The Alutiiq people traditionally passed on knowledge about their heritage and everyday life through dance and song. Wearing bentwood hats, masks, beaded headdresses and clothing, dancers performed for their community, telling stories of men hunting, parents teaching children, women being courted, the tribe's wish for fair weather, and other lighthearted topics, such as thanks for new labrets (facial adornments worn by both men and women).
The Sun'aq Tribal Dancers, our current troupe of dancers, who range from toddlers to adults, have been performing since 1987, enthusiastically bringing to life our traditional songs and dances. Dancers practice three times a week in the afternoon and perform in the island's villages during Alutiiq Week. They also give performances for tourists in downtown Kodiak and at the Alaska Federation of Natives conference in Anchorage during the summer. The traditional regalia, which they wear during performances, is the creation of tribal members.
We welcome any Alaska Native who would like to become part of our dance troupe and invite all to come see us perform in person or on video tape (available for a fee from the tribal office).
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