ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay – Every year on July 24, Paraguay designates Folk Dancer's Day across the nation, a significant occasion to celebrate its rich cultural heritage and highlight the value of traditional dance. Officially observed under Law No. 6722, enacted in 2022, this day notably coincides with the founding date of the Asunción Municipal Folkloric Ballet. The establishment of this ballet, Paraguay's first professional company, led by the legendary dancer and choreographer Lylú Torres, is considered a monumental event in the development of Paraguayan folk dance.
Law No. 6722 aims to raise public awareness of folk dance and promote its practice, especially among children and young people, thereby elevating this essential artistic expression of Paraguayan national culture. This initiative goes beyond a mere observance, demonstrating a national commitment to transmitting and revitalizing the dances that embody Paraguay's identity for future generations.
This year's Folk Dancer's Day was filled with a variety of free events, attracting significant public interest. The celebratory activities began last Tuesday and continued through Friday, July 25, showcasing active efforts to popularize folk dance.
Honoring a Legacy
Notably, this day not only commemorates the founding of the ballet but also pays tribute to the great master Eladio Domingo Barúa Obregón, who passed away on the same day in 2001. He is remembered not only for his numerous choreographic works but also for innovating Paraguayan dance and nurturing generations of dancers. Aníbal Lezcano, one of the main proponents of Law No. 6722, honored Barúa Obregón's achievements, emphasizing that he "left his choreographic works as a legacy and departed from us forever, an indefatigable educator who innovated Paraguayan dance and nurtured countless generations of dancers."
Diverse Celebrations and Workshops
As part of the commemorative events, the 'Desde el alma' art group hosted an afternoon of dance and learning in San Lorenzo. This event took place from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM on July 25 at the Abril Bogado Figure Skating Academy. Despite the 25,000 Guaraní participation fee, many gathered to learn the essence of traditional Paraguayan dance.
On the same day at 8:00 PM, the Fernando de la Mora Municipal Theater presented a performance titled ‘Revista Musical YMA: Memories of the Past.’ This show featured child artists from the Luque Municipal Conservatory, the Las Paraguayas music group, and a Batucada group (murga), offering a rich spectacle. Admission was 50,000 Guaraní.
Additionally, on Sunday, July 27, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, free open classes were held at the Ballet Koeti Rory in Luque, providing an opportunity for anyone to experience Paraguayan folk dance firsthand. For more information, inquiries could be made at (0991) 709-370.
Paraguay's Folk Dancer's Day has become a significant cultural event, showcasing the artistic sensibility and historical depth of the Paraguayan people. It symbolizes the continuous effort to safeguard Paraguay's identity and pass on its value to future generations. These endeavors are expected to contribute to Paraguay proudly presenting its unique culture on the world stage.
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