‘Day of the Dead’ celebration to take place in Cork

A special event is taking place in Cork this week to mark the tradition of ‘Day of the Dead’.

Amdie Mexico is preparing to present a special dance performance entitled, Blue Mist (La Niebla Azul)-the Day of the Dead, at Dance Cork Firkin Crane this Saturday.

The group hope to transport the audience to areas where the holiday is celebrated including Mexico and other locations throughout Latin America and the US.

The day is usually marked on November 1 and November 2, though other days, such as October 31 or November 6, may be included in accordance with the locality.

It is a tradition celebrated by family and friends who come together to pay their respects and celebrate loved ones and family members who have died.

The occasion often has a strong emphasis on humour and includes anecdotes about the deceased.

The show is directed by Tania Pantoja and will also include traditional food for audience members to enjoy.

This is in keeping with Day of the Dead celebrations which often feature the favourite dishes of the deceased and other items summing up their life.

Tania and other performers were recently photographed by UCC photographer Stephen Bean, sporting statement face paint in celebration of the event.

They will be recreating the look with colourful traditional clothing for the performance.

She explained the significance behind the make-up.

“You will see from the photographs that only half of our faces are covered in the colourful make-up.

“This represents the switch from this world to the other world.

“This is a big celebration in Mexico among people who believe that their relatives come back on this day to visit. That’s why we have an altar and we are adding elements including food that they used to eat and some drinks. The altars also have a crucifix, incense and flowers.”

The performance begins at 7pm.