A Native Celebration of Art

I-Mag spent time celebrating the art of culture which began close to home with the Native American culture. As many know, we are very proud descendants of the Lenni Lenabe Nation and we had the chance to celebrate with our friends at the 4th Annual Children’s Festival Powwow which took place at The Rotunda in Philly, PA.

The Native Nations Dance Theater founded by Vaughnda Hilton and family have preformed for thousands and been featured in many theatrical productions including the 500 Nations and The Ancient Circle of Life.

We had a full day of entertainment, which began with Grand Entry where all of the Native Americans came in dressed in their best handmade regalia. Drummers played music that awakened the Spirits and welcomed them into the circle of friends.

Lakota Son played his melodic flute which he explained was used to soothe a crying baby and to call a woman for marriage. He also performed the Hopi Hoop Dance which displayed a close resemblance to Mother Earth and the children that come from her womb.

The audience enjoyed participating in the Snake Dance in which each person held hands and followed the head of the line in snake formation. We also enjoyed the performance of the Blackfeet Chicken Dance which was also a very colorful, prideful and artistic dance which is used for the calling of a mate.

At closing a concert by Akisha Wi and Songbird (who by the way have a CD soon to be released) welcomed the evening perfectly.

We eagerly anticipated the coming of their next event and hope that you do not miss it.

To learn more about the Native Nation Dance Theater visit:

http://http://http//http://www.nndt.homestead.com/

Heather Elitou-Reviewer