A traditional Karen dance will be nominated for inclusion in Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list next year, reported 7Day News Daily.
The “don dance”—which means “to be in agreement”—will be put forward by the Kayin (Karen) state government, Saw Bo Bo Wai Maung, the state minister for Social Affairs, told the news outlet.
The dance is performed by two lines—one female, one male—and accompanied by traditional Karen instruments. Typically done at celebrations, it has shifted from a symbol of community solidarity to a symbol of Karen nationalism.
It embodies the spirit of the Karen, said Bo Bo Wai Maung, who added that a team had been formed to research the attire, performance, meaning and other elements of the dance.
If accepted, the tradition would be the first to achieve intangible cultural heritage status in Myanmar. Plans are also underway to nominate traditional Myanmar cosmetic thanaka to the list.
Check out some don dancing here.
