While Nicaragua, situated in the heart of Central America, is known to many as a place of civil wars, volcanoes, and deadly earthquakes, it is also a land of beauty and culture. The Sacuanjoche flower, the national flower of Nicaragua, is representative of that beauty, flowering each May despite any conditions that may surround it.
Earlier this year, under the guidance of Gloria Cruz and Mayra Galiano, the "Flor De Sacuanjoche" dance troupe was formed to reflect the beauty of Nicaraguan culture. They perform dances reflective of the Atlantic and Pacific coast regions of Nicaragua, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that permeate Nicaragua's national culture. The Pacific Coast region of Nicaragua is heavily influenced by indigenous cultures. In the Pacific, one will find the history of Chief Nicarao -- for whom the country was named -- of the indigenous Pacific coast tribes of Nicaragua such as "Choltecas" and "Chorotecas."
The mix of indigenous people with the colonizing Spaniards make up that culture. The "Foklor" dance is heavy on an instrument called "Marimbas." n the photo above (right), members of Flor De Sacuanjochte wear Foklor dresses, dresses people wear for everyday living. The Atlantic Coast region, while also reflecting indigenous and European culture, also reflects the influences of Africa. In another shot, members of Flor De Sacuanjochte are dressed in their "Palo De Mayo" outfits with the short scarlet skirts. The African slaves that were taken to Haiti were taken to the Atlantic coast of Nicaragua. There they mixed with the indigenous groups that were already present such as the "Miskitu," the "Sumo," and the "Ramas" and also mixed with the French who were present to take control of the region from the Spanish (with no success). This complex mix of culture and ethnic background makes the Creole people of Nicaragua present all throughout the Atlantic coast. In the South Atlantic coast of Nicaragua where the city of "Blue Fields" lies, there does exist more Creole or Afro-Caribbean influence. In the North Atlantic coast of Nicaragua (where the city of "Puerto Cabezas" lies) there exists more of a Miskitu influence. "Palo De Mayo," which loosely translates to May-Tree (May as in the month of May) is celebrated in both regions and throughout the entire Atlantic coast. Traditionally, the people would gather around a large tree which they decorated and dance around in an Afro-Caribbean rhythm and style to pray to their gods for rain and a prosperous harvest. Today, the tradition continues and the region celebrates every May of the year with a Carnival which takes place in the streets and all throughout the region whereever music and spirit allows.
There are other traditional dances such as "Gueguense" and the "Masurca," which are even more regional. And though both the "Foklor" and "Palo De Mayo" also started out that way, they are now a rich and deep rooted part of all Nicaraguan culture and celebrated throughout all of Nicaragua and anywhere in the world one finds Nicaraguans living and working.
On September 17, the people of Madison will have the opportunity to experience the cultures of Nicaragua and other Central American countries. Nicaragua UNIDA is sponsoring a free community celebration at the Vilas Park shelter from 3-8 p.m. In addition to the dancing and music, there will be Nicaraguan food for people to purchase.
For more information, contact Ruben Ernesto Tijerino Garcia at retg@nicaraguaunida.com or Lilliam Post at (608) 219-8136. -- Mayra Galiano, Ruben Ernesto Tijerino Garcia, and Jonathan Gramling |
