Born and raised in Erbil, Iraq, Hussein Smko's journey from the conflict-ridden streets of Kurdistan to international acclaim is a testament to the transformative power of art. As a child, Smko discovered dance as an outlet during a turbulent time in his homeland. His journey began with The Street Wolves, a hip-hop crew he formed that gained local fame and inspired young dancers in Kurdistan.
Since then, Smko has performed and choreographed at prestigious festivals and institutions, including the Kennedy Center, Battery Dance Festival, CUNY Dance Initiative, and the Chicago Cultural Center. In 2024, he performed in Pontus Lidberg’s On the Nature of Rabbits at the Joyce Theater. His work has earned critical acclaim in outlets like The New York Times, Dance Magazine, and The Wall Street Journal for its depth and cultural significance.
For Smko, dance isn’t just an art form, it is a lifeline. His passion for movement was sparked by a surprising encounter with an American soldier, introducing him to hip-hop. Despite societal resistance to his artistic pursuits, Smko has carved a unique voice in contemporary dance.
That desire for self-expression has influenced his other work as well. In a New York Times article by Brian Schaefer, Smko reflected on founding Project Tag in 2019, a company that has showcased work at the Battery Dance Festival and other small performance platforms. "It is a goal for me to speak about my background and my history," Smko shared.
One of these showings caught the attention of Handan Ozbilgin, the artistic director of the LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC). “I was mesmerized by a Smko duet that was vulnerable even though it’s masculine,” Ozbilgin told the New York Times. Recognizing his talent, she encourages him to apply to LPAC's grant funded residency program and encouraged him to apply for more grants to support larger-scale work.
Last fall, Smko presented an evening-length work-in-progress called Sarah at LaGuardia Performing Arts Center. The piece, inspired by his sister who still lives in Erbil, explores her struggle for autonomy and agency in a society that is evolving yet still deeply traditional and patriarchal. Smko, with his sister’s permission, uses the piece to delve into her story while shedding light on broader societal issues faced by Kurdish women.
At its core, Sarah is a tribute to Smko’s sister, a symbol of strength and determination amid the chaos of war. Her story intertwines with the collective Kurdish struggle for independence and identity, presenting a deeply emotional and thought-provoking narrative. Through fluid choreography and dynamic storytelling, Smko crafts a poignant portrayal of the human spirit’s endurance, and the vital roles women play as anchors in their communities.
What makes Sarah particularly compelling for LPAC’s Rough Draft Festival is its experimental approach. Smko merges traditional Kurdish dance elements with contemporary movement styles, creating a powerful fusion that highlights cultural heritage while pushing artistic boundaries. This performance offers a rare glimpse into the creative process, making it a must-see for those who appreciate the vulnerability and excitement of work-in-progress performances.
The piece addresses universal themes like family, resilience, and self-discovery, while also providing an intimate look at the Kurdish experience. Rough Draft Festival audiences will have the unique opportunity to connect with the artist and contribute to the evolution of the work. Post-performance talkbacks and discussions will offer attendees insight into Smko’s process and vision, fostering a deeper connection to the piece.
LaGuardia Performing Arts Center continue to support artists like Smko, whose work amplifies diverse voices and challenges traditional narratives.
Join LPAC as we celebrate Sarah, a remarkable work-in-progress, and be part of this inspiring artistic journey.
Stay tuned for the premiere of Sarah in 2025 and follow LPAC for updates on this and other performances.
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