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WATER FLOWING TOGETHER
THE FILMTHE MAKING OFTHE FILMMAKERTALKBACK
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Talkback

Is Jock Soto a "typical" ballet dancer? Why or why not? Share your response and your reactions to WATER FLOWING TOGETHER.

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Submissions will be posted here regularly, so visit again to read more.


Independent Lens Talkback: Water Flowing Together

This film told, with stunning clarity, the story of a child growing up with a gift and the passion and courage to allow it to flourish! This is a, not to be missed, gem of a film. Perhaps all of us could learn to honor those gifts we have been given in such a magnificent way. Bravo!

Posted by: Alice Keane on May 01, 2008


I was so moved by the story of this extraordinary man. Enjoy your retirement. Accept my condolences on your mother's passing. Hope to see you on the Food Network soon!!!

Posted by: Cecilia on April 29, 2008


This film was so well done-like a wonderful fillet mignon(ha-ha)! I didn't miss my calling as a comedian or a dancer. But this gorgeous man answered his! Gorgeous in spirit as well as in form.

I've never seen a dancer quite like Mr.Soto. I found him completely mesmerizing. So beautiful,so compelling,you can't take your eyes off him.
I never wanted the film to end-the contrast between NYC and the reservation. His sadness at the completion of his performance career and transition into teacher and caterer.

I,too,wonder about happened in the life of his older brother. So sorry to learn of the passing of his Mother-he looks so much like her. Also hope the pain in the tendons near his elbows will be healed with time and treatment-as well as other ailments from such a physically punishing career. God continue to Bless You,Jock.Thank You for this wonderful film,Gwen Cates,Jock,and others,I'd imagine.

Posted by: Marie on April 26, 2008


I LOVED this documentary! Although I appreciated every bit of it, my favorite part was the rehearsal between Jock and Wendy Whelan. I could watch that over and over again. It was such pure dance, so honest, and so beautiful. Thank you for this wonderful program. I intend to purchase the DVD so I can watch it again and again!

Posted by: Deborah Passman on April 23, 2008


Just had to tell you how much I enjoyed "Water Flowing Together". The story of Jock Sato and dance. the film was exquisite and I was pinned to my screen. Thank you for all the talent put together to make this film. I was totally engrossed and captivated in the career of Jock Sato and touched by his talent and the person he is. At the end of the film I wanted to know how to get in touch with Jock as I felt I wanted to congratulate him and say Thank You for being who you are. I also would like to know where his new career is taking him. The ending of the film gave me the information I needed but I even wanted more. Thank you so much for making this film available and bravo to Gwendolen Cotes for her immense talent in bringing Jock Sato to those who had not previously know him. Her talent shined in every second of this film. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. Edith Rae Brown

Posted by: Anonymous on April 21, 2008


I was spellbound by this amazing film. I have always loved Jock Soto, but did not know his story. As a former professional modern dancer in NYC and now a high school dance teacher in the Boston Public Schools, I want my students (whose backgrounds are very diverse) to see this film.

Posted by: Anonymous on April 21, 2008


I grew up 1 mile from the Navajo Rez. I have precepted many Navajo students. The film was enlightening to know a young Navajo actually got a scholarship and was fortunate to complete the NYC school of ballet. I can only wish that this could be the case for the many talented and intelligent young Navajo students that want to go to college and don't have the scholarships or funding. Please encourage more scholarships for the arts on the Rez, per President Shirley.

Posted by: Janell Schilz-Winbray on April 21, 2008


Independent Lens is awesome! Water Flowing Together was a most beautiful documentary of a magnificent artist. I watched thinking Jock looked Native American, Hispanic, Asian. How excited I was too see that he was, like myself, Navajo! How inspirational his story is. I picked up my phone and tried to call others to tune in. I told everyone who would listen the following day about the show. For sure, I will be ordering my dvd copy. The story of his life was told so that we get to know him. I love when he goes onto the Navajo reservation after so long a time. I know the feeling he talked about. I cried along with him as he teared up about his final performance. How proud Jock made me feel of himself and our heritage. The film was everything I love. Heritage,art,New York, a life that knows it's gift and gives it to the world to enjoy. The best of what life has to give to you Jock for you have apparently given us your best!!

