DAUGHTERS OF CORN DANCE TRoupe returns to US FALL 2019
“This was the most powerful and moving cultural exchange event I have ever been a part of.” David Canfield, Unitarian Universalist Church, Concord, NH.
The Daughters of Corn Dance Troupe toured the U.S. from September 10th through November 1st, 2019. The dancers brought not only the beauty of their dancing, but also the inspirational story of their lives and their important work to help families in their communities.
The troupe visited 6 states and performed for diverse audiences that included preschools, elementary and high schools, universities, community and cultural arts centers and nursing homes. They also carried out dance workshops, classroom visits and presentations to talk about Compas’ work and to share their stories.
The dancers shared how they were able to come together to form the dance troupe. As dancers, they each have different styles and abilities, and as individuals, they have different personalities and political beliefs. Through the months of practice leading up to the dance tour, they learned to respect each other's beliefs, talents and abilities. In the end, they realized that they are all uniquely talented and beautiful, but when they work together they can accomplish more and create something even more beautiful.
If you were able to attend one of the troupe’s performance, then you were able to see just how beautifully they are able to dance together. If you weren’t able to see a performance you can check out the video above.
The dancers also shared how proud they were to represent Nicaragua and to help promote the work of Compas de Nicaragua whose programs have benefited the lives of families in their community. The dancers had to participate in 3 weeks of auditions in order to earn a spot in the troupe and then practice for 9 months in preparation for the trip. They made this major commitment to participate in the tour in order to support families who benefit from Compas’ programs.
Volunteering in their community on programs to support families in need and participating in the dance tour to promote those programs has given the dancers a better sense of purpose, and has helped bring more joy to their lives. The dancers expressed that they are actually more happy when doing things for others. The important stories and lessons that the dancers shared while on tour in the U.S. is why Compas’ cultural exchange work is so important.