Cultural Significance of Dance Symbols

Ria Thundercloud shares her journey as a dancer, rooted in her Native American heritage. She describes receiving her first jingle dress, its cultural significance, and her experiences at powwows. Ria explores various dance styles, faces challenges in balancing classical and traditional dance, and embarks on a professional dance career. Throughout, she maintains a deep connection to her ancestors and culture.

What is the significance of the jingle dress in Ria's culture?

• It is a healing dress that sends blessings.

• It is a traditional wedding dress.

• It is worn during harvest festivals.

• It is a ceremonial dress for elders.

What does the dance arena symbolize in Ria's culture?

• A symbol of unity with no beginning or end.

• A place for competition.

• A representation of the four seasons.

• A space for individual expression.

How did Ria's brother encourage her before her first solo dance?

• He gave her a special dance outfit.

• He promised her a reward.

• He whispered 'dance hard' in her ear.

• He played her favorite song.

Which dance style did Ria start learning at the age of 13?

• Jazz

• Tap

• Ballet

• Fancy Shawl

What title did Ria win at the Nationals in Las Vegas?

• International Dance Challenge Champion

• National Dance Champion

• Global Dance Star

• World Dance Champion

What challenge did Ria face in classical dance?

• It was rigid and structured, unlike what she was used to.

• It was not expressive enough.

• It required too much travel.

• It was too similar to traditional dance.

Which countries did Ria travel to as a professional dancer?

• Russia, New Zealand, Italy, Greece

• Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru

• Japan, China, Korea, India

• South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya

What did the eagle wings symbolize for Ria?

• A representation of her cultural heritage.

• A symbol of her dance achievements.

• A connection to her ancestors and the spirit world.

• A gift from her dance mentor.

How does Ria ensure her daughter's name is pronounced correctly?

• She corrects people when they say it wrong.

• She uses a nickname instead.

• She writes it down for people.

• She teaches her daughter to ignore mispronunciations.

What is Ria's commitment to her cultural heritage?

• To teach dance classes worldwide.

• To preserve and honor her culture through dance.

• To write a book about her dance journey.

• To create a dance school for indigenous children.