The History of Fire Dancing

THE AZTECS

The ancient Aztecs performed rituals to the fire god ‘Xiuhtecuhtli.’ This fire dance is still performed in Mexico today to demonstrate ancient traditions.

Aztec fire dance

ISLAND CULTURES

French Polynesia, Antiqua, Cuba, Saint Lucia and Bali all have fire dancing as part of their culture and tradition. In Bali fire dancing was originally used in a trance like ritual called the ‘Sanghyang’; it was a dance of protection to ward off witches.

MODERN FIRE DANCING

Fire dancing today can been seen all over the world, from demonstrations of ancient traditions to breathtaking circus performances. Typically ‘Fire Dancing’ in a circus act is performed as the Grande Finale of an event.

From our co-production of “The Witches” Theatre on FIRE