Through Re:Construct, Jin Kim (Artistic Director) and Joe Chey (Music Director) sought to reinterpret the University’s beloved tradition song, “The Good Old Song,” in a way that celebrates the progress it has made so far, and paints an optimistic future in which the University will enable students to develop and pursue their dreams and ideals. This was done through a unique musical arrangement of the song (for 1 piano, 1 bass, 4 trash cans), and visual arrangements (fashion, film) that match the forward-looking, innovative, and adventurous mood of the music.

From the beginning, this 6-month multidisciplinary performance art project saw a high level of interest from a variety of prospective audiences, including students, faculty/staff, as well as other members of the Charlottesville community. The first such indication was seen in our opportunity to present at the “Charlottesville SOUP,” a crowdfunding initiative by New City Arts designed to help enrich the arts in and around Charlottesville. During its 8-year history, we were the fourth student group to present at the event, and it was a significant point during the project where we were able to reaffirm our artistic vision with approximately 150 members of the Charlottesville community, as well as the other presenters, who were active professionals in the arts. Soon after, we were able to confirm sponsorship by multiple University organizations, including the The Office of the Vice Provost for the Arts, UVa Parents Fund, as well as the UVa Bicentennial.