Posted by: Selina M. Curley on April 16, 2008


I am not a ballet aficionado. I had never heard of Jock Soto. However, the film captivated my interest from the onset. There is just once loose end that is bothering me. At the beginning it mentions that Jock had a brother. The film never mentions what happened to that brother. It would have been interesting to contrast his brother's life (especially if he remained on the reservation)with Jock's.

Posted by: Al in Orange County CA on April 16, 2008


can you show some of his dances on PBS? how is it many of us have never heard of this remarkable man? this is a failing of the media who had rather write about inane political issues than show a program that is so good for the soul. that is the value of the arts, as we all know.
please do what you can to show more of his performances,please.
betsy

Posted by: betsy lawson on April 15, 2008


I graduated from a 4-year ballet degree school on the East Coast, and Jock Soto is the most exquisite, breath-taking dancer I've ever seen. So many dancers are technically correct, but fewer and fewer dance with meaning and intensity - particularly with partners.

I wish that Jock's dance had been more widely touted during his main performance years, that he could have received more emotional and financial rewards which he deserves for his work.
Jock has my undying respect and complete admiration, but I wish it could be even more.

I have always appreciated the sacredness which happens during arts rehearsals, so I am grateful the filmmaker caught, upclose, the mindfulness and sublime spirituality in Jock's touch between fingers and skin, the sacred expression and meaning exuded from every one of his nerve endings and into his partners' bodies. He made his partners look exquisite, but it was his spirit that makes the movement consummately perfect. His lifts are incomparably fluid and perfectly light, and his partnering an otherwise unobtainable mix of framing/encircling which never encumbers turns or balance -- he "simply" provides the flawless liquid extension of the partner's forward motion. His dance almost induces trance; inspires awe, hums with perfect sacred meaning. Sacred, sacred movement, perfection. Namaste`, namaste`. Jock's perfection is completely absorbing; it makes my spirit pray, cry, sing, exult, pray again and again.

The torture of Balanchine's training made me cry with Jock at the end. Finally, footage of the sacrifices which "classically" trained dancers have somehow endured, beyond belief or physics. A few of Balanchine's (later) dancers have been exploring training methods to avoid the physical and mental damages inflicted by the "old school" methods. I hope we humans can again touch the sacred expression of Jock's beautiful dance, and treat ourselves with the sacredness which Jock's dance so profoundly expresses.

Posted by: Karen in Montana on April 14, 2008


Jock is a "typical" ballet dancer only in respect to his complete devotion to his art. Jock is untypical because he is uniquely gifted and his ballet career has been absolutely remarkable. Jock's personal story makes him who he is - a rare talent and a truly lovely and genuine person.

I was fortunate enough to see Jock's farewell performance. I witnessed near-pandemonium in the theater lobby as people tried to locate any available tickets. During the performance, ballet patrons wept desolately. When the performance was all-too-soon over, the ovation was thunderous. There will never be another ballet dancer like Jock Soto. I wish you only the best my friend.

Posted by: Kylie Larkin on April 14, 2008


I watched the show today without knowing anything.
Wow, I am stunned by the material. Unbelievable, taste, everything. I am just coming together from watching this. Thank you, thank you, thank you...

Posted by: George Chryssanthou on April 14, 2008


What an intriguing film! While I rarely watch television, last night was a sleepless night in which I decided to turn the television on to pass the hours. I came across the beatufil story about Jock Soto.

Not knowing anything about Jock or ballet, I initially kept my finger on the remote-- to never use it. The warmth, depth, and passion captured by the filmmaker captivated not only my eyes, but also my heart. It was delightful.

Had I known of Jock before his retirement, I would certainly have booked tickets to see him perform on stage.

Posted by: Justin from Montana on April 14, 2008


INDEPENDENT LENS on PBS Channel 56 at April 13 from 11:30PM-12:30AM was a great lesson to me, Alan Owens. I saw a lot of myself in Jack Soto. Like Jack Soto I have had a long career and want to retire and teach. I have joined a professional teaching company and own a business; all after my career was over.

With the help of Independent Lens, seeing Jack Soto revealed a lot about myself to me. This met Jack is a great artist. This is what artists do-show the world itself. I am a schizoprenic; a mental illnes I have had to live most of adult life. Thank you Jack Soto for your art and story.

