‘Hatajo de Negritos’ and ‘Hatajo de Pallitas’ from…Peru
Representative List 2019
EN: The hatajo de negritos and the hatajo of pallitas are performed before nativity scenes and shrines prepared to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ
EN: The dance of pallitas or pastoras is performed by women to the twang of the guitar or the sound of a fiddle accompanied with zapateo and singing
EN: It is mandatory for all the dancers of the groups to participate in regular rehearsals commencing a few months before Christmas
EN: The hatajo de negritos and the hatajo of pallitas are taught to the younger generation from early childhood within a family
EN: Rehearsals are a crucial time to learn choreographies, rhythms and chants from both dances. Thanks to these seasoned dancers young members can learn the significance of the dance
EN: All the groups conduct a ceremony called baptism where all dancers reaffirm their commitment to the group and promise of devotion to baby Jesus
EN: Each group is under the artistic direction of a lead-dancer whose role is to teach the choreography, songs and rhythms to the participants
EN: During their performance, the groups offer salutation and worship songs to Baby Jesus and the Virgin Mary
EN: Groups of dancers perform also for family homes featuring nativity scenes. Hence, they are regarded as symbols of religious devotion, spiritual contemplation and joy of the population
EN: The hatajo de negritos is performed in town squares and in churches during December and January in preparation for Christmas, the Epiphany, the Festivity of the Virgin of El Carmen and the visit to Melchorita, the Servant of God
