Written by:
Jaclyn Barcewski
Photographer:
Flynn (www.flynnworks.com)
In an industry where female talent can often be reduced to nothing more than highly pruned sex symbols of perfection, Estrojam’s goal is to give women the freedom to produce their art in whatever form they wish. Whether you’re into music, crafts or activism, the Estrojam Music and Cultural Festival provides an empowering forum for those who wince at the nefarious inner workings of the music industry but still dream of independent success.
From September 21-24, this wide-ranging event gives a voice to over 60 female musicians, artists, educators and activists in a four-day sweep of performances, workshops, panels, a mini film festival and more. Designed to empower, enrich and inspire female artists and audiences, the community-based event aims to celebrate the diversity of women’s self-expression.
The 2005 lineup includes performances by Amy Ray (with Jody Bleyle of Team Dresch, Will Lochamy and Les Nuby), Numbers, Brazilian Girls, Limited Express (Has Gone?) and the Octopus Project at some of Chicago’s best venues. Estrojam 2005 will also donate a portion of its earnings to the Chicago Abused Women Coalition, as well as the U.S. Campaign for Burma, which supports imprisoned Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi.
Check out Estrojam’s website at http://www.estrojam.org for more information.
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