On June 19, 2019 from 8-11pm, the Worship of Water Dance Ensemble will be performing on the streetcar level of the Detroit Superior Bridge. This performance is part of a special preview night for the Cuyahoga50 Celebration and the first opportunity to see an immersive lighting installation by UK-based artists, Squidsoup. The preview event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. REGISTER HEREThe Worship of Water is an exploration of the spiritual rituals in honoring water. The Orisha deity Yemoja or Yemayá, is honored by the Yoruba people of Nigeria and those who practice Yoruba and Santeria across Brazil, the Caribbean and the Americas. Yemoja is the deity of water, femininity, and the protector of women and children. She is honored in celebrations through dance, altars, spoken word, and rituals.

The Worship of Water is an attempt to learn from the practice of honoring water so that we may develop a healthier relationship to our waterways. Yemoja serves as our reminder to re-connect with water and to remember what an important role it plays in our daily life. We dance on the edge of one of the largest bodies of freshwater on our planet. May we embrace the responsibility to care for water so that it can provide us with life for future generations to come. Many hands, minds, and spirits who shaped this work, including Parade the Circle staff at the Cleveland Museum of Art who provided an encouraging presence in guiding this project. Thank you to those among us who honor Yemoja and honor water, so we may approach the next 50 years caring for our lakes and rivers with admiration and respect.