Celimar Rivera Cosme is ready to make history. She will interpret Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show. This marks a historic first for the big game. The performance will feature Puerto Rican Sign Language (LSPR).
Rivera Cosme is a partially deaf performer from Puerto Rico. She will lead a special “multilingual signing program.” Her role proves Deaf culture has a place on music’s biggest stage. This Sunday, millions will witness this groundbreaking moment.
A Historic First for Puerto Rican Sign Language
This performance is a landmark for representation. It is the first time the Super Bowl will use Puerto Rican Sign Language. LSPR is a distinct dialect of American Sign Language. It incorporates Spanish and has its own unique grammar.
Most importantly, it carries Puerto Rico’s cultural identity. The NFL confirmed this historic first in a release. They highlighted the “multilingual signing program” led by Rivera Cosme. This move celebrates the rhythm and history of Puerto Rico’s Deaf community.
More Than Interpretation: A Full Performance
Rivera Cosme emphasizes she is not just interpreting. She is performing. “I’m going to perform,” she told ABC News through an interpreter. She explained the Super Bowl requires a different energy. You must add your own flow, vibe, and style.
Her approach involves deep emotion and storytelling. She ensures deaf audiences get a full concert experience. Their experience should match that of hearing fans. Her body’s movement and attitude are part of the art.
Pride and Responsibility for the Deaf Community
Rivera Cosme feels immense pride and responsibility. “I feel incredibly proud,” she said. Bad Bunny is making history. Now, sign language will make history there too. She was shocked when the NFL first called her.
She immediately thought of her community. “I want the Puerto Rican deaf community to shine with me too,” she recounted. This moment emphasizes their own language, identity, and culture. It is a chance for global recognition.
A Continued Collaboration with Bad Bunny
This is not her first time working with Bad Bunny. Their collaboration began in 2022. Puerto Rico’s deaf community advocated for concert interpreters then. Bad Bunny’s team agreed for his world tour stop.
Rivera Cosme was brought on board for his “World’s Hottest Tour.” She earned great acclaim for her work. She also interpreted his “El Choli” residency in Puerto Rico. That event was a celebration of Puerto Rican identity.
A Landmark Stage Amidst Controversy
The Super Bowl is the biggest stage yet. It arrives with some controversy. Bad Bunny is the first solo Spanish-language halftime headliner. Some figures, including former President Donald Trump, criticized the selection.
Bad Bunny is a vocal critic of Trump. The performer’s global fanbase knows his real name: Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio. Jay-Z recently defended Bad Bunny’s historic role. Meanwhile, Rivera Cosme focuses on her historic mission. She will represent her community proudly at Levi’s Stadium this Sunday.
