Luz De Las Naciones to Feature Sacred Places Through Music and Dance

More than 1,000 volunteers will gather at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City on Friday, Nov. 13, and Saturday, Nov. 14, for the 24th annual “Luz de las Naciones” performance, Church News reported.

Hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this year’s showcase centers on sacred places. The production features music, orchestra performances, and traditional dances representing nations across the Americas, alongside additions from Brazil, Spain, and African and African American cultures.

Sister J. Anette Dennis, first counselor in the Relief Society general presidency, spoke to members of the media during a dress rehearsal on Tuesday, Nov. 10, ahead of the annual showcase.

“Because that’s what really unites us,” Sister Dennis told Church News. “And you can feel that unity and love and joy and hope that comes from Jesus Christ.”

She emphasized that attendees and online viewers should feel a sense of belonging regardless of background. “We have so much more in common than we have different,” Sister Dennis said. “To be peacemakers is to come to understand others, and when we can understand others and their stories and their backgrounds and find that we have more in common than we ever have differences, it’s a beautiful thing.”

Director Israel González-Nieri has led the performance for 15 years, following earlier years performing as a dancer, singer, and music director. Preparing for the event required 18 weeks of rehearsals.

“This year, we are especially excited to have even more countries represented, bringing together a beautiful diversity of music, dance and traditions that strengthens our connection as children of God,” González-Nieri said.

Soloist Camilla Urrea said that while the official theme focuses on sacred places, participating in the production has served as her own personal sanctuary. Elder Jorge T. Becerra recalled dancing in the performance as an 8-year-old boy, which he said deepened his sense of his Hispanic heritage.

“All happiness comes and is centered in the Savior, Jesus Christ,” said Elder Becerra.

President D. Todd Christofferson, second counselor in the First Presidency, is scheduled to speak during the events on Friday and Saturday.

Audiences can watch a live broadcast in Spanish on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 8 p.m. MST via the official Luz de las Naciones website, where English and Portuguese subtitled versions will also be provided. Recordings will remain available afterward for on-demand viewing on YouTube and broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Keep reading