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Feast Day at the
Santa Clara Indian Pueblo
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I have a few photos to show you of a dance from the lesser Feast Day, on August 12th.
In that instance a War Dance was performed, that was adopted from the Plains Indians.
Given that it actually isn't a part of Tewa/Santa Clara historic ritual, they didn't
mind photographs being taken of that dance. I think that if you view these pictures
you will see that the ritual traditions of the Santa Clara Pueblo are alive and well,
even in these days of rapid technological change. I was particularly fascinated to
learn that some of the best dancers are professional people, such as surgeons, who
return to the Pueblo to dance each year.
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click on image to see a larger view
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The dancers are preceded
into the plaza by the
ceremonial drummers
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click on image to see a larger view
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The leaders of the dance
groups come into the plaza
with ear-splitting whoops & yells.
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click on image to see a larger view
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The dancers form a long line completely across
the plaza, and move in a snake-like procession.
The rhythm of the drums and the movements of the
dancer's banners create an entrancing and hypnotic
effect. On the roof of the Kiva (Indian Religious
House/Church) the clan leaders watch their clan
dancers with great pride.
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click on image to see a larger view
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Dancers are encouraged to start
very young, often as young as
three years old!
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click on image to see a larger view
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The enthusiasm of the young dancers
is quite inspiring. It is clear that
they take great pride in their clan
traditions.
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Chucks Pottery
may
not be used on other websites without prior authorization.
For permission please
contact Lynne MacAfee at lynne@milehighcomics.com.
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