Greenlanders have been expressing culture through song and performance since the earliest times. In old days, men held public drum dance competitions against each other to solve conflicts in their camps, and storytelling to share hunting experiences and descriptions of fjords was a primary purpose of summer gatherings. Mask dancing, an expressive celebration of fertility and sexuality, created buzz and laughter in the crowd.
Though these traditions do not serve the same functions as before, they are still learned and performed today at the National Theatre of Greenland and by individuals. Musical performances are also a central part of daily life, with special occasions in school or the community usually commemorated by a few numbers from one of the local choirs.
Though these traditions do not serve the same functions as before, they are still learned and performed today at the National Theatre of Greenland and by individuals. Musical performances are also a central part of daily life, with special occasions in school or the community usually commemorated by a few numbers from one of the local choirs.
