Kiriwkiw Folk Dance - History [2021]

The male dancer usually pursues the female dancer in a stylized game of "cat and mouse," using the beckoning finger motions to draw her closer. This interaction reflects the traditional courtship customs of rural Pangasinan, where subtlety and grace were highly valued. Costume and Music

Performers engage in continuous, rhythmic shaking of the hands, legs, and body as they move around the dance hall. kiriwkiw folk dance history

"They have a peculiar exercise... They squat low, holding sabres crossed above their heads, and kick forward like spurred cocks. The noise of their boots is like musket fire. They sing a guttural cry: 'Kiriw-kiw-kiw!' until the chieftain raises his mace. I have seen a man dance this until his boots ran red with blood." The male dancer usually pursues the female dancer