Peruvians independence with food, music

Vida en el Valle
(Published Wednesday, July 23rd, 2008 08:51AM)

Vida en el Valle

FRESNO -- Héctor Adriano, 43, came from his native Perú to the United States 20 years ago and works as a mechanic. Even though he has established roots in the U.S., his native land is not forgotten.

Less than two years ago, Adriano and his wife, Nilda, established La Institución Internacional Centro Cultural Vista Alegre-Potaca USA. The Peruvian folkloric dance group specializes in dances from Adriano's hometown of Huancayo.

The group was the featured entertainment at last Saturday's Peruvian independence day celebration sponsored by Fresno's Club Inka Peruano.

"We established the group so that we don't lose our dance and culture," said Adriano, who also performs with the 16-member group.

Adriano began dancing when he was 15. Most of his dancers have to make time for rehearsals in between their education and work, he said, but they are just as dedicated as he is to preserve the culture.

The women's elegantly designed and colorful costumes, which cost about $600 each, are authentic and made in Perú.

The folkloric dance was just a part of Saturday's celebration of the 187th anniversary of Perú's independence from Spanish rule.

Participants enjoyed Peruvian dishes like papa a la huancaina (a potato and egg dish from southern Perú), ceviche (seafood), and seco de carne (a meat dish from northern Perú).