Posted by: Alan Owens on April 14, 2008


I grew up in New Mexico and, like some of these other posters, had not heard of Jock specifically. However, I regret that, as my own Anglo mother saw to it that I attended regular performances of works like THE NUTCRACKER, SWAN LAKE, etc. in Albuquerque at UNM Popejoy Hall. Also, Jock brought fresh and real
respectability and authenticity to both the Navajo Nation (who are a wonderful part of my customer base where I work now) AND to the GLBT community. May the Great Spirit always fully bless Jock and Luis there.

Posted by: James S on April 14, 2008


I was too tired to watch. I watched. Riveting documentary film-making;riveting subject. Thank you so much.

Posted by: Deborah Forbes on April 14, 2008


Echo all the comments. Some said it far better than I could. Mr. Soto is truly an artist. He changed my perceptions of ballet. Deeply moving.

Posted by: Linda Sue on April 14, 2008


Is Jock Soto a "typical" ballet dancer? What is typical? I am a painter not a dancer, I know not what is typical in ballet except all of the dancers wear ballet shoes. Yet, as a painter, he is the paint on the canvas. You look at him and he is full of color, light, and the emotion that he evokes is fulfilled with the fluidity of his body. I shed tears watching him dance.

To Jock Soto I thank you!

For every dance you danced, you danced for the love of your art. It was beautiful. Your spirit and heart really did merge like water flowing together...

Posted by: Krissy on April 14, 2008


WOW! It is late Sunday evening, I'm having a hard time falling asleep so I turn on the TV and begin channel surfing, lucky for me or else I would not have stumbled onto this wonderful film. I am so happy to say that I now know of this talented, driven, inspirational and just an all around cool guy. I was so moved by this film that I got up and went to my computer to share these thoughts. Now that's a compelling film! I hope to see Jock on the Food Network someday. We all should remember to be passionate about our dreams. Thanks for making this film, Pam

Posted by: pam on April 14, 2008


I was honored to host the showing of Water Flowing Together in August 2007 at RainbowVision in Santa Fe, New Mexico with my dear friends Jock, Mama Jo and Papa Joe. The Soto's are very special people and have brought much happiness and love into my life. Mama Jo died last month after a five year battle with cancer. This film is dedicated to his parents. Thank you Gwendolyn and PBS. Peace & Love, Kim

Posted by: Kim in Santa Fe, NM on April 14, 2008


I lived, and taught public school art for fourteen years from 1966-1980, in Shiprock, NM (north of Gallup) where I became immersed in the Navajo Culture.
As a child I grew up in western Massachusetts where I (and my older sister) had been exposed to Balanchine and the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo many times because my mother had been a ballerina before she married and had children.

This a beautiful documentary that captures the artistic and spiritual soul of an extraordinary Native American with enormous natural talent. I definitely felt a strong spiritual kinship to Jock watching the film. I hope PBS will repeat it.

Posted by: Amber Del Vitto on April 13, 2008


What a credit for Ms Cates for having put together such a moving story about a such a great dancer. She and Jock Soto are what make New York City and its arts offerings so stunning.

Posted by: Kirkpatrick MacDonald on April 13, 2008


What an amazing film about an amazing person. I've had no exposure to ballet, except for my brief stint in class at age 8. I'm so grateful this film allowed me to experience, if only briefly, Mr. Soto's dance, family and wonderful spirit. Thank you for sharing him with me.

Posted by: pat merewether on April 13, 2008


It's films such as this that bring home why PBS is so important, and why it's important to support the people who produce wonderful films such as this. You don't get information such as this ANYwhere. I had no idea Jock Soto even existed. Watching Independent Lens is like biting fruit from the tree of knowledge. I want to buy this film, or at least rent it on Netflix so that I can watch this man over and over again. Maybe he's not a "typical" ballet dancer - he's not lithe and thin, but muscular and flexible. He's like Gene Kelley. To think of the other dancers who were not given a chance because they didn't fit some preconceived mold. Look at Jock Soto and look at what they just may have missed out on.

