Deer Line Dance

Hybrid Animation 

00:00:21

Nara Park is home to thousands of sika deer. These deer are believed to be the messengers of the gods. Having personally brought one of the four gods of Kasuga Grand Shrine in on their back. These deer are considered sacred. 

This piece was named in honor of Anna Stroud's Great Grandmother - who's Jemez name translates to Deer Line. In Jemez culture, the Deer Dance celebrates the deer’s role in the environment and spiritual mythology. The Deer are thanked for their gifts. The dancers mimic the agility of deer to reflect harmony between humans and nature.