The Chickasaw Dance Troupe keeps traditions alive and connects others to Chickasaw culture by sharing songs, tribal dances and the ancient art of shell shaking. Performances are free to the public and scheduled daily at the Chickasaw Cultural Center. | The Chickasaw Nation

The Chickasaw word of the week is “Dance” or “Hilha’.” Dancing has been a part of Chickasaw tradition for many generations. Stomp dancing is an important aspect of Chickasaw culture. You can see a stomp dance demonstration at Chickasaw Nation cultural events or at the Chickasaw Cultural Center. #Chikashshanompa | #ChickasawLanguage | #Anompa | #SaySomethingInChickasaw | The Chickasaw Nation

Distinct from "social" dances, stomp dancing has a profound ceremonial and religious significance. Men sing, which takes the form of a prayer, while women keep the rhythm with shaker instruments such as box turtle shells and deer toes. Chickasaw dancer Julie Underwood explains what stomp dancing means to her in this episode of Thrive: Traditions. Watch a preview below and click the link to watch the full episode. https://bit.ly/3HmH7mp | Chickasaw.tv