, without music, or splendid
BOTH PROFESSIONAL ACTORS.
Town” to show the importance of the the-
stage or gorgeous costumes, just with your
Henry Clarke, an actor and writer based in
ater’s bold examination of American society
body language and intonation. About one
Los Angeles, has performed in many world
and values. They also played “All My Sons”
hundred people attended the program.
famous dramas, such as Hamlet, Henry V and
written by Arthur Miller, who had a keen eye
A Midsummer Night’s Dream and recently has
for social commentary. Then, a documen-
finished his first novel, The Beast in the Bricks.
tary form of theater emerged. They showed
Cheryl Turski, an actress and professor based
“Greensboro: A Requiem” by Emily Mann to
in Detroit, has worked at many theaters all
explore the deep and enduring problem of
over the world and now she is an assistant
prejudice in America. After that, they told the
professor of theater at Wayne State Univer-
audience that serious issues are often ad-
sity,.She was formerly on the faculty at Notre
dressed by tragedy, but sometimes they are
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER - 23
O
N THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, THE ACTORS OFFERED A TWO-PART WORKSHOP ON SCENE ANALYSIS FOR ADVANCED DRAMA AND LITERATURE STUDENTS IN THE COLLEGE OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES.
IN ADDITION TO THE PERFORMANCE, THE ACTORS OFFERED THREE PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS ON THURSDAY AFTERNOON, JUNE 5TH AND ALL DAY FRIDAY, JUNE 6TH, AT THE AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER.
Workshops on Friday covered stage movement (by Cheryl) and scene analysis. In scene analysis, the actors blended an academic approcah with the techniques of Stanislavski, Michael Chekhov, David Mamet, and more to help students discover the complexity and depth of dramatic wrting and performance.
“Scene Analysis” was open to eveyone at USST.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 24
WILLIAM LEE ELLIS, BILL IVEY, LARRY NAGER, HOWARD AND JUDITH ROSE SACKS
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 25
FOLKLORIST CONCERT University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Muisc Hall 21st October 2014 WORDS Wu Meizhen | PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei
O
n October 21st, the American Culture Center presented its first public program of this semester: “The Folk Music Revival Concert,” in the USST Music Hall. Over 150 students and guests enjoyed the evening of the traditional American music featuring performances by five scholars and teachers, William Lee Ellis, Bill Ivey, Larry Nager and a couple, Howard and Judith Rose Sacks.
of our distinguished guests not only brought
and all volunteers
us a gluttonous feast of music but also led us
from the ACC for
to step deeper into the world of folk music.
their assistance. This
They combined the theory with the folk mu-
program is under
sic to make the audience understand more
the auspices of the
easily.
American Culture Center in Shanghai
At first William told us the history of the folk
and supported by
music revival. Then came Mr. Sacks & Mrs.
the Ohio State and
Sacks，explaining the development and com-
Vanderbilt US-China
ponent elements of folk music. Bill Ivey also
Centers (in Wuhan
performed his favorite song called Treasures
and Guangzhou) and
Untold. They showed some musical instru-
ACCEX.
ments, such as steel guitar, mandolin and the During the 1960s and 1970s, young people
washboards, a home-made instrument. The
in the US developed a passionate interest in
sweetest thing was that Larry wrote a new
traditional (“folk”) music, especially the music
song for us, Lost Heaven, which was inspired
found in rural villages of the southeastern
by what he has seen and heard in China. We
region of the US. Simple songs that had been
couldn’t help singing with them, especially in
passed along from generation to generation,
two songs – “Gimme that Old Time Religion,”
and vocal and instrumental styles associated
and “The Old Mill Done Broke Down.” All the
with these songs, became highly popular.
audience immersed themselves into this
College students were inspired to study, learn
melodic night. The concert ended up with a
and perform folk music. This period in US
rock & roll song performed by Bill and Larry.
music history is called the “Folksong Revival.”
The enthusiastic audience requested several
This interest in rural traditions had a lasting
encores and gave these musicians the sincer-
effect on American popular music.
est applause they deserved.
