Scissors Dance Workshop

TThe SCISSORS DANCE is an ancient manifestation, in which art is closely linked to the cult of the Andean gods. Its origins can be traced back to the times of the Spanish conquest, where the conquerors imposed a new religion, and, as a response, the indigenous peoples organized a clandestine action, that it is called TAKI ONQOY, or the singing illness. From then on the Danzaq have continue developing this dance. It is said that they have a pact with the devil. Ultimately, the devil stands for these gods repressed by the conquest.
This workshop aims to approach the knowledge of this dance from all sides; teaching its movements as well as its performative, magical and political sides linked to its veneration of the Andean gods.
Tuesday 9th
Introduction, the dance' s historical frame, ambit of development.
- Video.
- Learning exercises: the scissors' touch, steps of initiation.
Wednesday 10th
- Presentation "The actor who dances"
- Warm up exercises
- The evolution of the movements of the dance.
- APUS' s payment ritual.
- ATIPANAKUY, contrapunto between the participants.

Biography

Yuyachkani is a quechua word meaning Ï am thinking", "I am remembering." Yuyachkani has dedicated to theatrical activities since 1971. The most fundamental feature of the group's experience is to claim for a theater of creation which feeds itself from dance, music, traditions, masks, signs and elements of the Peruvian culture. They have produced 25 spectacles which aims at thinking Peru in theatrical terms. At present, Yuyachkani has opened a space called CEXES - Centro de experimentacion escenica (Center for theatrical experimentation). For the past few years, Yuyachkani has traveled throughout Peru, presenting their spectacles, teaching and getting to know the life and customs of the Peruvian villages. Yuyachkani has always been present at events for education and International Theater Festivals in Latin America, U.S., and Europe. Nuestra Casa-Teatro is permanently open to the community aiming at encouraging experimentation and promoting cultural and multidisciplinary artistic expressions. The Nuestra Casa consists of a permanent workshop for research and construction of masks, a library with texts on theater and Peruvian and world cultures, two show rooms, a video library and an area for publications about Yuyachkani's own experiences and other groups alike. With the occupancy of 250 seats, Nuestra Sala Teatral is used for several purposes where they present their works as well as other theater, dance and music groups from Peru, Latin America, Europe and Asia.