Jazz Fest Weekend

Experience the wonders of the world of Mesoamerica, through Mexico’s ancient music and dance. Traditional music of the Mayan civilization, along with Aztec dances, is presented by America Indigena with true authenticity.

All instruments are handmade by master musician Xavier Quijas Yxayotl, most being authentic replicas of ancient instruments. This is a rare opportunity not only to hear them, but also to learn about them and their importance to these cultures. Xavier has worked for 30 years researching and investing his life in this ancient musical tradition. The results are sounds and sights that are uniquely displayed in a compelling stage spectacle.

Xavier works with a troupe of five Aztec dancers, who have mastered both the art of the intensely physical dances and the craft of the exquisite, colorful costuming. Each performer makes their own costumes, and each performance’s costume designs are unique, employing feathers up to four feet in length, gold sequins and vivid cloths. The dances depict various aspects of Aztec religion and daily life, including prayers to the Gods, hunting, and the ultimate expression of faith, the Fire Dance, in which the dancer’s elevated emotional state makes him impervious to the effects of the fire on his skin.

http://www.myspace.com/yxayotl