Around 7pm, the concert began with the
Special thanks to all the guests. We also thank
American traditional song “I’m Troubled.” Five
Colin Huang for his humorous interpretation
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 26
FURNITURE journey with Christopher DEwart University of Shanghai for Science and Technology American Culture Center 10-21 November 2014
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 27
Christopher Dewart, artist and designer from
ture with many “FabLabs,” places of multiple functions available to all faculty, staff and students.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, was
On November 17th and 18th, Chris attended a workshop set up by the College of Communica-
in residence at the University of Shanghai for
tion and Art Design with students majoring in Industrial Design. The workshop was held around
Science and Technology from November 10th
the furniture based on corrugated paper and bamboo, seeking an innovative use of materials.
to November 21st, invited by the American
Chris guided students to learn the materials’ distorted and forced performance as well as make
Culture Center.
the furniture. The workshop ended in success with a furniture production of innovative struc-
During his residency, Christopher joined our
ture.
regular event Coffee Hour on Monday, No-
Thank Christopher Dewart for providing our students such great access to advanced knowledge
vember 10th. He had informal dialogues with
of art and design. Also thank our volunteers for hosting. The program was supported by a part-
students and discussed his perceptions of
nership grant between the University of North Dakota and USST.
Chinese architecture. On Wednesday, Christopher delivered a lecture for the American Culture Class. He talked about the American art of furniture-making. According to Chris, American craft and design have been affected by the indigenous Native Americans as well as all the different cultures that arrived in North America. He took Early New England
WORDS Huang Wan
and Shaker furniture as examples to illustrate that a craft can always fulfill a need. Chris also introduced that MIT is producing important, innovative and sustainable design for the fu-
PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Sijia
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 28
a week with foundsoundnatio University of Shanghai for Science and Technology American Culture Center 23rd December 2014 ON DECEMBER 23, THE AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER HELD ITS LAST CONCERT THIS YEAR WITH THREE MUSICIANS OF FOUNDSOUNDNATION. THEY PRESENTED THEIR UNIQUE MUSIC, WHICH WAS CREATED IN COOPERATION WITH OUR VOLUNTEERS DURING THEIR ONE-WEEK RESIDENCY. FOUNDSOUNDNATION (FSN) is a collective of musicians and artists who leverage the unique power of creative sound-making to help build strong, just, healthy communities. They work with people from all walks of life to give voice to underrepresented communities, unlock the creative potential of youth, and bridge cultural and political divides. The concert began at 4 pm. FSN musicians showed audiences their original music created by several objects. They used bass, guitar, electronic organ, wooden box, glasses, drum set, and a special tool named “Rose”, which is a self-made instrument for collecting sounds from our daily life. The music is so unique that audiences have never heard before. Then they played another song conjured from six students’ voice. It is amazing that the musicians only utilize participants’ voice as original materials. At the end, musicians presented their original guitar solo, drawing a full stop to the concert. Events of the American Culture Center this year culminated with the concert. Thank Jeremy Thal, Christopher Marianetti, and Florent Ghys for the enjoyable performance. Also thank all volunteers for good cooperation and efforts.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 29
on WORDS Huang Wan | PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 30
UND residency UNIVERSITY OF SHANGHAI FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY MUSICL HALL 17TH MARCH 2015
FIVE MUSICIANS INCLUDE: CELLIST Simona Barbu, BARITONE Royce Blackburn, TRUMPETER Ronnie Ingle, PIANIST Nariaki Sugiura, COMPOSER Michael Wittgraf
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER - 31
On March 17th, five outstanding musicians
Royce Blackburn sang a series of African
bols, sorrow & hope, satire and redemption
from the University of North Dakota partici-
American spirituals. Then came the climax of
& triumph, creating songs of despair, hope
pated in our first concert of this semester at
the concert — solos by Simona Barbu from
and resistance. Simona Barbu introduced two
the music hall of USST, opening the American
a beautiful cellist. The music was very sweet,
great musicians in the history of American
Music Festival. Over 100 students enjoyed the
as each composition told the audience a
folk music- Araon Copland and Christopher
fancy and graceful music from five musicians.
soft story. Ending with a duet by the pianist
Gable. She taught several students cello in
This program was under the auspices of the
Nariaki Sugiura and the cellist Simona Barbu,
the voice and instrumental lesson and Nariaki
American Culture Center in Shanghai and
the concert was given a great deal of sincere
gave a piano lesson to us as well.
supported by the University of North Dakota.
applause by the audience. Sincere thanks to these five amazing musi-
Beginning with original music from Mike
In addition to the concert, the five musicians
cians, the two dedicated interpreters and
Wittgraf, the concert triggered great interests
also brought us several lectures and a voice &
all the volunteers for their assistance. Also
from all the audience. The special composi-
instrumental lesson. Michael Wittgraf showed
special thanks to USST Music Department,
tion made from all kinds of sounds col-
us his electronic music during coffee hour.
