The History of the Future II, Franklin Furnace's second biennial presentation of today's emerging performance art stars whose work is changing cultural discourse, will honor Guy de Cointet (1934 - 1983), the French artist known for drawing encryptions, theatrical productions, and readymade language. Twenty-six artists, all Franklin Furnace alums, will present excerpts of signature pieces in this two-hour performance art extravaganza. The History of the Future II will be presented on two evenings in lower Manhattan at the Abrons Arts Center, and is part of the citywide biennial performance festival Performa 09. Downtown impresario Carmelita Tropicana will emcee The History of the Future II , introducing the following live events in her inimitable style: Nao Bustamante, Dynasty Handbag, Adam Pendleton, Deb Margolin, Shelly Mars, Cathy Weis and more. Historical video of performance art works will be presented chronologically and interspersed with the live events: Matt Mullican, Andrea Fraser, Linda Montano, Rashaad Newsome, John Malpede and John Kelly to name a few.