Moros y cristianos
Quick Summary
Moros y Cristianos, also known as moros or morisca, is a dance drama that originated in medieval Spain. It symbolizes the historical conflicts and eventual victory of Christians over Moors. This performance tradition was brought to Latin America by Spanish colonizers and adapted to local contexts.123
The dance typically features two opposing groups, Christians and Moors, engaged in a theatrical battle. In Latin America, these roles were sometimes refashioned to represent the Spanish conquerors and indigenous peoples. These performances often occur during religious festivals and are a significant part of cultural and social life in many communities. The moro-moro in the Philippines is an example of this tradition, where Christian Filipino armies are depicted defeating Moors.24
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Native American danceForeign influencesâŠsuch medieval religious productions as moros y cristianos (âMoors and Christiansâ) and the matachina dancesâboth for trained male societies.
Read MoreâŠsuch medieval religious productions as moros y cristianos (âMoors and Christiansâ) and the matachina dancesâboth for trained male societies.
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Native American danceThe Andean regionâŠthe dances feature battles of Moors and Christians, clowns, demons in fantastic masks, and animal characters. Some dramas ridicule the Spanish. The mountain fiestas often conclude with merry couple dances.
Read MoreâŠthe dances feature battles of Moors and Christians, clowns, demons in fantastic masks, and animal characters. Some dramas ridicule the Spanish. The mountain fiestas often conclude with merry couple dances.
Read More
Native American danceMexico and MesoamericaIn the drama of moros y cristianos, two factions mimetically tangle in arguments and battle with the ultimate victory of the Christians and the conversion of the Moors.
Read MoreIn the drama of moros y cristianos, two factions mimetically tangle in arguments and battle with the ultimate victory of the Christians and the conversion of the Moors.
Read More