Peruvian Folk Dance

Peruvian folk dance is an umbrella category referring to traditional dances from various regions of Peru. The common theme throughout these diverse dances is a representation of life through movement. In a popular fast-paced dance called Marinera Norteña, courtship is the main theme and the pair of dancers use handkerchiefs to convey their affection. Female participants wear traditional clothing from their community and dance barefoot, a tradition dating back hundreds of years, which symbolizes the display of graciousness despite experiencing discomfort. Some other forms of Peruvian folk dance take place during Catholic feasts and carnival festivals, such as Ancash and Tarkada. Some choreographic patterns for Indigenous dances such as the Supaypa Wasin Tusuq (“scissors dance”) have also been adapted to Catholic traditions, with Peruvian Christmas festivities often featuring scissors dance competitions.

Peruvian folk dance originated from Peru, with some forms existing for many centuries and other forms being more contemporary. The exact origins of Peruvian folk dance in Canada are unknown, but likely arrived with immigrants from Latin America in the 20th Century.

Peruvian folk dance typically occurs at cultural festivals across the GTA.

Males and females of diverse ages, the majority of whom are Peruvian or other Latin American heritage. Spanish is the main language of communication in many of these organized events.