Slippery Rock University choreographer and dance educator Melissa Teodoro invites the Latino community of Pittsburgh and surrounding areas to experience a unique artistic performance that celebrates Colombia’s rich cultural heritage through dance and music.
On March 28, the stage at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center will come alive with rhythm, history, and tradition with the presentation of her work: Yuma: Dancing Down the Magdalena River.
The Meaning of “Yuma”
“Yuma” is an ancestral term used to refer to Colombia’s majestic Magdalena River—a cultural lifeline that has witnessed the blending of cultures, music, traditions, and stories that define much of Colombian identity.
This choreographic work offers a scenic journey along the river, exploring:
Traditional sounds born along its banks
Folk dances that tell stories of resilience and celebration
The connection between land, memory, and community
The cultural strength that unites Latin American peoples
Event Details
Date: March 28
Location: August Wilson African American Cultural Center – Pittsburgh
Performance: Yuma: Dancing Down the Magdalena River
Tickets: Available at the following link: https://trustarts.org/production/104244/yuma-dancing-down-the-magdalena-river
Melissa Teodoro extends a special invitation to the Latino community of Pittsburgh and nearby cities to join this evening of cultural celebration.
It will be an opportunity to reconnect with our roots, come together as a community, and experience a performance that honors the traditions that thrive along the banks of the Magdalena River.


