EXODUS | PILGRIMAGE

This project not only focuses on the catastrophic results of the hurricane but also serves as an homage devoted to the strength, beauty and resilience of the Puerto Rican community both on the island and stateside.

Dressed in attire made from hurricane debris that references Afro-Puerto Rican folkloric wardrobe, Wanda dragged a debris “train” behind her as part of a ritualistic “pilgrimage” along the downtown Orlando cultural corridor.

Wanda was accompanied by live Afro Puerto Rican folkloric Plena singers throughout her journey. These processions are direct references to traditional impromptu outdoor street events, called parrandas, which are used to call community members out of their homes and join the singing, which customarily ends in a large celebration of music and food.

This variation culminated in a bombazo, Afro-Puerto Rican drumming and dancing, performed inside the Dr. Phillips Performing Art Center DeVos Ballroom. Musicians, dancers artists and scholars were on hand greeting those that have followed and joined the event.

The garment was created by UCF costume design professor Kristina Tollefson, a frequent collaborator with Raimundi. This project is still evolving with plans to be performed in cities across the US and in Puerto Rico.