Folklore in Peru - Peruvian Dances

Marinera Dance

The "Marinera" is a dance dedicated to courtship and love; and it is danced in all regions of Peru acquiring its own forms based on the location: The Northern region (Norteña), the city of Lima (Limeña), and the highlands (Serrana).

Since 1960 the Club Libertad is in charge to organize the National "Marinera" Competition in the city of Trujillo.

Tondero Dance

The Tondero is a customary dance of couples that was likely originated in the Northern Coastal district of Peru of Saña Lambayeque. The Tondero represents the pursuit of the rooster to the chicken.

Women wear a nightdress called "anaco" that on top looks like a blouse over the wide skirt that is fitted to her waist. The famous "Dormilonas" are very noticible, artistic slopes (earrings) worked in filigree, created by the townŽs goldsmith. The male wears a fine-hay hat, a striped or white shirt, northern girdle and white or black pants.

Festejo Dance

Festejo is a sensual dance of rhythmical nature and happy pace, that can be of challenge or competition between the dancers.

The lyrics narrate the customs, happy moments, sorrows and sufferings of the black race. Black inhabitants created the surrounding areas of Lima during the 17th century.

During this time period, only percussion instruments were used like "El Cajón", an instrument made out of wood. The musician would sit and play the tipical rithms with his/her fingers and palms.

Alcatraz Dance

Alcatraz is one of the most typical dances that prevail on the Peruvian coast; the current dance takes form at the beginning of 20th century from the African rhythms brought to Peru by the black slaves.

Its tradition has survived and has prospered with the crossbreeding. It is danced in couples with a paper tied at the back of the waist. The dancers play with a lit candle trying to ignite the paper. Agile waist movements are used that draw loving encounters.

Huaylash of Carnival

This is the representative dance of the center of Peru. Most popular dance of the south region of Huancayo, in the department of Junin. It is executed during the carnivals and in almost all the parties of oneŽs patron saint.

Folklore indicated that it was initially performed in certain phases of potato farming, in which the movements of agricultural tasks were imitated. It is a traditional dance of the Huanca culture.

Carnival of Canas

This is a dance from the province of Espinar, South of Cuzco, Peru. This dance came from the zone of the "Braves of Canas" and is characterized for being very festive and picaresque.

Performance is made by couples who take the opportunity to conquer their mate by showing off their assets and solve the eternal dilemma of love.

Huayno Dance

Huayno is the most popular musical expression of the highland region of Peru; this dance originated in the Inca empire which survived the Spanish colonization and Maintains its popularity to this day.

A festive and joyful dance, with colourful llama wool woven and embroidered costumes.

It is also a very popular dance, danced collectively (men and women) as opposed to others, which was reverved by the Incas for special ceremonies.

Tarpuy Dance

Dance of the department Cuzco, arqueological capital of the american continent.

This dance is of agricultural origin, and is performed in honor to the Pachamama (Mother Land). Its choreography represents the sowing with movements that the man uses during the work of the field.