Billy Martin Launches Kickstarter for ‘The Start of Wind,’ Large-Scale Theatrical Work Ft. Bamboo Orchestra, Actors and Dancers
Photo from the Not Not Jazz’ Film Poster
Billy Martin has launched a new charity fundraiser via Kickstarter. The percussionist is seeking financial support to help musicians, dancers, choreographers, and the tech crew at the Watermill Center in Watermill, N.Y., in Southampton. Money raised will fund a large-scale theatrical project, The Start of Wind, during its one-month April residency and assist performers with transportation, lodging, meals, and other essential expenses.
The Start of Wind, directed by Martin and choreographed by Anna Sperber, tells the tale of a resilient organism with archaic origins, bolstered by a bounty of artists, such as performers, dancers, actors, and a bamboo orchestra–building off Martin’s other passion, handcrafting instruments out of the fast-growing woody grass plant. View his work here.
“We need to reach our minimum goal to support our musicians, dancers, actors, choreographers, and tech crew for the month of April at the Watermill Center in Water Mill, New York. This large-scale theatrical work involves up to 25 performers, and transportation, lodging, artist fees, and meals are some of the essentials that will fund this crucial development.”
When asked about the task at hand, Martin told Relix, “This is probably one of the largest (in scope) personal artistic achievements in my lifetime. How it affects people is going to be interesting. It’s more of a spiritual journey (my wish for the audience) than is a message about nature being our teacher.”
At this time, Martin has raised $6,800 of the $23,000 goal. Donations will be accepted through Saturday, December 20, 2025. Learn more and make a financial contribution here.
