National Water Dance (NWD) is set to captivate audiences once again with its 2024 event themed “Moving Forward Together.” Scheduled for April 20, 2024, at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Nature Center in Key Biscayne, this biennial celebration intertwines art, nature, and community to raise environmental awareness.
Founded in 2014 by Dale Andree, NWD has grown into a nationwide movement, uniting dancers, musicians, and visual artists across the United States. The 2024 event will feature simultaneous performances at 72 sites in 33 states, all commencing and concluding with a unified movement phrase to symbolize collective action for environmental and social justice.
In Miami, attendees will embark on an immersive journey through the Nature Center’s trails, guided by dancers, artists, and a naturalist. This exploration will culminate in a beach performance accompanied by the Miami Sound Choir, followed by a beach clean-up organized by Debris Free Oceans, and concluding with a sunset happy hour in the coral courtyard. Participants are encouraged to wear protective clothing and bring sunscreen to fully enjoy the outdoor experience.
A significant aspect of NWD’s mission is educational outreach. In collaboration with Live Arts Miami and Dream in Green, the event will showcase an Eco-Summit featuring eco-artwork created by Miami-Dade County Public Schools students. These initiatives aim to inspire action, advocacy, and dialogue around global environmental challenges, fostering a deeper connection between art and environmental stewardship among the younger generation.
Dale Andree emphasizes that the performances are designed to deepen participants’ presence in nature, encouraging a profound engagement with the environment. By guiding audiences through various natural settings and culminating in a collective performance, NWD seeks to highlight the interconnectedness of people and the planet, promoting a unified approach to environmental conservation.
For a more comprehensive understanding of National Water Dance and its upcoming events, we invite you to read the original article on Artburst Miami: