Yelkaram
pathways of body, ancestry and performance

Yelkaram is a multidisciplinary project that merges contemporary dance, 3D video mapping, and traditional rituals to showcase symbolic elements of Honduran Lenca indigenous culture. Artists of Lenca descent from San Francisco, Berlin, Tegucigalpa, and Marcala collaborate to creatively explore the interconnectedness of nature and ancestral wisdom, focusing on rituals and water conservation practices led by Lenca women. The project delves into water protection activities and ceremonies, translating them into movement, choreographic structures, and visual language. The project includes workshops with Lenca women and youth in Honduras to learn about their water rituals and ceremonies. Participants will also engage in movement exploration, guided by specific dance scores in meaningful and emblematic spaces. The initiative aims to highlight the value of indigenous wisdom, fostering a deeper understanding of Honduran culture through dialogues and experiences with audiences in Berlin, San Francisco and Honduras. Ultimately, Yelkaram shows how ancestral indigenous knowledge can contribute to a sustainable future, offering insights into our relationship with nature. The project encourages universal reflection and raises awareness about the fragility of the modern world, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.