User:POCO

POCO is an organization at Bard College that works to integrate the roles of performer and spectator using a diverse selection of artistic media. Events are based on improvising in the moment through the collaboration of visual artists, musicians, film makers, audience members, etc. We wish to facillitate a forum in which one is encouraged to express themselves through any collaborative artistic means. Each event is a unique incarnation of these objectives.

On November 17th, 2005 we had our first POCO event, "POCO Lounge," prior to being established as a Bard Club. The event was successfull considering the financial constraints. We rented a space and set up the room as a gallery/lounge displaying current art from various art students. We set up two stages in the room, one geared to larger acts and one smaller for single performers. We had seven different acts: solo vocals, jazz ensemble, recited poetry, bluegrass, country, dramatic prose readings, previously recorded electronic music. We had live video feed manipulated and replayed on a large projection screen controlled by several film students. Also included in the Lounge were a Master of Ceremonies, a girl dressed as a clown, a bouncer, a bartender (who then played his music on top of the bar), a girl putting fake tattoos on whoever wanted them, a palm reader, and a magician. The atmosphere was one of controlled chaos. We had a guest book that people were prompted to sign by our Master of Ceremonies - over 100 people signed their names. During and after the event we were approached by many of the participants - audience and artisans - who were thrilled. At least four people mentioned that it was the best event they'd been to at Bard College.