Danza de los Voladores: The Dance by the Brave Souls
As I stood there, watching the Dance of the Flyers, I thought I should tell you about this unique dance.
In a world that often gets all tangled up in the rush of modern life, there’s a place where tradition shines as bright as the sun. No doubt, it’s the reason Mexico keeps attracting visitors like a magnet, drawing them into its rich culture, which seems to hold the secrets of centuries.
I remember the moment well. I witnessed my first Mexican dance, just after a stroll through the amazing Museo Antropologia. Right outside, across the building, this dance came to life every half an hour. That tall pole, almost 20 meters high, stood tall and proud. Where the ropes sway in the breeze like whispers of the past.
My journey took me further, from the sprawling cities to the hidden gems of Mexico. In Puebla, Cholula, San Miguel de Allende, Hidalgo, and my recent trip to Chiautempan Santa Ana Tlaxcala while waiting for the enchanting Guelaguetza, this dance could still be experienced. Well, this dance can be found at any tourist spot across the country. Yet, even though I had stared at it a few times, every sighting felt like a new discovery. The feeling of awe still wrapped around me, just as it did that very first time.
Now, let me tell you about the dancers. Five brave souls climb up that towering pole with courage. But that’s not the end of their breathtaking act. With ropes tied to their waists, four of these fearless flyers take a leap of faith. The fifth, perched on the pole’s crown, dances and plays a flute and drum to accompany the flyers spiraling down like leaves caught in a joyful breeze.
Oh, how my breath caught as they spun around that pole, a dance defying the very rules of gravity.
And then, the attire: the dancers don the traditional Totonac dress. The white shirts, pants, hat, and chest cloth are beautifully embroidered and adorned. Which has a deep meaning in the attire.
So, in a world where modernity usually beats customs, I found myself in Mexico, a place where time does not erase tradition; rather, it nurtures it. And as I stood there, watching the Danza de los Voladores, I realized that this dance is more than just a show; it’s a view into the heart and soul of a country that keeps its traditions alive, allowing everyone who gets to know it.
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