Through-Lineage
Through-Lineage is a solo performance, concert, ritual, and migration narrative through multiple generations and geographies of Joe’s Korean ancestry. The show is rooted in the story of Joe’s grandfather, a North Korean refugee and escaped prisoner-of-war turned textile designer. Joe connects his grandfather’s life, navigating the violent movement of empires on the Korean Peninsula, to his own life as an artist, father, and Korean American immigrant living in the Pacific Northwest. Combining intimate storytelling, tactile projection art, ritual, and improvised music, this unique, deeply personal piece premiered in October of 2026 with Risk/Reward Festival to rave reviews.
photos by Jingzi Zhao
Acclaim for Through-Lineage
“…one of the most meaningful performances I have seen. There was a moment during the music looping and the wild sounds from the strings that I was certain that you were tearing a hole in time-space. Your ancestors must be proud.” Stephanie, audience member
“Incredible, gorgeous. The pacing was delectable, graceful, grounded. Clever, detailed, and intimate projection work. Mr. Rogers meets the coolest dad in the world where the past touches the future.” Ching Ching Wong, Choreographer and Educator
“Holy sh*t. “through lineage” kicked my ass in all the good ways last night. I feel so fortunate that I was able to catch this performance…deeply (DEEPLY!) moving, personal storytelling.” JoonAe Haworth-Kaufka, Korean Adoptee writer and community organizer
“…rich, genuine, honest, meaningful and masterfully presented. Made me think about my own ancestors and family and their journeys. Bravo. ” Raul Gomez, Artistic Director of Metropolitan Youth Symphony
“Thank you for that. Amazing gift, Joe. I am without words.” Darrell Grant, musician and Professor of Music at Portland State University
“For me, this was a sacred experience.” Ronni Lacroute, patron of the Arts