Posted by: Iris M. Gross on April 13, 2008


Thank you Independent Lens and Gwen Cates for telling the story of Jock Soto and helping to dispel stereotypes of Native people. It's a good thing that I did stay up to watch "Water Flowing Together" because I've heard of Jock Soto many times and I've seen him perform on television with the NYC Ballet. I've watched the documentary and I was just totally blown away!! I thank Mr. and Mrs. Soto for being so understanding of Jock's craft and ambition to become a dancer. But more importantly, Jock is such a positive role model for Gay & Lesbian Natives. Jock, I really wish you the best in your retirement from NYCB and congratulations on getting your culinary certificate. Mitakuye Oyasin-All My Relations.

Posted by: Henrietta Hudson on April 12, 2008


Recen Independent lens programs have been especially good, but when I saw Water Flowing Together, which I think is the same as the name of a place that I lived for a short time on the Navajo Nation called Toadaleana, I was captivated and was imediately transfixed by this incredible artist and story. I also lived in Chinle in the late 60s and seeing Jock there and at Canyon Dechelly was very exciting. I have never before been drawn to ballet, but this story drew me to it and to his incredible story and spirit. I can only say that he has found the Beauty Way of Navajo Ceremonial Tradition tranformed. John Irwin

Posted by: John Irwin on April 12, 2008


I just saw "Water Flowing Together" on Channel 13 in NYC and I loved it. I regularly saw Jock dance at NYC Ballet because I became a subscriber around the time that he joined the company. He very quickly became one of my favorite dancers, especially when he partnered Heather Watts, and later Wendy Whelan after Heather retired. I saw him dance onstage with Ray Charles at the piano (Jesse Jackson was in the audience that night), and I was also in the audience at his retirement, crying along with everyone else. The film deals beautifully with the conundrum of Jock's decision to leave dancing while he was still wonderful onstage. I was also moved and mesmerized by the background material. I've traveled a bit in Arizona and I thought the canyon areas out there were spectacularly beautiful. I enjoyed seeing them again, and "meeting" his family. I hope Jock doesn't spend too much time feeling guilty about not learning more about his family culture up to now. He's not alone in making the choices he made, and he has time to go back and catch up while his relatives are still alive and healthy. Terrific film!

Posted by: Susan Hochberg on April 12, 2008


Having to give up my very rewarding career as a Massage Therapist and return to the "business" world, I relate to his fulfillment and his submission to inevitable loss. The biography brought tears and comfort to me. Thank you Water Flowing Together and PBS

Posted by: Karen Alder on April 12, 2008


Haunting, Spiritual, Transformative. Couldn't pry my eyes or heart from the screen while watching. Next day watched it through a second time - same experience, though this time I could breathe enough to "feel" and "touch" it's beauty.

So intimate, revealing, relatable. I know neither ballet, Jock, nor his story. But I am moved with respect and awe by it's magnificence. Such a vast landscape interwoven - the land of the Navajo people, the NYC ballet stage, the peaks and valleys of the heart - palpable and inexplainable, life Life itself . . .

Thank you for such a remarkably memorable moment. A rare and beautiful sharing.

Posted by: Bobbi on April 11, 2008


Gentle People: A highly personal and creative film.A fascinating glimpse into the ballet world.Jock is a real inspiration to those of us now moving into the retirement era of our lives-regardless of our respective callings.This was an extraordinary collaboration of a gifted film maker telling the story of a great contemporary performing artist:a marvelous production in every way.

Posted by: Todd Hupp on April 11, 2008


Having resided in the Capital District since 1981, I've had the GREAT PLEASURE of seeing Jock perform numerous times with the New York City Ballet, during their summer residency at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Jock was one of my favorite male ballet dancers and when he retired, I felt my ballet going experience would never be the same again. To learn about his past and how it shaped his dancing and spirtual being was quite a treat. Thank you for creating and airing such an intersting and informative documentary!

Posted by: Sara Harmon on April 11, 2008


Jock Soto is an atypical ballet dancer, and I think Gwendolen Cates brought that point and so much more to WATER FLOWING TOGETHER, in a beautiful, gentle way. We usually only know superficial things about incredibly talented individuals, but this film presented the undercurrents of Jock's life with finesse. In the tradition of Native Indian storytelling: Like holding your hand underwater in a river, learning how to touch trout, then tickle them, then hold them. I was awed by Jock Soto and Gwendolen Cates! Thank you both.

Posted by: Charlie Lau on April 11, 2008


I stumbled across this amazing documentary film on Jock Soto about 3am this morning as I was going to bed. I tried to fall asleep, but I couldn't because I was completely drawn to him as a person and by his experiences.

He was one of the most amazing dancers that I've ever seen in my entire life, and he is definitely a living legend.
Although Jock may not have the typical "look" or "body type" his talent is so atypical that it seems as though he transcends everything that has come before him. He is in a category by himself, and he should remain there because he wears a crown that few will ever get close to obtaining. Amazing piece that truly moved the soul.

Posted by: Taj on April 10, 2008


I'm sad I never had the opportunity to see Jock perform on stage in person but I'm possibly more saddened that I never knew who he was until seeing the documentary. There is no way I could top the greatest of reviews he received for performing his craft so I won't try; rather I will say he turned an otherwise lazy night in front of a TV into something I will never forget. It is just amazing to see the best performers of any art show you why they're the best and many thanks to PBS for showing us one of the best in dance.

Posted by: Shawn Calabrese on April 10, 2008


What an inspirational story! Jock, I am sorry to say that I didn't even know we had a famous ballet dancer among our mist. Sometimes whether they be films or documentary but in a lot of cases when Native American stories are told, its usually about some Native American Flutist or someone who does art work. It is nice to hear about other Native Americans who's talent lies elsewhere other than the "usual." I am also Navajo, and work as a Finance Manager in the state of Oklahoma. I wanted to express my thoughts on Mr. Soto's ambition and career path. I am so proud of you, Jock for following your dream and being a great role model in showing that with hard work one can attain and fulfill a desired passion. It is nice to know that someone close to my own hometown can be such a success (I am from Round Rock). To answer your question, I believe Jock is more than just a typical ballet dancer I believe he truly set the bar. I wish you nothing but the best in life, Jock.

Posted by: Brenda Allen-DuBoise on April 10, 2008


I happened upon this film in passing and immediately found myself mesmerized by the grace and beauty of the film, and of the man. The quiet honest manner in which this film was shot, and the spirit that exudes from Jock was absolutely breathtaking. I found myself drawn into this life and this film, and captivated by all it offered. My accolades to both the filmmaker, and Jock. Thank you!

Posted by: Elizabeth on April 10, 2008


I remember seeing the preview for the show the week before. I was barely paying attention to the tv when I heard the narrarator say that this beautiful ballet dancer was Native American. I couldn't believe it. A Navajo at that too. I've lived in Oklahoma all my life but spent spent my summers growing up about 15 minutes west of Chinle.


I made sure to tape the show when it aired, and I've watched it about 3 times since then. I cannot get over how incredibly beautiful Jock Soto is when he dances. It reminded me of the first time I seen Stevie Ray Vaughan play the guitar, which was also on PBS. When you watch them perform, it's like there's a light shining straight down on them from God and you can't take your eyes off them. What a gift it must be to be blessed with such an incredible talent that you can share with the world. I just wanted to let Ms. Cates and Mr. Soto know how much this film meant to me and how proud I am to be a Dine.

Posted by: April on April 10, 2008


WATER FLOWING TOGETHER gave a great look to Jock's great gift to the Ballet community. It was a very touching ending to see Jock come to realization of knowing he would not perform on stage again. (I am one of the unfortunate people who never saw him in his 24 year career. Bravo! Jock. Que Dos te bendiga.

Posted by: Anonymous on April 10, 2008


I may have heard of Jock before... I am not sure. What counts is that I know who Jock Sotto now. I just watched the film, it was amazing, inspiring, and I loved every part of it! I only wish it was longer. Thank you for sharing this story of dreams, determination, belief, charisma, understanding, culture, and family. Thank you for sharing!

Posted by: helly on April 10, 2008


The most wonderful viewing experience I have ever had. It was so engaging. I was touched and couldn't talk or move during the entire film. I am 45 years old, and this film made me feel validated, for some reason I don't know.

Posted by: John S on April 10, 2008


I was so moved by this story of Jock. I've always loved dance and going to the ballet but it's been a long time since I've attended a dance performance. Jock is such a beautiful human being who for me dispelled my stereotypes of dancers as being self absorbed, egotistical people and an exclusive group. (Not that I ever held it against them, but you know, we all have our stereotypes). And, most importantly, I've been inspired to rush out and see a ballet right away!!! Thank you Jock for sharing your story. I wish you continued success and love.

