Sanjuanito (region Otavalo)
This is a very traditional Ecuadorian music style and has its roots in the indigenous and Mestizo culture of the province Imbabura. One of many stories about the dance’s name, assures that it was performed mainly during the ceremony in honour of San Juan Bautista (John the Baptist), which the Spanish celebrated on June 24. This happens to be the same date of the Inti Raymi celebrations that had been taking place long before the Europeans arrived. The Sanjuanito represents solidarity, identity and the relationship to mother earth for the indigenous population, whereas it is rather an expression of joy and national identity for the Mestizos.Sanjuanito (region Zuleta)
This is a very traditional Ecuadorian music style and has its roots in the indigenous and Mestizo culture of the province Imbabura.
One of many stories about the dance’s name, assures that it was performed mainly during the ceremony in honour of San Juan Bautista (John the Baptist), which the Spanish celebrated on June 24. This happens to be the same date of the Inti Raymi celebrations that had been taking place long before the Europeans arrived.
The Sanjuanito represents solidarity, identity and the relationship to mother earth for the indigenous population, whereas it is rather an expression of joy and national identity for the Mestizos.
La Caderona
La Caderona (“the one with the big hips”) is an Afro-Ecuadorian rhythm and dance from the Esmeraldas region and was most likely inspired by African fertility rites.
The dance portrays a passionate love story about a beautiful black woman with big hips who drives the men crazy with her sensuality so that they would be even willing to leave their wives.