Apache Crown Dance

Dancers became "the embodiment of the Mountain Spirits (the Gaan)"; they wear special masks and wands during the dance.

Eventually the girl follows the "clown" Gaan around the plaza and the guests fall in line after her.

The "clown" holds a mixture of ochre and corn pollen that is sprinkled or brushed over the girl by the other Gaan.

The Gaan bring a powerful spirituality to the ceremony as the Apache girl is transformed and attains womanhood.

[1]Gaan dancers dance to songs, opening of the first one says:[2] I, the Crown Dancer, I come down To the holy place To the earth Each Apache community has their own version of gaan history; they are usually told in the night before the ceremony or in the winter to instruct the children.