The Peruvian people proudly honor the traditions of their ancestors. From generation to generation, national values are transmitted in the works and achievements of culture. One of the most important assets of the people of Peru is the scissors dance. One name already sounds mysterious and causes genuine interest, right? Let’s dive deeper into its history.
 

Scissors dance history

According to anthropological data, the dance originated at the beginning of the 16th century, namely in 1524 during the uprising of the indigenous peoples against the Spanish conquerors.
 
This Peruvian scissor dance embodies the struggle of the old gods with Christianity. Dancers with their every movement show their strength and ability to resist evil spirits.
 
Nowadays, dance has not lost its sacred symbolism and is among the UNESCO heritage sites.
 

Unique features of dance

Unlike exclusively male Egyptian Tanoura which we talked about in this article. The rare and beautiful Peru scissor dance is performed by both men and women. The main attribute of dance is the sharp scissors with a blade length of 25 centimeters. To possess such attributes requires physical strength, manual dexterity, and accuracy of movement.
 
In fact, it is important in any dance direction. Therefore, in NS Dancing we pay great attention not only to the study of the dance movements and compositions themselves, but also the development of physically important skills. Physical strength makes movements clearer, brighter and makes the creative flow graceful.
 
Speaking about the special features of the scissor dance, it is worth noting that the dance is performed on a mandatory basis by two or more dancers. So, during the dance, there is opposition as a result of which one wins and the other loses.
Peru`s scissors dance
 

Music and movement

Yes, the scissors are an element that gives the dance a contrast. However, acrobatics and complex elements are something that really amazes with its scale and grace. By the way, to become a performer of the Peruvian dance with scissors is not so easy. At first, artists come through challenging tests, such as walking on glass, jumping over a flame, and only then can they become true dance performers with scissors.
 
Music is no less attractive than the Peruvian scissor dance itself. According to tradition, musical accompaniment for the performance is a combination of violin and harp. A truly magical atmosphere arises during this show!
 

What about costumes?

Just imagine: gold, multi-colored sparkles and many small mirrors cover the clothes of artists. Embroidered with variegated colors, the costumes fascinate the audience.
 
By the way, it is worth remembering about security. Sharp objects and sudden movements during the performance can be dangerous for both the artist and the audience. Therefore, the skill of the dancer must be 100% developed.

Peruvian scissor dance is a truly rare art, retaining its original features after 5 centuries. Wikipedia mentions that dance is one of the six most significant dances for the peoples of Latin America. As noted, for world culture, the scissors dance is on a par in importance with the Spanish flamenco. The scissor dance Peru is no exception. He reveals to us the sacred meaning and faith of the people of Peru in goodness, justice, and true beauty.

It is unlikely that there will be another kind of art that could so accurately and so expressively show the soul of the people ...