Landys In Ecuador: Emmett dancing at San Antonio festival

On Saturday night Emmett danced at a festival in San Antonio honoring their patron saint. I estimate there were a few hundred people who watched the exhibition. Over the past few months, Emmett has practiced most days, usually 2-3 hours at a time. Sometimes they practice twice per day. The dance troupe consists of mostly Saraguro teenagers and young adults who choreograph dances for exhibitions and competitions. Traditional dancing seems to be an integral part of Saraguro culture. In addition to the young adult dance troupes, Saraguro elders dance during cultural events. There is a spiritual dimenstion to the traditional dances. Last night, the first dance of each dance troupe incorporated a homage to San Antonio. Typically, the costumes have spiritual meaning. Last night Emmett danced wearing a mask that was called the "diablo", or devil. Kate and I are very proud of Emmett. He joined the Saraguro dance troupe entirely on his own. Emmett often plays soccer with older boys and young men. Through his soccer friends he was invited to join the dance troupe. Although all of the dancers have fun, their time and dedication to practice clearly demonstrates how important this cultural tradition is for them. Emmett's energy, focus and propensity to have fun on the soccer field I am sure led to his invitation to join the dance troupe. I consider it an honor for Emmett to be invited to participate in the Saraguro dance troupe. Today Emmett and the dance troupe will travel four hours to the city of Saraguro, where they will compete in a dance competition. It is exciting to see Emmett and his friends commit themselves to such an important endeavor while having so much fun.