USST Office of International Affairs and UND
lected from nature was really awesome and
Royce Blackburn told us that the themes of
College of Arts & Sciences.
impressed everyone. After that the baritone
African American Spirituals are religious sym-
WORDS Zhang Qi, Wu Meizhen PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 32
KLEzMAtICS concert WORDS Wu Meizhen PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Jiawei VIDEO Liang Junjie
UNIVERSITY OF SHANGHAI FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LARGE AUDITORIUM 7TH APRIL 2015
On April 7th, the Klezmatics, on their first-ever tour to Shanghai, China, brought us a fabulous and exotic klezmer music concert in the large auditorium. About 400 students attended the concert performed, including students from USST’s Sino-British College, which assisted with the production, members of SICA, and over a hundred American Culture Center students and volutneeers. The program is under the auspices of the American Culture Center in Shanghai and supported by the University of North Dakota, and the partnership between the University of Nanjing for Posts and Telecommunications and New York Institute of Technology. When the night came down, the concert began with two pieces of traditional Jewish songs, a
lyrics with new versions, which also con-
prelude to this melodic feast of klezmer music. Then the musicians performed some music in
veys hope, prayer and world peace. Dur-
different languages, such as Yiddish, an ancient language, as well as Aramaic and the Bavarian
ing the concert, we can’t help dancing and
language. Because of Jews travelling a lot, they also showed us a Ukraine traditional folksong,
clapping our hands and singing with the
a mixture of different kinds of music. All the audience enjoyed fantastic and joyful music, old
musicians through all the touching music.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 33
At the end of the concert, the musicians per-
rie. They continued playing two more songs to
for this memorable night, the four dedicated
formed two songs - Gonna Get through This
express their best wish to us. We all enjoyed
interpreters and all the volunteers for their as-
World and Mermaid’s Avenue from the album
ourselves so much.
sistance. Also special thanks to SICA and USST
“Wonder Wheel,” melding klezmer music with the lyrics of American folk icon Woody Guth-
Office of International Affairs. Sincere thanks to these six amazing musicians
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 34
WORDS Wu Meizhen | PHOTOGRAPH Zhang Sijia
kevin locke duo University of Shanghai for Science and Technology Student Union Auditorium 4th May 2015
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 35 On May 4th, Kevin Locke, on his second trip to USST, along with Wayne Silas, brought us a unique, interactive workshop and an enlightening performance including visionary dancing, ancient flute songs and soaring powwow vocals, under the auspices of the American Culture Center in Shanghai. This program is presented through the Native American / China Exchange and supported by Arts Midwest, the United States Embassy-Beijing, and the University of North Dakota. Kevin Locke is known throughout the world as the preeminent player of the indigenous Northern Plains flute and an inspiring hoop dancer, traditional storyteller, and cultural ambassador. Twenty-five years ago Kevin led the revival of the indigenous flute tradition, which had nearly become extinct in the United States. Wayne Silas, Jr. is a renowned singer and champion dancer. He was raised in Chicago and has been performing since he was a child. Wayne has shared his talents around the world and earned awards from numerous international competitions performing the “Fancy Dance” and singing with various drum groups. The indigenous peoples of North America use the arts to connect with reality. In traditional native culture, the arts offer a chance to focus on life, maintain balance, and understand the continuum of past, present, and future. All significant moments are marked with song or dance—birth, death, marriage, maturity, harvest, midnight, morning, and more. The traditional arts are part of the community expression of life, providing a bridge between generations—and across cultures. Around 5pm, the show was begun with a song greeting the host, as a traditional custom of the Lakota and Anishinaabe native tribes. Wayne performed the “Fancy Dance,” in the exotic native costume, helping us have a deeper understanding of this traditional Indian native dance. Then Kevin performed some ancient flute songs about love between young people and memory of the ancestors with different kinds of handmade flutes. He taught us a song in an Indian native language of Lakota. He showed us some amazing hoop dances combining with thought-provoking symbols, such as eagle flying high in the sky, the bridge of communication, the ladder to wisdom and so on. All the dances and music show the connection between people, animals, and the natural elements of our environment. In the end, an audience of 60 joined with Kevin to learn hoop dancing. We all had a wonderful time. Thanks to our distinguished guests: Kevin Locke and Wayne Silas for this memorable experience. Also special thanks to all the volunteers for your dedication.
