The Heard Museum will host the 34th Annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest this month.
Dozens of the top Indigenous hoop dancers will compete at the Museum’s Libby Amphitheater for world champion titles and prizes totaling $25,000 across multiple age divisions. The event goes from Saturday, Feb. 17 to Sunday, Feb. 18 at the Museum, located at 2301 N. Central Ave., in Phoenix.
“We’re honored to host this spectacular event, which combines artistry, athleticism, tradition and suspense for an unforgettable weekend of fellowship and competition,” David M. Roche, Heard Museum CEO, shared in a press release. “The art of hoop dance honors cultural traditions shared by multiple Indigenous communities, and we’re excited to welcome those community members to show off their talents to the Valley.”
The annual contest is recognized as the premier competition for the art of hoop dance throughout North America. The form was popularized by Tony Whitecloud (Jemez Pueblo) whose touring program inspired future generations of dancers. With roots in healing ceremonies, traditions, and practices, today’s hoop dance is shared as an artistic expression to honor Indigenous traditions throughout the U.S. and Canada.