“A Safe House in Tenderloin”

“A Safe House in Tenderloin,” created by Lucada Mélange, featuring Carmen’s “Habanera” by Bizet sung by Dianna Cortez (mezzo-soprano), Donna Ahmadi (Butoh & choreography), and Derek J. Weagle (orchestral arrangement) is an eco-feminist and female reclamation piece highlighting the history of crime, drugs, and prostitution in the Garment District, formerly known as “The Tenderloin District,” a grotesque name given to the previous Red Light District, just south of Time Square when Broadway Theatres were being established in the late 19th century.

This piece highlights Carmen by Bizet and interrelates with Bukowski's poem “Bluebird.” It portrays a woman’s safe house in her body and juxtaposes Carmen’s tough exterior with the Bluebird inside her cage. This piece explores themes that allude to the right to a woman’s safe house in her body and a deep yearning to be freed from human trafficking.

The interdisciplinary artwork combines Butoh, Opera, Poetry, and Composition. It is meant for all audiences and intends to be shared with schools and communities to promote relevant discussions around human trafficking and empathy to soften stigma.

To bring this to your school or community for education and talkback discussions—please get in touch with us here: