The Quinceanera is a
traditional Mexican dance. It can be compared to a debutante ball, as it is a
coming of age dance. Young women practice for months, even years for their
first Quinceanera. The actual celebration is more like a debutante’s ball where
the girls who are of age are presented in society by parents. Though it seems
quaint in this day and age, it is an age old and much loved tradition.
Like a debutante’s ball,
the girl’s first dance in the Quinceanera is with her father. Then she will
dance with the person who is escorting her. She can give the following dances
to whomsoever she may wish. The Quinceanera dance is usually choreographed
these days and the girl who is being presented will definitely go to a
choreography class for months before the Quinceanera. It is a big event for the
entire family and everyone who is of importance will be invited.
History
of the Quinceanera
The Quinceanera is as
popular today among the Mexicans as centuries ago. Its origins seem to stretch
as far back as the Aztecs. Legend has it that girls were considered ready for
marriage around the age of 15 in the ancient Aztec community and the Quinceanera
was the way that girls were introduced to the community as ready to be married.
The ancient Quinceanera dances may have been performed by girls to entice young
men and get a suitable male to marry and be looked after for life.
Different
kinds of Quinceanera
There are different levels
of Quinceaneras. There are communal ones where many girls are introduced at the
same time to society and the cost of the event can be shared among the parents.
Wealthier families have Quinceaneras for their daughters where she is the main
attraction. These Quinceaneras can be quite extravagant. Sometimes the girl
being introduced dances a Quinceanera, but there may be many choreographed
dances by hired dancers as well. It is entertainment for the entire evening and
the dances can be difficult but absolutely stunning to watch.
The
Quinceanera event
There are many parts to a Quinceanera
event. The music and dance are one part of it. Many people get well known Quinceanera
bands to play popular Quinceanera songs for the dances. There are many mixed
tapes of popular Quinceanera bands. Then there is the food, drinks, going home
gifts, gifts for the young girl. It is as splendid as a sweet sixteen party.
The Quinceanera dress is an event in itself. All young girls want to have the
most breathtaking, unique Quinceanera dress that can be bought and months are
spent designing the perfect Quinceanera dress.
Choreography
for the Quinceanera event
People take the choreography
for the Quinceanera event very seriously. The type of dancing and the group
that performs reflects the status of the family, so no effort is spared.
What
to look for in a Quinceanera class?
Remember, when you sign up
for a Quinceanera class, it is tough and you need teachers who will be able to
coax the best out of you. Joining a bunch of dancers is fine, but if you are
performing for an audience, you may need a one-on-one class. The same dancers
who choreographed your dance will choreograph your dance with your father, your
escort or anybody else you wish to dance with. They will be more than willing
to send their troupe to dance at your event. You could probably get the whole
deal as a package.
So make sure that the Quinceanera
class that you sign up for is referred and you know that they are good enough
to make your Quinceanera a resounding success.
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