Family members come together from near and far, they erect teepees, park caravans and organise picnics. Stands selling traditional food and crafts are placed around the dance arena and audience seating areas; there is a ceremonial parade, the Grand Entry, and associated events such as a “Miss Indian” competition, awards to veterans and sometimes rodeos.


The focus is on the dances, which are performed in separate categories: senior citizens (over 50s), men and women from 18-49, teenagers (13-17) and children (6- 12). There is a further distinction between Southern and Northern Dances: The former were cultivated by the tribes in and around Oklahoma while the latter originate in the more northern areas. The dances are accompanied by different Drums in turn. These are groups of at least fi ve singers, including a Lead Singer, who sit at the edge of the dance area around a large drum and accompany their cultural songs with rhythmic beats. Their performance is also judged by a jury.


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Powwows are ideal for getting to know the characteristics and cultures of the Native Americans. The museums for each of the tribes also offer insight into their history and traditions. The largest nation is the Cherokee (approximately 100,000 members) who live around the small capital city of Tahlequah, southeast of Tulsa. Visitors are welcomed to the Cherokee Heritage Center (www. cherokeeheritage.org) and Cherokee Cultural Tours also offer opportunities to learn about the way the Cherokee live today. The Chickasaw Nation opened a modern multimedia cultural centre in Sulphur, south of Oklahoma City, which architecturally and conceptually is one of the most interesting Native American museums in the USA (www.chickasawculturalcenter. com). The Comanche National Museum is in Lawton (www.comanchemuseum.com) and the American Indian Cultural Center & Museum is still under construction in Oklahoma City.


POWWOW ETIQUETTE


At fi rst sight, a powwow might look like a funfair, but for the Native Americans it is a sacred event held in accordance with certain rules. A Master of Ceremonies oversees the event which always takes place in a circular dance arena, frequently open to the air. There is seating around the arena with seats under cover reserved for the participants and the elders. When the US and tribal fl ags are presented or when prayers are said, the members of the audience must stand and remove their hats. The audience may also join in the intertribal dance. As a rule, photography is permitted, but it is forbidden to use a fl ash during the competition and to make video recordings. Information: www. powwow-power.com or www.powwows.com


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