Ancient Persian Poem Inspires Participatory Dance In Burnham Park

WDCB's Gary Zidek talks to award-winning choreographer Nejla Yatkin about the participatory dance she's created, THE CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS.

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"We always seek something outside of us, like somebody should lead us. So, the birds of the world gather to find a leader. And throughout the journey finding the leader, they learn about their ignorance and faults. Basically, they're getting to recognize themselves in the journey. It's like life, we can't find answers out there, it's within you." - Nejla Yatkin talking about the ancient Persian poem, THE CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS, that inspired her latest project.

Over the course of three weekends in August, choreographer Nejla Yatkin will lead audiences in an interactive dance at the Caracol Gathering Space in Burnham Park. The dance, titled THE CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS, was inspired by an ancient Persian poem of the same name.

Yatkin says the Caracol Gathering Space spoke to her. Less than three miles from the heart of downtown Chicago, the park offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Performances of THE CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS, which are part of the Chicago Park District's Night Out In the Park series, will take place September 8,9,15 and 16 starting at 5 pm at the Caracol Gathering Space.

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Nejla Yatkin in front of Lake Michigan