Ecuadorian Event Features Music, Dancing, Traditions
On August 20, co-organizers ArtsWestchester, the Village of Sleepy Hollow and sponsor Montefiore Einstein, will present Dia de la cultura ecuatoriana (Day of Ecuadorian Culture), a free day in Barnhart Park that features traditional music, folk dance and cultures of Ecuador.
Performers during the annual outdoor event will include Grupo de danza ayazamana, a New York City-based traditional dance group directed by Jose Rivera. Bands formed from New York-based musicians who represent different regions of Ecuador will also perform, including Inti Andino.
Dia de la cultura ecuatoriana, which is part of ArtsWestchester’s Westchester Roots series, distinguishes itself from other Ecuadorian events in the tristate region by focusing on presentations that explain and celebrate the South American country’s culture and history. In fact, about a quarter of Sleepy Hollow’s population traces its heritage to Ecuador.
“In partnering with ArtsWestchester, we decided to focus more on traditions. Let’s talk about our roots and our culture and educate our community,” says Diana Loja, a community liaison for the Village of Sleepy Hollow and the event’s organizer.
This summer’s event, now in its third year, will begin with traditional Ecuadorian children’s games. During the event, participants of all ages can also build a chakana, a stepped cross motif used by the Inca and pre-Inca Andean societies. Chakana means ‘bridge’ or ‘to cross over’ in Kichwa.
“We want to explain the chakana to kids because many people—including myself at one point—didn’t even know what the chakana represents,” says Loja.
Descriptions and introductions will alternate among English, Spanish and Kichwa to help Ecuadorian and non-Ecuadorian attendees understand the cultural context of the performances and demonstrations.
Local Ecuadorian restaurants will also sell food at the event. Guests are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs or picnic blankets to enjoy the performances and food offerings.
About ArtsWestchester
Founded in 1965, ArtsWestchester is New York State’s largest private not-for-profit arts council. The leading funder and advocate for the arts in Westchester and Rockland Counties, ArtsWestchester works to create an equitable, inclusive, vibrant and sustainable community in which the arts are integral to and integrated into every facet of life. Building on its 60-year legacy, ArtsWestchester advances arts and culture by providing grants, bringing artists into schools and community centers, advocating for the arts, and building audiences through diverse marketing initiatives. ArtsWestchester enriches the lives of everyone in the community and operates a multi-use gallery and home for the arts at 31 Mamaroneck Ave. in White Plains, New York.
