Puerto Rican Performer Celimar Rivera Cosme to Make History at Super Bowl Halftime Show with LSPR Performance

Puerto Rican performer Celimar Rivera Cosme, who is partially deaf, is preparing to break new ground at the Super Bowl halftime show with a unique “multilingual signing program.” During Bad Bunny’s performance, she will lead this special program using Puerto Rican Sign Language (LSPR). LSPR is distinct for its own grammar, rhythm, and cultural significance, setting it apart from American Sign Language due to its rich heritage.

The National Football League (NFL) highlighted the significance of this event in a release, stating that the Apple Music Halftime Show will feature this multilingual signing program, with Rivera Cosme at the forefront. In an interview with ABC News, conveyed through a Spanish interpreter, Rivera Cosme expressed immense pride, saying, “I feel incredibly proud because everything that Bad Bunny is doing is making history. And it means that sign language is also going to make history there.”

During this historic performance, Rivera Cosme intends to highlight the unique aspects of Puerto Rican culture and identity through sign language. She emphasized, “The most important thing is to emphasize that we have our own language, our own identity, and our own culture.” Known for her expressive and performance-driven style, she combines storytelling, rhythm, and passion to mirror the intensity of live music.

When Rivera Cosme takes center stage, she aims not just to interpret but to deliver a performance that is infused with her personal artistic flair. “Interpretation is one thing, but I’m not going there to interpret, I’m going to perform,” she said, explaining that the Super Bowl stage demands a unique blend of personal style and attitude.

Upon receiving the invitation from the NFL, she was filled with surprise and excitement, understanding the weight of representing the Puerto Rican deaf community. She stated, “This means a great responsibility for me, especially for my deaf community. I want us all to shine together.”

Rivera Cosme is no stranger to collaborating with Bad Bunny. She previously interpreted at his 2022 World’s Hottest Tour and during his El Choli residency in Puerto Rico, an event celebrating Puerto Rican identity. Her work there was recognized by thousands of fans.

This Super Bowl halftime show stands out as a significant platform given its global audience. Rivera Cosme expressed her pride, saying, “The Super Bowl is a very big stage where many people will have their eyes on this event, and I’m very proud of that and of representing our Puerto Rican Sign Language.”

The NFL has made accommodations for fans who are deaf or hard of hearing, stating in a release that the Super Bowl LX Pregame Ceremony and the halftime show can be watched via a dedicated stream that includes ASL and LSPR performances. This stream will be available across several digital platforms.