At the 2025 edition of NewDANCEfest, we had the opportunity to sit down with guest artist Cameron McKinney to discuss the powerful work he restaged with festival participants. In FATHER ABSENCE | MOTHER MA, McKinney uses choreography and movement as a means of healing, exploring the loss and absence of his birth father. The piece also draws inspiration from the Japanese concept of ma—the artistic idea of empty space as a meaningful, positive presence. Through this lens, McKinney pays tribute to the influential women in his life, creating a deeply personal and resonant work.
Video footage & edit by Allison Armfield
