Page 16 - The Ogemawahj Tribal Council

Jordan Mowat, musician from Alderville First Nation and pictured
on page 26 of the Alderville First Nation Resource Book; see
weblinks list for a video of his work.
Dance
Men’s Traditional Dance: Each nation has its own version of this
dance. Dancers often collect pieces for their regalia and use sacred
items and items of personal importance. The steps and movements
tell the story of a warrior preparing himself for battle, as well as
the story of the exploits of battle and hunting expeditions.
Women’s Traditional Dance: This dance is based on women’s
traditional roles as caregivers and nurturers of the family. Feet are
always kept close to the ground and one foot is always in contact
with the earth to reflect all women’s connection to Mother Earth.
The steady flow of movement of life upon the back of the Earth is
represented in the slow, rhythmic step.
Jingle Dress Dance or Healing Dance: Dancers are called upon to
dance for the ill or injured, or to help those who are grieving. The
jingles hit one another and create special sounds that are said to
sing to the spirits. There are two types: sidestep and the higher
stepping straight step. See the weblinks list for a link to a jingle
dress dance video.
Grass Dance: Dancers were called to the location where events
were to take place. They blessed the ground while they danced in
time with the beat of the drum. Their dancing flattened the grass
in preparation for the event. Dancers imitate nature by swaying
like grass on a windy day. All movements are done both on the
left and right sides. See the weblinks list for a link to a grass
dance video.
Fancy Shawl Dance: Regalia for this dance has beautiful bead and
ribbon work. Each dancer has her own style. The fluttering motions
of the shawls mimic the fluttering of a butterfly. The dance is fast
paced with twirls and spins.
Fancy Bustle Dance (Men’s Fancy Dancers): Dancers start at a
young age, as this dance requires energy, stamina, and fitness. This
dance is the fastest and flashiest men’s dance. See the weblinks list
for a link to a fancy bustle dance video.
Activity
Watch a video clip of the following dances, and then have
students try a version of the dance using the video as a guide.
Links to each dance provided on the weblinks list.
Traditional Dance Steps

Jingle Dress

14 The Ogemawahj Tribal Council