Pussy Riot – Russia’s Feminist Punk Group Coming to Asbury
Hedwig creator John Cameron Mitchell to host discussion
In one of only ten U.S. appearance, the Russian feminist punk rock protest group Pussy Riot will appear at the House of Independents 8 p.m. Feb. 24.
While most known for their You Tube posted guerrilla-style performance pieces, the women will headline a discussion moderated by John Cameron Mitchell, the creator and star of “Hedwig & the Angry Inch,” House of Independents spokesman Adam Nelson said.
Founded in August 2011, the Moscow based group consists of women who stage unauthorized provocative guerrilla performances in unusual public locations.
Their performances are edited into online music videos, which have been reported widely by international media.
Themes include feminism, LGBT rights, and opposition to the policies of Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom they regard as a dictator.
On Feb 21, 2012, five members staged a performance in Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Savior to protest the Russian Orthodox Church leader’s support for Putin during his election campaign.
By March 3, members Nadezdha Tolokonnikova and Maria Alyokhina were arrested and charged with hooliganism, and two weeks later member Yekaterina Samutsevich was arrested.
On Aug 17, 2012 the three women were convicted of “hooliganism motivated by religious hatred” and sentenced to two years imprisonment.
The trial and sentence attracted criticism, particularly in the West.
Their case was adopted by human rights groups, including Amnesty International who called the women prisoners of conscience. A number of prominent entertainers spoke in support of the women’s plight.
By October 10, 2012 Samutsevich won her appeal and was freed on probation. Her sentence was suspended. But it wasn’t until Dec 23, 2013, after serving 21 months that Tolokonnikova and Alyokhina were released after the state duma approved an amnesty.
Pussy Riot members now travel the word more so for speaking engagements than for their notable protests.
The $40 tickets for the 8 p.m. show are available via House of Independents’ website. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information about Pussy Riot, visit their Facebook page.
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