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Fancy Dance (Northern Style Fancy Dance and Southern Style)
The Fancy Shawl is the most modern of the ladies' dances, and gives young ladies the opportunity to demonstrate their individual agility and grace. Dance steps are individually choreographed, but always in harmony with the beat of the drum. Many of the moves are very intricate. The spectator who is close enough to watch the movement of the feet will be rewarded with an added dimension, but the overall effect can be seen from any distance.
Though the fancy shawl involves more motion and agility than most women's dances, the grace of the woman is always expressed. The dress is brilliantly colored, and often adorned with beautifully designed beadwork. Beadwork is often a compliment to the shawl, which is an integral part of the dance.
This dance was originally danced in the northern part of Indian country by a few brave women who were sometimes ostracized or booed for their efforts by traditionalists resistant to change. It gradually gained acceptance over many years and has adapted to its present form.
(source: Powersource.com, Gathering of Nations) |
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