War Dance

Year Published: 1954

Complete Record: Demonstrates the "good time dance" of the Grass Dance Society of the Sioux Indians whose members were renowned warriors. Shows different ways of dancing and explains the symbolism of the traditional costume elements: the bustle, headdress, feathers, armband, etc. Contrasts the short ritualistic dance of the women circling the sun path in their heavily beaded costumes with the vigorous individualistic stepping of the warriors. Shows various Indian war dances with each dancer following his own individual style. The slow, ritualistic dancing of the women in their beautiful costumes is contrasted with the vigorous stepping of the warriors.