Dances of Universal Peace: A Celebration of Light
“It’s an embodied peace practice,” said Rachel Theo-Maurelli, one of the three dancer teachers present. “The point is to create peace within that we can then share with the world."
Drawn from the World’s wisdom traditions, the Dances of Universal Peace are simple, meditative circle dances that use sacred phrases, chants, music, and movement to cultivate inner joy and peace. The dances, originally called “Sufi Dances,” were first introduced to the world in the late ‘60s by Sufi teacher Samuel L. Lewis and are currently practiced worldwide.
“We will be honoring this time of deep darkness and anticipating the return of light,” read the invitation for December’s Dances of Universal Peace, held at the Floyd Center for the Arts on Sunday, Dec. 14.
“It’s an embodied peace practice,” said Rachel Theo-Maurelli, one of the three dancer teachers present. “The point is to create peace within that we can then share with the world."
The songs and dances are chosen to align with and celebrate the seasons. “We choose a theme that celebrates the solar aspect of creation through all of the world’s traditions, through the lens of inter-faith and inter-cultural expression,” said teacher Ashera Rose. “In December it’s the celebration of light, which we are doing tonight.
At Edward Jones, we deliver candid guidance and personalized investment strategies to help you plan for and realize the possibilities of your future — for you, your family and generations to follow.
A third dance teacher, Tajali Tolan, who just moved to Floyd from Montana, led some of the dances, along with Theo-Maurelli and Rose. Jeff Tiebout provided acoustic guitar music to accompany the dances.
The dances and singing went from introspective to playful and celebratory.
“Deep down in the valley of the night… dream deep winter dreams… lie safe in your grandmother’s arms… still as a seed…” the first song began.
The group Facebook page for Dances of Universal Peace in Floyd states that there are 68 members. Because of the frigid weather, Sunday’s dance turnout was small, but it was deeply engaging and devotional. The next Dance will be Feb. 15, 2026.
Owner Lori Kuszmaul and her talented, professional floral designers would love to create something special for you.
Visit out store for readily available fresh flower arrangements, silk arrangements, plants, chimes and other fun & unique gifts.
We are located a half block from the stoplight. We are right around the corner.
