The Aldrich In Ridgefield Announces First Live Show In Renovated Sculpture Garden

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum will host its first live performance on its newly redesigned Sculpture Garden with "Mikailwitl For Generaciones Perdidas," an hour-long work by artist Marcela Torres, on Saturday, Sept. 27.

Commissioned by The Aldrich, the performance blends ceremonial ritual, indigenous dance, and contemporary movement to honor lost generations and sacred land. The work will begin at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. A rain date is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 28.

Performed by a collective of Mitotilliztli danzantes—traditional Nahuatl dancers—the piece integrates elements of danza, sound, reggaeton rhythms, queer embodiment, and ritual practices. Ceremonial features include a smoke ritual and the construction of a communal flower altar.

“In the Mikailwitl ceremony practiced by contemporary Mexicayotl spiritual practitioners, we honor the children we have lost,” Torres said. “In 'Mikailwitl For Generaciones Perdidas,' we consider our practice can be for those who were unborn—generations lost due to colonial violence.”

Audience members are invited to participate in the ceremonial aspect of the performance by bringing a single flower or bouquet as a symbolic offering, which will serve as admission. Traditional tickets are also available.

The cast includes Izayo Mazehualli (assistant choreographer), Valentina Bache-Rodriguez (dramaturgy), Aleen Olivares (assistant producer), and Citlali Garcia (translator).

Marcela Torres, born in Salt Lake City and working between Chicago and Brooklyn, is known for performances and exhibitions that explore ritual, social justice, and diasporic identity. Torres holds degrees from the University of Utah and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and has performed at venues including Performance Space New York and the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts.