Cherokee Butterfly Legend
Some say the modern day Pow Wow competition dance known as the Ladies Fancy Shawl Dance has its roots in a ceremonial dance called the Butterfly Dance. Here is a Cherokee account of how that dance came to be.
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Team Pow Wow Dancers
Team Pow Wow Dancing is another relatively new addition to the pow wow celebration. Generally, three or four members who make up a team all dance in the same style. They must synchronize their steps. Team Dancers are judged on their synchronization, their outfits, how well they look together and how well their steps are put together.
The gourd dance and gourd dance rattles
The Gourd Dance is not an intertribal or competition “Pow Wow Style” of dance. Gourd Dances are held regularly by several groups especially in Oklahoma. Today the dance is being done at some Pow Wows before, after, and between intertribal dancing.
The Round Dance
The Round Dance was in earlier times known as The Dance of the Slain. Women were the main performers of this dance, which allowed them to show their pride and mourning at the same time.
The Crow Hop
A unique form of dancing which has developed within the Indian culture is the Crow Hop. It has also been called the Skip Dance and the Jump Dance.
Owl Dance
The Owl Dance is performed by couples to the beat of a hand drum. It is performed at social events and all ages participate.