“MUYU” Traditional Dance is a dance group founded in 2019 in the parish of San Juan de Ilumán, located in the province of Imbabura. It was created as a space for cultural recreation and artistic expression through traditional Andean dance. The group welcomeschildren, youth, and adults, with the mission of strengthening cultural identity and preserving the ancestral knowledge of the Kichwa people of Imbabura and Ecuador.
The word “Muyu” comes from the Kichwa language and means seed and happiness – a symbolic reference to life, fertility, and the continuity of tradition.
The group consists of 30 members – art and dance enthusiasts who use choreography to depict rituals, beliefs, customs, and traditions of the Andean peoples. Every dancer’s movement tells a story and expresses deep cultural and spiritual meaning. Dance becomes a language through which the history of the Kichwa people is told.
For five years, the group has been led by Ab. John Tituaña. Under his leadership, “MUYU” has become a cultural reference point both nationally and internationally. Their artistic and authentic performances transform tradition into a living stage expression that strengthens the spirit and identity of the Kichwa people.
The group has represented Ecuador in various dance and music festivals across the country and abroad – including countries such as Colombia and Peru – receiving warm welcomes and widespread recognition.
“MUYU” has received numerous awards at the local, national, and international levels. The group has also been honored with the title of Honorary Cultural Ambassadors of Imbabura by the Municipality of Otavalo.
“MUYU”’s choreographies portray the cultural identity and traditions of the Kichwa communities. The dances are performed to the rhythm of San Juanito, a traditional musical style from Imbabura and Ecuador.
“MUYU”’s performances are both a tribute to the past and a living testimony of the endurance and vitality of Andean culture.
