All images courtesy of Cannupa Hanska Luger Studio
In September, Pilobolus collaborated with artist Cannupa Hanska Lugar on a performance for Return of the Buffalo: Tatanka Owe Akupi, a massive performance art spectacle held on September 18–19, 2026, in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY. Return of the Buffalo was created Amir Nizar Zuabi in partnership with Elders from Lenape and Lakota Tribe, and presented by St. Ann’s Warehouse, The Walk Productions, & KBH Arts. A herd of 40 life-size buffalo puppets powered by volunteers roamed the streets of New York over two days, with stops along the way featuring music, spoken word, dance, and art. The experience was free and open to the public.
The collaboration with Lugar was particularly comprehensive: in addition to collaborating on choreography, he also created the regalia and performed in the live work alongside Pilobolus dancers Alexis Cruz-Castro, Quincy Ellis, Ryan Hayes, Marlon Feliz, and Anouk Otsea. Pilobolus's performance was held as the sun set over Manhattan on September 18, followed by music from Rhiannon Giddens.
Pilobolus is grateful for entrusting us to create with and honor Indigenous people, their heritage, and their future.
