Forever changed by displacement, forever bound by experience, the Black body pulsates with the rhythm of resilience. El ritmo que nos libre: Das almas assassinadas aos espíritos vivos (The Rhythm that Frees Us: From Murdered Souls to Living Spirits) is more than a performance; it’s an immersive experience where rhythm becomes a tangible force for liberation, identity, and unity for all participants.
This choreopoem draws inspiration from vibrant cultural traditions of Cuba, Brazil, Panama and Puerto Rico, where music and dance become expressions of political resistance, identity navigation, and connection for afro-descendant peoples. Follow the story of a lost community that rediscovers their collective identity through a collection of artifacts, each piece an active memory and a living testament to the enduring spirit of communities uprooted and reborn. Together, they reclaim their rhythm, their spirit, their home.
But this is only part of the journey. Become a collaborator before the show even begins. Explore the interactive installation showcasing the artifacts, their stories, and the rhythms they carry. Experiment with traditional sounds, learn from practitioners, and contribute your own creative reimagination to the space.
El ritmo que nos libre is an invitation: connect with the past, celebrate the present, and envision a future where the Black body is no longer alone. It’s a call to action, reminding us that even in the face of displacement, rhythm remains a constant force in the struggle for liberation.
Join us, and discover the rhythm that frees us all.
Tickets for Performances
Performance times:
- March 29 at 7 PM
- March 30 at 3 PM
- March 30 at 7 PM
All three performances are free and open to the public; tickets are required.
Get free tickets through University Ticketing
Exhibition Details
A free, interactive installation accompanying the performances will be available in the CoLab:
- March 25-29, open daily from 10 AM – 6 PM
Photo Gallery
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Photo by Ron Wyatt
Directions
Get directions to the CoLab, located on the Forum level of the Lewis Arts complex.
Accessibility
The CoLab is an accessible venue. Visit our Venues and Studios section for accessibility information at our various locations. Guests in need of access accommodations are invited to contact the Lewis Center at 609-258-5262 or email LewisCenter@princeton.edu at least one week in advance of the event date.
