Pioneer in the Valley: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

In life, many of us seek out enriching experiences and fascinating people we can spend our time with. Sometimes, however, these people and experiences seem to walk right through our door as if in a moment of historic unexpected fate. As is the case, quite literally, with my friend Shira Erlichman. Shira walked through my door about 6 months ago, as she lives in the apartment underneath us. However, it turns out that Shira is one of the most uniquely creative and inspired people I have ever encountered.

An accomplished poet and musician, Shira was bred amongst the underground Whitehaus Family of artists and musicians in Jamaica Plain, Ma. She uses words and music to convey experience and imagination in often jaw-dropping ways. Her imagery, projection, control of language, and graceful humility have made her a must-see on the local scene.

We recently attended a performance of The Spilljoy ensemble, the four-piece poetry group that Shira is currently touring with which includes poets Danny Sherrard (Seattle), Jon Sands (New York City), and Ken Arkind (Denver). It is an understatement to say these four were provocative, and at center stage was the little girl from downstairs with a booming voice and a heavy heart. She spoke with passion, indulgence, and often times a great deal of humor. Her poetry and delivery are so polished, she seems as though she is much older than she is.

Following the performance, Shira and I had a phone conversation. Here's how it went.

Mike - What has it been like to be on tour with the Spilljoy Ensemble?

Shira - It’s been awesome. We’re in a different place, performing for different audiences almost every night. They all have just been so amazing.

Mike - What's the writing process like for Shira Erlichman?

Shira - For me it's always unfolding. Sometimes the words come like torrential waters and I feel like I am just lucky when the flood gates break. Other times I feel like it is like Chinese water torture. Mostly if it’s not happening I let it rest. I really like to play a lot. I think playing is when I'm most productive.

Mike - Which seems to come more natural to you, writing music or poetry?

Shira - It's not really pinpointable. I have had summers where I have written forty songs and can't seem to eek out a single poem. However, there have been summers that are completely the other way around. It is all just about the mood I am in.

Mike - What expectations do you have for yourself as a writer? How do you want to be perceived?

Shira - I hope that my writing opens language up to kind of dance and it does freaky fire storm kinds of things. I hope that it opens the way we see things. Most of all, I hope that I can make people uncomfortable and leave their safety net.

Mike - Would you rather be at home or on the road?

Shira - I have really liked the road. I think most of my difficulties lie in the stagnancy. When I’m on the road, I'm doing what I want to do and what I love to do. It all is falling into place because I want to do it. I wake up every morning and I am excited. That's a terrific feeling.

So at this point you are probably so excited for the opportunity to be Shira's neighbor too, if even just for a night. Well you're in luck. I know a few ways you can get to know Ms. Erlichman.

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WITH THE SPILLJOY ENSEMBLE

Feb 17 2009
8:00P
Miami University - Leonard Theater inside Peabody Hall***Jon’s Mom’s Birthday Show!***
Oxford, Ohio

Feb 18 2009
7:00P
The Focal Point
St. Louis, Missouri

Feb 19 2009
8:00P
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas

Mar 7 2009
8:00P
Ong King Arts Center - An Evening with the SpillJoy Ensemble
Honolulu, Hawaii

Mar 26 2009
8:00P
University of Alaska/Anchorage
Anchorage, Alaska