Spoken word, music, modern and jazz dance are intertwined in the graceful, yet powerful production by Naja,  “Sweet Like Chocolate; Poetry in Motion II”.  Part of this years Philly Fringe Festival, performances will run from September 17-19, 2009 at the CEC Meeting House Theater at 3500 Lancaster Avenue in Philadelphia.

Karen Moore-Williams, better known as Naja, is a spoken word artist who lives and performs in the greater Philadelphia region. Naja has an extensive background and training in music covering a wide variety of genres. Naja goes on to explain, “I received classical training on the piano, but I have explored most other types of music. All these influences have worked together to give me an artistic vision that speaks to a great many people.”

Working from their home in Germantown, Naja and her husband, Robin Williams, Sr. have collaborated on the upcoming Fringe performance as they do with all of Naja’s works. The strength and intimacy of the relationship embodies the essence of Naja’s artistic themes.

“Intimacy is my message,” Naja explains. “I use the spoken word to create an atmosphere where love thrives.”

The spoken word basis of the production is written and produced by Naja herself. It is a melding of the poetic rendering of intimacy found in the Song of Solomon scriptures together with Naja’s own unique poetic vision. The music of the production is both composed and produced by Naja’s husband, Robin. The focus of the music, dance, and spoken word is always on love.

Collaborating with Naja to bring this unique production to the stage are co Choreographers/dancers Justin Bryant and Maya Johnson. Performers include Mrs. Laverne Andrews, Mrs. Licia Washington, Ms. Latisha Mays and Ms. Danielle Matthews.

Sweet Like Chocolate Poetry in Motion II
Naja
Interdisciplinary, 60 minutes
September 17, 18 & 19th at 8pm.
CEC Meeting House Theater, 3500 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia
Tickets: $15
http://www.livearts-fringe.org/details.cfm?id=9045

More about Naja at http://www.najarenee.com