A Commission Rooted in Residency

The genesis of Of Dishes and Dreams can be traced back to Jinakunwiphat’s 2024 spring residency at Baryshnikov Arts. During her two-week stay, she shared preliminary explorations of the concept, captivating Sonja Kostich and Mikhail Baryshnikov with its potential. Their subsequent encouragement fueled the development of what would become her most ambitious project to date.

The Restaurant as Muse

Jinakunwiphat’s inspiration stems directly from her childhood experience as the “restaurant kid,” often found completing homework amidst the vibrant energy of her family’s establishment. “Of Dishes and Dreams is inspired by my childhood,” she explains. “I wanted to bring light to the beauty and the chaos of how kitchens are organized, especially because I love group work. It’s kind of a well-structured dance in a way.” The piece isn’t simply about a restaurant; it’s a meditation on community, collaboration, and the often-unseen labor that sustains it.

A Family Legacy and the Immigrant Experience

The restaurant itself boasts a rich history, having served the Chicago community for over 35 years. Founded by Jinakunwiphat’s grandmother, it’s now run by her parents and aunt, a testament to the enduring spirit of family enterprise. Her grandmother, though retired, remains a daily presence, oscillating between prepping ingredients and enjoying YouTube videos. Jinakunwiphat recognizes this dedication as emblematic of the immigrant work ethic. “I’m a proud child of immigrants,” she states, “so with this piece, I just want to highlight their story and how much vibrancy they bring to America.”

Chaos, Imagination, and the Art of Collaboration

Growing up immersed in the restaurant environment profoundly shaped Jinakunwiphat’s artistic sensibilities. She learned to navigate chaos, appreciate the dynamics of teamwork, and cultivate her imagination during quiet moments. “I learned a lot about how people work together. I learned to be near chaos,” she reflects. “But also, sometimes in the boredom of sitting there, I feel like I was able to tap into my imagination—I remember building things with cans and boxes and things with my sister.” This blend of structured activity and imaginative freedom is clearly reflected in her choreographic approach.

Jinakunwiphat is translating the physical layout and energy of the kitchen directly into movement. A section titled “Service” meticulously maps the restaurant’s stations – noodles, rice, and more – onto corresponding dance phrases. Adding another layer of authenticity, the score incorporates sounds recorded directly from her family’s kitchen, creating an immersive auditory experience.

Taking the Reins: A New Level of Responsibility

Producing her first evening-length piece independently presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. Jinakunwiphat draws a parallel to her father’s experience managing the restaurant, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the well-being and respect of her collaborators. “It makes me think of my dad because he’s always saying, you know, managing is hard because you’re dealing with people, right? Making sure everyone’s taken care of, respected, and heard.” She strives to emulate her parents’ inclusive and supportive leadership style.

While her family is eagerly anticipating the premiere, Jinakunwiphat acknowledges a degree of uncertainty about their understanding of dance. “I actually am not quite sure if they really know,” she admits. “They know I have a show, and they’re planning on coming. But my dad’s like, ‘I don’t really know dance—I don’t really get it.’ But I’m like, ‘You might get this one.’” This sentiment underscores the deeply personal and relatable nature of the work. What does it mean to translate a lived experience, a family history, into the abstract language of movement? And how will those whose lives inspired the work respond to its artistic interpretation?

Frequently Asked Questions About “Of Dishes and Dreams”

• What is the central theme of Keerati Jinakunwiphat’s “Of Dishes and Dreams”?

  “Of Dishes and Dreams” explores the intersection of family, immigrant experience, and the vibrant energy of a Thai restaurant kitchen, translating these themes into a compelling dance narrative.

• Where can I purchase tickets to see “Of Dishes and Dreams”?

  Tickets for the performances at Baryshnikov Arts, running from October 16–18, can be purchased directly through the Baryshnikov Arts website.

• What other companies has choreographer Keerati Jinakunwiphat worked with?

  Jinakunwiphat has created work for prestigious companies including New York City Ballet and A.I.M by Kyle Abraham, establishing her as a rising force in the contemporary dance world.

• How does Jinakunwiphat incorporate the sounds of a restaurant into her choreography?

  Jinakunwiphat has recorded authentic sounds directly from her family’s kitchen to create a unique and immersive soundscape for “Of Dishes and Dreams,” enhancing the audience’s connection to the work’s source material.

• What inspired Keerati Jinakunwiphat to create an evening-length dance piece?

  Her 2024 residency at Baryshnikov Arts provided the space and encouragement for Jinakunwiphat to develop her vision for a full-length work, culminating in the creation of “Of Dishes and Dreams.”