Honoring Resilience and Embracing Unity: The Enduring Legacy of the Table of Silence Project 9/11

In the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the world has continued to grapple with the profound impact of that fateful day. As the years have passed, the need to commemorate the lives lost and to cultivate a message of peace and unity has become increasingly crucial. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, in partnership with Buglisi Dance Theatre, has been at the forefront of this effort, hosting the annual free public performance of the Table of Silence Project 9/11 for over two decades.

A Poignant Ritual for Healing and Harmony

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

The Table of Silence Project 9/11 is a powerful and poignant ritual that has become a symbol of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Conceived and choreographed by Jacqulyn Buglisi, the Artistic Director of Buglisi Dance Theatre, the project has evolved over the years to not only commemorate the tragic events of 9/11 but also to address the ongoing crises that humanity faces. This year's performance, scheduled for September 11, 2024, will once again take place at the Josie Robertson Plaza, bringing together a diverse array of artists and community partners to create a profound and transformative experience.

A Tapestry of Movement, Sound, and Symbolism

The performance begins with the resonant call of a conch shell, paying tribute to the indigenous people of the land. This is followed by a rich tapestry of movement, sound, and symbolism as over 150 dancers, accompanied by a captivating ensemble of musicians, come together to form a sacred Peace Labyrinth. The dancers, representing a global community, engage in twelve symbolic ritualistic gestures that evoke themes of healing, compassion, and unity. As the performance reaches its climax at precisely 8:46 am, the dancers raise their arms skyward in a powerful gesture of universal peace, designed to awaken a shared sense of resilience and understanding.

Bridging Cultures and Connecting Humanity

The Table of Silence Project 9/11 is a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. Through the collaboration of a diverse array of artistic collaborators, including bell master and principal dancer Terese Capucilli, visual artist Rossella Vasta, composer and violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain, and a host of musicians and percussionists, the performance creates a mesmerizing and harmonious tapestry that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. The project's partnerships with Chelsea Factory, The Juilliard School, Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, Martha Graham Dance Center, Hunter College, Dance/NYC, and Steps on Broadway further solidify its commitment to fostering a sense of community and collective healing.

A Timeless Call to Action for Peace

At the heart of the Table of Silence Project 9/11 lies a profound and timeless message of hope and unity. As Buglisi eloquently states, "Scattering the seeds of hope, we recognize the need for healing, compassion, and the courage that it takes to make change . . . One step at a time, we shall change the world." This call to action reverberates through the performance, inspiring audiences to reflect on the power of individual and collective action in creating a more just and peaceful world.