Geraldine Keams, now professionally known simply as Geri, stands as a prominent figure in the world of Native American arts and entertainment. A full-blooded Navajo (Diné) woman, she embodies the spirit of her people through her multifaceted career as a storyteller, actress, and author. Her journey began in the arid landscapes of the Painted Desert in Arizona, leading her to become a celebrated voice and face representing Native American culture in mainstream media. The artistry and dedication of Geraldine Keams have left an undeniable mark on the entertainment industry and beyond.
Early Life and Cultural Foundation
Born and raised amidst the striking beauty of the Painted Desert, Geraldine Keams‘s upbringing was deeply rooted in Navajo traditions. Her maternal clan is Tsi’nijinnie, the Streak-of-Black-Forest Clan, and she was born for the Tl’iizi’ – Ll’annii, the Manygoats Clan. This intricate clan system is a cornerstone of Navajo identity, dictating kinship and social responsibilities. Growing up on the Navajo reservation with nine siblings, her early life was markedly different from many of her contemporaries. The absence of television allowed for a deeper connection to the land and the oral traditions of her people.
Keams attended boarding schools in northern Arizona, both on and near the reservation. These institutions, while often controversial due to their assimilation policies, provided her with formal education while simultaneously exposing her to the challenges of navigating two distinct cultures. It was her grandmother, a skilled rug weaver and captivating storyteller, who ignited in Geri a passion for preserving and sharing Navajo legends and cultural practices. The rhythmic movements of the loom and the enchanting cadence of her grandmother’s voice instilled in her a deep appreciation for her heritage, fueling her future artistic endeavors.
Academic Pursuits and Theatrical Beginnings
Geraldine Keams pursued her passion for the arts by enrolling at the University of Arizona, where she earned a degree in Drama and Film. This academic foundation provided her with the technical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to pursue a career in the performing arts. Following her graduation, she ventured to New York City in the 1970s, a vibrant hub for artistic expression and innovation. There, she honed her craft and immersed herself in the world of theatre.
A pivotal moment in her early career was her involvement with the Native American Theatre Ensemble (NATE). This groundbreaking company provided a platform for Native American actors, writers, and directors to tell their own stories and challenge stereotypical representations in mainstream media. Keams not only performed with NATE but also co-wrote "Nahaaszan," a stylized theatrical production that explored the profound depths of the Navajo origin story. This marked her emergence as a playwright and a powerful voice for her people.
A Trailblazing Playwright
Geraldine Keams‘s contributions to the world of theatre extend beyond her work with NATE. She is widely regarded as the first Native American woman to write and produce a stage play, a groundbreaking achievement that paved the way for future generations of Native American playwrights. Her play, "The Flight of The Army Worm," garnered critical acclaim for its insightful exploration of Native American identity and contemporary issues.
Her plays have been published in numerous anthologies across the globe, further solidifying her reputation as a significant voice in contemporary theatre. Her work often tackles themes of cultural preservation, historical trauma, and the challenges faced by Native American communities in the modern world. Through her writing, she aims to educate, inspire, and foster a deeper understanding of Native American perspectives.
Cinematic Achievements
While her theatrical work is highly regarded, Geraldine Keams is perhaps best known for her accomplishments as a film actress. Her career took off in 1976 with a co-starring role in the classic Western, "The Outlaw Josey Wales," directed by and starring Clint Eastwood. In the film, she played Moonlight, a Native American woman who becomes part of Josey Wales’s makeshift family. This role brought her national recognition and opened doors to further opportunities in the film industry.
Over the years, she has appeared in a diverse range of films, including "The Car" (1978) with James Brolin, a horror film about a killer car, and "Walks Far Woman" (1987), with Raquel Welch, a historical drama where Welch portrays a white woman who is captured and raised by Native Americans. These roles showcased her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her portrayals of Native American characters.
Television Appearances and Consulting Work
In addition to her film work, Keams has also made numerous appearances on television. She had a role in the cult classic "Twin Peaks" (1995), and played Ed’s aunt in "Northern Exposure" (1998). These appearances further broadened her audience and solidified her presence in the entertainment industry.
Her expertise in Native American culture has also led to consulting roles on various projects. She served as a consultant on the Disney animated feature "Pocahontas," providing valuable insights into the portrayal of Native American characters and culture. She also consulted on Tony Hillerman’s "Skinwalkers" for PBS, ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the depiction of Navajo traditions and beliefs.
In more recent years, she has co-starred in several television productions, including Disney Channel’s "Buffalo Dreams" (2006), Showtime Cable’s "Edge of America" (2005), and CBS and Hallmark Entertainment’s "Comanche Moon" (2007).
Storytelling and Children’s Literature
Beyond acting, Keams is a renowned storyteller, dedicated to preserving and sharing Navajo legends with audiences of all ages. She has toured the world with her children’s show, "Native Legends Come Alive," captivating audiences with her engaging performances and her ability to bring ancient stories to life.
She has been featured at prestigious venues such as The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and The Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C., and The National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee. She is also a resident performing and workshop artist for The Los Angeles Music Center, where she shares her knowledge and passion with aspiring young artists.
Keams is also the author of two well-known children’s books: "Grandmother Spider Brings the Sun" and "Snail Girl Brings Water." These beautifully illustrated books introduce young readers to Navajo legends and cultural values, fostering a sense of appreciation for Native American traditions.
A Cultural Ambassador
Throughout her career, Geraldine Keams has remained committed to promoting accurate and authentic representations of Native American culture. She believes in the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding and respect. She is dedicated to ensuring that each project she is involved in reflects the true spirit and voice of her people.
Currently residing in Pasadena, California, she continues to be an active voice in the Native American community and a powerful advocate for cultural preservation and artistic expression.