The Guelguetza Popular was held in the open field stadium of the technological school.Folding chairs lined the field.Gates opened at 10 am and soon thereafter, both the field and grandstands were full of people- standing room only!
The performers arrived,along with their bandas de musicas and the festivities began!
There was an astounding array of brilliant traditional costume,lively music and incredible dance and footwork - and sometimes a live animal or two such as a turkey dressed with the items for a shamanic ceremony such as ribbons and cigarettes! Each puebla's performance told a different tale of their history,myths,everyday life and major life events such as marriage. You must remember that although some of the traditional dress is for special occasions ,much of it is still worn everyday.Regions and villages use distinct symbols,colors,fibers and methods of weaving.Backstrap looms are still employed, to weave fabric , hand embroideries still decorate and identify pride of place.For example, the women of the Istmo coastal region are known for their festive, colorful, floral embroidered velvet huipiles (rectangular fabric folded,sewn up the sides, center hole to pull over the head) and skirts trimmed with elaborate lace.(Frida Kahlo often wore this costume).
After each performance, the group had canastas (baskets) of fruits, vegetables,bread and sweets that they threw out to the crowd.It created utter chaos!!!
Speeches punctuated the performances- some explained the traditional dress of the puebla, others reminded all present that we laugh and dance today because we do not know what tomorrow may bring.Still others reminded everyone that this event was for the PEOPLE of Oaxaca.
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