Miriam and Her Dancing Shoes

This interpretation of the familiar biblical story of the Exodus shifts the focus to Moses’ older sister Miriam, whose bravery and celebratory dance provided hope for her people during a dark and dangerous journey, and shows how emotional needs can be as important as physical ones.

The Israelites are fleeing slavery in Egypt. There is no time to pack, but Miriam brings her timbrel and her dancing shoes. Her brother Moses is frustrated, “We’re running for our lives, not planning a party!” But when they need to cross the Red Sea, it is Miriam who keeps their spirits up, leading her people in a dance towards freedom.