Echoes from the Banks of Red Cedar is an immersive evening of dance theatre written, choreographed, and directed by Alexandria Davis. The work is a postmodern exploration rooted in a series of investigative questions explored with Michigan State University Department of Theatre students and faculty mentors about William James Beal's historic Seed Experiment and the University's legacy as a Land-Grant institution.  

The performance interweaves a series of abstract narratives inspired by social commentary about the University's approach to access, excellence, and opportunity to examine the cultural foundations and values that help shape an evolving Spartan identity. Professor Beal's groundbreaking seed experiment, which began in 1879 is one of the world's longest-running scientific experiment, serves as both a metaphor and inspiration for the performance, encouraging audiences to reflect on what lies dormant beneath the surface of our intercultural scholastic landscape and journey towards a future where AI at times seems more like an invasive species rather than a tool for innovation and progress.