September 2006 - KetzalCoatlicue (Aztec) Dancers

KetzalCoatlicue (Aztec) Dancers

Thursday, September 21, 2006
12:30-1:30 PM
Maucker Union Ballroom

KetzalCoalticue (Divine Bird of the serpent skirt) is a Kalpulli (learning community) of Indigenous people joined by the desire to learn, share and live in the tradition of Mexicayotl. The main focus of our Kalpulli is to conserve and share the cultural teachings of our ancestors, with dance being one of the essential pieces. KetzalCoatlicue pursues this spiritual, mental, and physical vocation with music from the sacred drum, conch shells, seeds and other instruments gifted by the natural environment.

Since the invasion of Mexico in the 16th Century, Indigenous communities in Mexico preserved Aztec dance, ceremony and science through oral tradition. Aztec Dance performance was confined to religious celebrations until the early 20th century. A new movement of consciousness gave way to the Mexicayotl which opened the performance of dance and ceremony to celebrations outside the church. Mexican teachers from established boards in the Traditional communities have brought this knowledge to our Kalupulli in Minnesota.

KetzalCoatlicue is a member of Makuilli Tonatiuh (Fifth Sun) a traditional dance board located in Axochiapan, Morelos lead by dance General Pedro España Figueroa. We receive intensive instruction in all the aspects of tradition by visiting dance communities within our board and by having teachers come to Minnesota several times a year. This traditional relationship has opened the doors for our Kalpulli to participate in ceremonies with groups in Mexico and the United States.

We offer authentic cultural presentations with commentary on the natural elements depicted in the dance steps and the connection between the dances and the environment. We have danced for educational programs, community groups, vigils, parent meetings, community demonstrations, public celebrations and large political and religious events. Some of our presentations and awards include:

Kalpulli KetzalCoatlicue Union Conformidad y Conquista 3547 Cedar Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55407 Tlayohua Ehekatl deleon@denestlaw.com Phone (612) 822-6269 facsímile (612) 436-3664

Internet Links
www.archaeolink.com/mesoamerican_civilizations.htm