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 36
The Origin of Modern C Henry Killam Mur On June 5th, Non Arkaraprasertkul gave a lecture on Henry Murphy and the Development of Modern Chinese Architecture for students from University of North Dakota and USST. The lecture was held in the American Culture Center. The audience included about sixty students, professors and staff. Henry Murphy is an American Architect born in 1877. He studied architecture at Yale University. Then he became principal of an independent architecture company based in New York, Murphy & Dana. Having designed many buildings in China, including our campus, he became the most influence figure in the development of modern Chinese Architecture. The lecture started at 3 pm. To open the lecture, Center Director Jennifer Tarlin introduced our university’s foundation, history, and the culture centers to the students from UND. Jenny also introduced Non, who was a Teaching Fellow in anthropology and South Asian studies at Harvard University. Non has master’s degrees in history, theory, criticism of architecture, and architecture and urban design from MIT, and Modern Chinese Studies from the University of Oxford. He is currently completing his doctoral research: “Locating Shanghai: Globalization, Heritage Industry, and the Political Economy of Urban Space.” At the beginning, Non asked students several questions to tell us what architecture is and what Modern Chinese architecture is. Then he introduced Henry Murphy. According to Non, style makes an architect’s design distinctive. It is undeniable that Murphy is a commercial architect with no signature style, because “having a distinctive style might impede the chance of getting a project.” In 1914, Henry had his first trip to China. He visited the Forbidden City, designed Yale-in-China College in Changsha, and met with the Director of Tsinghua College in Beijing. From then on, he designed a group of buildings in China, covering Fukien Christian College in Fujian, Ginlin College for Girls in Nanjing, and Yenching Univerisity in Beijing. Non also mentioned that the years from 1880 to 1930 are the Golden Age of American and
UNIVERSITY OF SHANGHAI FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER 5TH JUNE 2015
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 37
Chinese Architecture: rphy in Shanghai American-Trained Architects in China. Among all the architects, Murphy’s clients, expertise in various styles, diplomatic skills, and his “adaptive Chinese architectural renaissance style” made him special. When describing the “adaptive style,” Non used the Chinese Tunic Suit as an example to help students understand. He also told stude¬nts that Six of thirteen China Christian Colleges and Universities are designed by Murphy, including Shanghai University, the original name for the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology. To sum up, Non introduced Murphy’s legacy. After his words, we knew that Henry Murphy was the first influential American architect in China, the first “true” international architect, and the first generation “Architect-Planner.” Murphy is also a “self-appointed” messenger between commercial and diplomatic interests with genuine admiration for traditional Chinese architecture. But he doesn’t have a signature style and lacks creativity in the design of modern functions. And his adaptive architecture is too literal and a romanticization of China’s past. Non’s lecture brought us a better understanding of Henry Murphy, the Modern Chinese Architecture, and the house on our campus. Thanks to Non Arkaraprasertkul for sharing the knowledge. This year, the American Culture Center building is one hundred years old. The lecture drew a successful ending to the Center’s events this semester.
WORDS Huang Wan | VIDEO Zhang Jiawei
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 38
weekly events
SUNDAY 16:00-18:00
MONDAY 16:00-18:00
TUESDAY 18:00-21:00
An American-oriented cooking ‘school’
Held on the first floor of the American
A very interesting program supported by
where students make cupcakes, biscuits,
Culture Center. We provide coffee and
the American Culture Center Media Stu-
pizza and the like. We meet every
cookies made by our volunteers. We
dio. Some popular teachers, students and
Sunday afternoon. Volunteers select
often invite visiting professors, artists and
experts are invited to the Talk Show as
recipes, buy ingredients, and organize
scholars, both from the U.S. and other
our guests. This programme is a student
the cooking.
countries. International students often
initiative that will grow in the future.
join us.
COOKING WORKSHOP
COFFEE HOUR
TALK SHOW
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER − 39
ENJOY THE TOUR OF AMERICAN CULTURE
SHARE IDEAS AND JOY WITH YOUR FRIENDS
CATCH A GLIMPSE OF AMERICAN LITERATURE
WEDNESDAY 15:00-17:00
THURSDAY 18:00-20:30
FRIDAY 15:00-17:00
A regular course given by the director
A weekly event held on the second floor
Held in the library of the American Cul-
of the American Culture Center Jennifer
of the American Culture Center. Movie
ture Center. Our volunteers in charge of
Tarlin. Students have the chance to
Night provides a great opportunity for
the Reading Club lead students in reading
meet ACC guests close-up and explore
students to relax and catch up on the
selected American literature, and in a
a variety of themes in American culture
latest American films. We also provide
discussion of plots, themes and charac-
life. Auditors are welcome.
drinks and popcorn. Everyone can enjoy a
ters. Students can share their ideas and
peaceful time.
understandings with one another.
AMERICAN CULTURE COURSE
MOVIE NIGHT
READING CLUB
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER
International Culture Park | USST | 516 Jungong Road Shanghai | PR China
AMERICAN CULTURE CENTER A PLACE FULL OF DREAMS AND WHERE YOURS CAN BE REALIZED
Find more about us at:
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