Feature Film Program

One Hand Don’t Clap

Lord Kitchener and Calypso Rose are among the musicians spotlighted in this sampling of calypso and soca music.

Tue Jun 11 7:30 PM

The Film

One Hand Don't Clap

Kavery Kaul | US | 92

One Hand Don't Clap captures the vibrant story of calypso and the emergence of soca, through the eyes of two legendary artists, Lord Kitchener, the Grandmaster of the music and Calypso Rose, the first woman to break through in a traditionally male arena. Forging onscreen the connections between American communities and where families come from, the documentary leads audiences from New York recording studies to the awesome magic of Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago. The film features artists across the 20th century whose songs reflect regional and global themes that continue to resonate. The many generations in One Hand Don't Clap trace the evolution of a musical style whose infectious rhythms and exhilarating irreverence have found their way to ever-broadening audiences worldwide.

Performer

Jonathan Michel

Jonathan Michel, a native of Connecticut and son of Haitian immigrants, cultivated his passion for music from an early age under the guidance of his father, a talented singer and guitarist. Jonathan's professional portfolio as a Bass Performer is both diverse and extensive. He has collaborated with a notable array of artists across various genres and styles, including jazz luminaries like Wynton Marsalis, vocal virtuosos such as Cecile McLorin Salvant, and Nigerian singer-songwriter Tiwa Savage. His experiences touring nationally and internationally have broadened his musical horizons and refined his craft to perfection.

A pivotal moment in Jonathan's career came with the release of his debut album, Jonathan Michel: MDR, in 2018 on Imani Records, produced by Orrin Evans. This landmark achievement underscored Jonathan's prowess as a composer and performer, earning recognition within the music industry as a recording artist and bandleader. Notable highlights include Jonathan headlining the esteemed BRIC Jazz Fest in 2023, captivating audiences with his magnetic stage presence and exceptional talent. The same year marked the debut of Jonathan Michel: Caribbean Diaspora Big Band, with sold-out shows at Dizzy’s Club in NYC, showcasing his innovative vision and musical depth.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation, Jonathan Michel continues to shape the cultural landscapes of New York City, Philadelphia, and beyond. His enduring impact on the music scene resonates far and wide, promising a legacy of inspiration for years to come.

Event Details

7:30 PM
Doors Open
8:00 PM
Live Music from Jonathan Michel
8:30 PM
Film Begins
10:00 PM
Q&A

Venue

The Louis Armstrong House Museum

34-56 107th St, Queens, NY 11368

venue on Google Map

The show presented in partnership with