Mestiza Qoyacha
Mestiza Qoyacha is a dance of republican origin that evokes the courtship between waynas (young Spaniards) and Qoyachas (young women of Inca lineage). It represents the mestizo joy of young people with romantic intentions, from which new marriages are born. Qoyacha translates as "Little Queen" or "Little Sovereign." In choreography and costumes, this dance is very similar to the previously described contradance and is also considered to be linked to agriculture. The characters lead each line, forming well-defined couples. The choreography has a variation called Waylllash, whose movements are derived from the peasant dance of the same name and which is also related to the worship of Pachamama and the pursuit of romantic relationships among young people. This photograph, taken on September 15, 2019, was made possible thanks to the group who entrusted me with photographing them. I hope to see them again at the celebration of the Lord of Qoyllur Riti.















