1992 – In America, Native America, and many other cultures, the Eagle is admired and held in great reverence.  When working on the red earth sites in the Southwestern United States it is always a glorious moment when the Eagle soars above with its great power, strength, and beauty.

“For the performance, Messenger Eagle, the Eagle is revered as a messenger to and from the Gods.  If you are in communication with the Eagle you could receive a message from the Gods or, perhaps, send a message to the Gods.” Maida Withers

Messenger Eagle premiered at Thomas Jefferson in 1992 as a central part of the evening-length program, Dance for the Earth – created by Maida with the Dance Construction Company. Dana Tai Soon Burgess represented the Eagle.

Messenger Eagle was also performed by Maida Withers Dance Construction Company with Brazilian dancers as part of the United Nation’s Earth Summit (Eco’92) programming in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.   The performance was on a large elevated stage on the beach sponsored by the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro.

View Dance for the Earth (minute 28:28 to 36:01):

Dana Tai Soon Burgess, soloist, with Maida Withers Dance Construction Company