The choreographic heritage of Agüimes comes to life once again thanks to the research and recovery work by dancer and researcher Ángel Manuel Vega. Following a first edition dedicated to the municipality of Ingenio, the author launches the second volume of 'Los Bailes Tradicionales de Gran Canaria' (Traditional Dances of Gran Canaria). This new publication focuses on the indigenous dances of Agüimes, serving as a tool for the preservation, teaching, and dissemination of the island's popular folklore.
The work was made possible through the collaboration of the Agrupación Folklórica Argones (Argones Folk Group) and the Agüimes City Council, via its Department of Culture, which funded the edition. The official presentation will take place on May 29th, at 7:00 PM, in the Plenary Hall of the Agüimes City Council.
Ángel Manuel Vega emphasizes the need to prevent the loss of cultural memory linked to traditional dance. "Agüimes possesses enormous folkloric richness and dances with a very distinct personality. It was necessary to document them, organize them, and transmit them clearly so they can remain alive for new generations," explains the author.
The book adopts a practical and didactic approach, including detailed explanations of the dances, sequenced descriptions, figures, and choreographic structures, accompanied by visual support to facilitate understanding and learning. Among the pieces collected are the Mazurca de Agüimes, Folías, El Pericón, El Tostador, and La Buena Moza, dances that reflect the collective identity of the municipality.
The researcher highlights the importance of documenting oral traditions for their rigorous transmission. "Often, folklore is preserved only visually or orally, which leads to certain details disappearing over time. What we are trying to do is leave a useful and accessible document for dancers, groups, schools, and anyone interested in learning," states Vega.
The book's creation has benefited from the support of key figures in local folklore, such as the dancer Pepe Cabrera, whose experience has been fundamental. Additionally, audiovisual material from different eras and historical groups like AF La Villa de Agüimes and AF Argones, heirs of the former Sección Femenina de Agüimes (Women's Section of Agüimes), was analyzed comparatively to maintain the original essence of each dance.
This publication represents a significant step in preserving the intangible cultural heritage of Agüimes and in disseminating folklore among new generations, highlighting the collaborative work between cultural collectives and public institutions.
Ángel Manuel Vega insists that the ultimate goal is to strengthen society's connection with its history. "A traditional dance is not just choreography; it is history, identity, and collective memory," he affirms.
The new volume will be available after the official presentation at the Canaima and Katina bookstores. Sales points will be updated on the Instagram profile @losbailestradicionalesdegc.
