Native dancers perform for Plains students

The Ronan Native Dancers traveled to Plains this past week to showcase traditional Native American dance styles in their first-ever performance for the community. Ten dancers delivered two performances featuring a variety of styles, including women’s fancy dance, men’s chicken dance, men’s traditional dance and the ancient war and hunting dance.

In addition to the performances, Plains students had the opportunity to participate in cultural workshops led by the dancers. Classes explored Native American traditions and topics such as traditional games, peyote beading, traditional painting and medicine, as well as discussions about long hair, stereotypes and myths.

Angelina Adams introduced the dancers and shared the cultural significance behind the performances. 

“Traditionally, dancers were closely linked to rituals and ceremonies,” Adams explained as she introduced a dance that tells the story of a war party. 

Dancer Iggy Quequesah described the historical roots of the war dance. 

“This is probably one of the oldest dances you would ever see,” Quequesah said. “I’ve always been told it’s a war dance — that we were going into war or going to hunt.”

Adams also explained the meaning behind the traditional women’s dance. 

“It is meant to mimic the flight of a butterfly,” she said.

At the conclusion of the performance, students were invited to ask questions. One student asked how long it takes to make the dancers’ regalia.

“I think it varies for every outfit,” Quequesah responded. “As you can see, mine has a lot of beadwork, so it probably took at least a few months just to complete some of it.”

Marie Errecart, a social studies teacher in Plains, also teaches students through the Indian Education for All (IEFA) program. IEFA is a Montana constitutionally mandated program that ensures students learn about the cultural heritage, history, and contributions of Native Americans.

    Iggy Quequesah a member of the Ronan Native Dancers performs an ancient Native American War Dance during a presentation in Plains. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Ronan Native Dancers perform for the Plains School District students. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Bresis Ross, a member of the Ronan Dancers, performs for Plains School District students. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    Atwen Quequesah perfroms with the Ronan Native Dancers an ancient Native American dance. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)