Posted by: Jenny on April 10, 2008


Thank you for this documentary on Mr. Soto. I think that it was beautifully told and wonderfully expressed the man behind the magic of dance. I was truly touched when he became emotional the last three days before he actually retired. I wanted to reach through my tv and give him a big hug. Please if you can get in touch with him, let him know that he has inspired me to continue on with my dream. I love people of his calliber and statue. He is an inspiration to all who sturggle to attain their dreams at the cost of loosing touch with those you love. Be encouraage and much success to you and your partner in your resturant.

Posted by: Sharon Gorham on April 10, 2008


I enjoyed this Independent Lens so much. I especially enjoyed watching Mr. Soto with his family. I hope he does get his own cooking show on the food network.

Posted by: Leslie Spires on April 10, 2008


First let me say that I am sorry I never had the chance to see Jock Soto perform live. I know I would have had "goose bumps" I enjoyed the way he moved in the film, both solo and with various partners. I understand what a loss he must have felt when he retired. I pray he is able to feel the joy and fulfillment he received from dance in his "new life." You were blessed with a unique talent that you were able to share with the world. Thank you.

Posted by: Rochelle Vedres on April 10, 2008


Amazing person, amazing talent. Two thumbs up. Can't wait for the sequel.

Posted by: Sandra Barraza on April 10, 2008


I came across this last evening on my local PBS and was drawn in to this remarkable person and his story. Long an admirer of the discipline and beauty of dancing, I really enjoyed every aspect of this documentary. Thank you for bringing us this.

Posted by: NEShockley on April 09, 2008


I love this story. Jock is so lucky that he was able to live his dream. What are the chances that a young man from the reservation could become a famous ballet dancer? All the stars were aligned for Jock-an accessible ballet school; a father who drove him to the school and waited for him; a scholarship that allowed him to devote his full attention to art; a host of people who provided support and opportunities; a community that was open to his sexuality. Of course Jock's success is due to his own hard work as well as luck. I wish him continued success.

Posted by: sandra m on April 09, 2008


Stunning, riveting and compelling. I didn't want it to end. So wonderful to see a person who is so inspiring and such a good role model.

Posted by: Charlene Wooden on April 09, 2008


Beautiful Real People--I couldn't take my eyes off the film and watched it back to back on two different PBS stations. Soto and Cates-THANK YOU for sharing your ART.

Posted by: Heather Lewis on April 09, 2008


The filmmaker and the ballet artist wove a story of poetry, song and art. It was so beautifully done and inspiring. Jock's abiliy to capture the soul of being a human is re-affirming. I hope a dvd is created, so that I might be able to watch it, from which to draw some hope. For some reason, it kept bringing me back to my father and all the blessed memories we had together. Maybe, because he had such a deep understanding and love of poetry and understood the complexities of our exsistence. Thank you for choosing to film Jock as a subject and Jock, thank you for giving this world your love.

Posted by: Cathy Croyle on April 09, 2008


I wish to thank both the makers of this film and Jock Soto for a very uplifting and tender look at his life. As a gay 40 something Puerto Rican (New Yorican) from NYC now living in Florida I was empressed on how Jock followed his dream faced obsticles and has come into a new chapter in his life. Thank you so much for bringing joy and insight seeing you dance over the years and the fortitute to begin a new course in the second part of your life. I wish you all the best and I thank you again for sharing your story with the world.

Posted by: Javier DeClet on April 09, 2008


I stayed up especially late to watch Jack's story. I enjoyed learning about him and his dedication to his craft. Balancing our unique individual heritage and modern endeavors is a universal dynamic universal to everyone. Blessings come in many forms, many more blessings to Jack. New beginnings indeed. I'm his age and can identify with him on various issues being gay and native. Best wishes Jack...

Posted by: Edion Whiteplume on April 09, 2008


Thank you for this wonderful film. Jock, thank you for your good spirit. you truly live up to your family name. c.

Posted by: c. hope on April 09, 2008


I really enjoyed this film (even though my TV no longer gets the vision part. On the other hand, there are only two stations out here in Alaska). Not only is Jock an interesting person but the film presents him and his family as the richly complex beings they are (and thankfully not as the usual simplistic treatment given of Native people.)

Now i'll have to find out more about him.

Thank you.

