“In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.” —Aristotle

As the shortest day of the year, the winter Solstice marks the turning from the cold, dark days of winter to the warmer, lighter days of spring and summer. Historically, this season is a time of reflection, renewal, and community celebration. With each Solstice celebration we envision honoring the interconnectedness of our humanity as we connect with the world around us and honor those who came before us. This year’s nature-themed performance is influenced by the Haudenosaunee creation story in which the sky goddess falls to the earth during creation, eventually giving birth to Earth Mother.
The tale is captured in the painting ‘Sky Woman’, by Seneca artist Ernest Smith, created as part of the Works Progress Administration’s Indian Art Project in 1936. More information on the indigenous peoples who have passed this story through generations can be found at: oneidaindiannation.com/the-haudenosaunee-creation-story/

ZUZI! Dance will feature choreography by Cofounder and Artistic Director Nanette Robinson and special guest artists: Katharine Harts, Charlotte Adams, Leaps for Lives Dance Company, and 520 Dance Company. Live music will be performed at the show opening by harpist Megha Morganfield and during the show by musicians Heidi Wilson and Andrea Gudrune. A special guest speaker from the Audubon Society will preface the featured performance on December 21st to connect our audience with the beauty of nature and enhance the show experience. Audience members will also have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to win a free rental or guided tour from the electric bike store, Pedego, a $120 value.

This show is part of a long-standing tradition for ZUZI! to create a space and opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to work, move, learn and grow together. Participants have ranged in age from 7 to 72. This multi-generational approach to dance is rooted in ZUZI!’s belief that individual perspectives, shared and shaped with others, create a healthy community. Two featured performances will take place on December 20th and December 21st at 7:30pm at The Scoundrel & Scamp Theatre in the Historic Y at 738 N. 5th Avenue. Additional performances, including an open dress rehearsal at 6pm on December 20th and a matinee on December 21st at 1pm, welcome an audience for a pay-what-you-can donation. Admission to the featured performances is $25 for the general public or $20 for seniors, military, and students. Tickets are available online at: www.zuzimoveit.org.