My name is Kalli. This performance is my debt.

“I Am Kalli” is the title of my solo show about my genealogical tree—about Pontos, the historic Greek homeland on the southern coast of the Black Sea, my family’s history, and what it means to stand on a stage in New York in 2026 carrying all of that.

I am the daughter of Kostas Siamidis, a well-renowned player of the Pontian lyra. Because of that, I grew up waking up and literally falling asleep to the sound of the Pontian lyra. Pontos was not something distant or abstract in my life. It was in my house, in my body, in my hearing, in the atmosphere of my childhood.

In this work, I embody myself 200 years ago. I embody my mother, my grandmother, and my ancestors. I am here because they survived. This performance is my way of saying thank you.

The piece explores Pontian Greek identity, immigration, and assimilation—and the quiet, complicated ways we carry our heritage into new lives. It has been taking shape over the past five years and will receive its first New York presentation on May 16 and 17, 2026.

The project has been awarded support from the NYFA Queens Arts Fund, which is a great honor for me. Although this is a solo performance, it is far from a solo effort. I am working with a group of talented artists and collaborators whose contributions are essential to bringing this work to life.

I am raising funds to help ensure that everyone involved is supported and fairly compensated for their work.

I would be deeply grateful for your support at any level.

Thank you for being part of bringing this home.

With gratitude,

Kalli