| The Grand Entry signals the
start of the pow wow by bringing together the singers, drummers and dancers
who participate in the celebration. It sets a special time for showing
respect to the various dancers and their sytles of dancing.
Dancing
The exuberance of a pow wow is best expressed in vibrant color (beads,
feathers etc.). Regalia is decorated with exquisite beadwork and bells.
Each movement of the dancer is calculated and each individual style depicts
the inner nature of the soul.
Men's Traditional
Dance
Through traditional dancing and singing we retain values from the past
and are encouraged to carry into the future what we have learned to respect
in life. Power, grace, pise are all exemplified as the male traditional
dancers move in exact thythm with the drumbeat. Roots of the Men's Traditional
and / or Straight Dance can be treaced back to the Omaha Nation of the
Central Plains. Warrior societies wore regalia that distinguished their
bravery and honor. The wearing of eagle feathers, crow belts and colorful
markings serve as signals of rank within certain societies. Most traditional
regalia reflects identity, status and honor. The traditional dancer emanates
respect and pride.
Grass Dance
Today the Grass Dance is known by various names indicative to each tribe,
however, the dance, songs and outfits remain similar. Originally to enact
war experiences, today each dancer uses his favortie steps and dances
for his personal enjoyment. Grass dancing had developed from a ritual
to a popular dance. Though symbolism has changed, the dance retains elements
of original choreography.
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