Posted by: mpb on April 09, 2008


What a lovely story, and what a wonderful film.

Posted by: Kevin on April 09, 2008


What an amazing story. I was truly engaged in how candid Jock was about going back to the reservation. To his relationship with his parents and respect for how they helped him to start his AMAZING career. What a remarkable person. I hate to say it but I had never heard of him prior to this documentary. Now, I am glad to know of him and hope only the most wonderful things for him. One moment that was so profound for me was when he called the culinary school and was told that he needed a hs diploma then felt as if he had accomplished nothing. How unreal that seemed to me that someone so accomplished could feel even a drop of this incertainty was very profound to me. Thank you for a really nice film and the opportunity to see this man.

Posted by: P on April 09, 2008


Watching the film was like watching a soulmate live a life he was meant to live- and yearn for more.

Love and best wishes for the future successes of both Jock and the filmmaker. The film was more than an enchanting story that deserves to be told, it was a privilege to watch two artists balance each other so remarkably.

Posted by: Ashley Rodriguez on April 09, 2008


Thank you Jock for your beauty, your magic and humanity. You made me feel proud to be a gay latino artist. You are a complete inspiration to us all.

Bravo querido Jock!

Benito Pastoriza Iyodo

Posted by: Benito Pastoriza Iyodo on April 09, 2008


I believe Jock Soto to be not only a role model for young students, but to us all. He was an outstanding young man who despite all odds rose to become a great man with a distinguished career. We could all learn quite a bit from Mr. Soto. His affectionate nature with his father was very touching. If I told my father that not only was I gay, but I wanted to dance ballet, I can assure he wouldn't be as understanding. Mr. Soto you are a model human and a model American. I wish you the best in all of your endeavours.

-m@

Posted by: Matt Runge on April 09, 2008


What a beautiful dancer, and a person at heart, personality, and appearance. Wonderfully presented.

Posted by: Eric Fitz on April 09, 2008


I do not know what a "typical ballet dancer" is supposed to be like. All I can say is that I was truly moved by the story of Jock Sotto. He took the tremendous risk of being rejected by his own people, the artistic community, and proceeded to follow his dream regardless. I truly admire his courage, his committment, and his talent. Near the end of the program, Jock felt that he had accomplished "nothing" when told he needed a high school diploma to enroll in culinary school. Jock, you lived out your dream, you were able to beat so many odds, and became such an acclaimed dancer in one of the world's premier ballets! There are countless people with "advanced" degrees who cannot say they have fulfilled their dreams. You are an inspiration to me, and of course to those you've taught. Your legacy will live on.

Posted by: Silvia Ybarra on April 09, 2008


I wanted to go to bed at 10 tonight, but just before turning in, I saw Jock Soto on TV. I couldn't take my eyes off him and his dancing. I love to watch ballet, but I do not know that much about who is who in the ballet world. I am glad I got a little glimpse into his life. Before I knew his ethnicity, I thought he was Latino, and maybe Native American, but also Asian. I love the way his looks kind of morph into the parts he plays. His love and respect for the women he danced with was obvious too. I did not always get that impression of dancers when my niece was involved in dance. The beauty of two bodies working in that kind of harmony is breathtaking. His parents were interesting, and it is inspiring to see that rifts can mend too. Anyway, thanks for a beautiful and enlightening documentary.

Posted by: Mara on April 09, 2008


I knew Jock's parents when they lived in Chinle. I didn't know where they had moved to but I was amazed that this film was showing on the Navajo Reservation. I would like to purchase a DVD but apparently there is none available right now. I believe that Jock has done an outstanding job of showing what a person can do if they believe in their talents and capabilities. I love ballet performances although there are not many that perform anywhere on the Navajo Reservation. Jock must be proud of himself and his accomplishments. I was a close friend of his two aunts who lived in Chinle probably while he was growing up in the urban areas. I recently read about him in the Navajo Times and was surprised to learn of his ballet dancing. By watching the clips here, I believe he has an amazing talent. I Congratulate him on his lengthy dancing profession with the New York Dancing Ballet group. He is certainly a role model for young students everywhere.

Editors note:

To order a DVD copy of WATER FLOWING TOGETHER and/or arrange an educational screening, contact:

jocksotofilm@gmail.com

Posted by: Dottie Francis Hobson on March 16, 2008


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