Dancing into the Summer Library Program

Larry Yazzie of the Meskwaki Nation brought his colorful regalia, resounding drumming, and fancy footwork to the Montgomery Public Library to kick off the summer library program. More than 45 people watched Yazzie of the Native Pride Dancers bring his excitement and artistry to the library.

Yazzie has danced for audiences across the world, and was recently in California and Romania. He shared his stories of the modern and traditional Native American dance styles and explained the flute and drum that he uses, and his regalia with intricate beadwork, including a crown with eagle feathers and porcupine hair.

“Dancers make their outfits as colorful and brilliant as possible,” he explained. “All of the animal hair and feathers honor those animals.”

Yazzie, who has been dancing since he was six or seven years old, performed three dances: a traditional, an eagle, and an upbeat fancy dance. He said when dancing, he prays and thinks of the world.

“Music helps me, lifts my spirit and makes me happy,” he said. “Everything I do in dance, or when I sing, has a purpose. Everywhere I go, I bring my family with me.”

He explained the fancy dance originated in the 1950s, and that it requires fancy footsteps, quick acrobatics, and stamina. He said when dancing it is important to listen to the...

To see more on this story pick up the June 9, 2022 print edition of the Montgomery Messenger.