Aztec Dance

The Aztec Dance, “Danza Azteca” in Spanish or “Mi’totiliztli” in Nahuatl, is one of the most basic manifestations of the artistic and cultural spirit of the native people of Mexico. It is a mixture of thousands of years of history of both the agrarian and militaristic ethnic groups of the area, and the integration of pre-columbian and Christian rituals as evolved over the centuries.The Aztec dancers are devoted to preserving the traditions and rituals of pre-Hispanic culture through the expression of dance and ceremony.

The Dance represents the eternal search of man for cosmic harmony and integration, both of his body and his spirit, and all the chants of Aztec Dance ritual refer to this essential process. The Aztec Dance has been referred to as a form of prayer and a total way of life and communication.

During the performance, dancers wear traditional costumes, including feather head-dresses and seed-leggings called “chachayotls” that make noise when we dance. Each time you see the Aztec Dancers you take a step back in time. The drum and sea shell alert you that something special is about to happen. The dances are very expressive and represent the forces of nature, the universal four corners of the earth, human existence and the desire to achieve balance with the four elements of earth, wind, fire, water and air. The dancers unite to create a corporal expression to worship and communicate with their gods. Aztec dance is a dance that is grounded in nature and respect for all living beings.

In modern times, Mexican people enjoy learning and dancing Aztec Dance to connect and preserve their Aztec roots long before they were conquered by the Spaniards.

To see Live Aztec Dance in Los Angeles, all you have to do is go to La Placita Olvera during the weekday afternoon.

More on Aztecs and the Spanish Conquistadors coming soon in Learning Spanish is Fun !

This article was written by Sabrina Rongstad-Bravo

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