Theatrical performance of Palenque Rojo

History consists of conquering empires and mythical beings, of beauty, betrayal, life and death. To see is to understand and history can only continue if its story is told.

This evening Caila and I decided to treat ourselves to the historical performance of Palenque Rojo. The performance was done in Mayan language and consisted of some of the most beautiful costumes I had ever seen. Traditional headdresses, body paint, dance, rituals, drumming and inscents created an ancient Mayan atmosphere.

Archeologists and historians worked together to recreate the story of Palenque Rojo. The performance captures the extraordinary tale of Mayan Ruler Kan Joy Chitam II, son of the Great Ruler Pakal II and brother of Kam Balam II. The famous and majestic city of Palenque was given its splendorous linage through the tales of these historic and powerful leaders.

The story is told of a time when there were two great city-states that embraced within the extraordinary lands of the Maya, they were Palenque and Tonina. These two cities were in constant competition to control the commercial route from the Gulf of Mexico to the heart of Peten, now known as Guatemalea.

Kan Joy Chitam was one of the most brilliant leaders in Palenque history and in the summer of 711 AD, in an attempt to take control, Tonina attacks Palenque and kidnaps Ruler Kan Joy Chitam. One of the most miraculous things about this story, is the attack was planned by a women, the Ruler Kawil who had been newly widowed, dressed in the military robes of her husband and commanded the attention of her people.

In time Kan Joy Chitam escapes from his imprisonment and returns to Palenque, where even today, how he escaped is unknown. Kan Joy Chitam recognized his old age and with great honour, placed his nephew in the throne and confronted his destiny. Setting an example of wisdom, compassion and humility, he retired and offered his life to the gods in a ritual of self-sacrifice.

It is said that after his death, Kan Joy Chitam transformed into a star within the heavens where he is to reign in the cosmos for eternity.

This performance may have been one of the most extraordinary I have ever seen. The theater was small and set to appear as a jungle from the moment you enter. With clothe wines, shadows and mist surrounding you, you feel as though you have entered the jungle and are among the ancient Mayan people. With the beat of the drum you grow anxious to see what is next and the beauty of the costume and tranquility in the movement makes you feel as though time has stopped.

Within the next few weeks Loyalist College ISW students will be traveling to Palenque to visit the ancient ruins of Palenque, some of Mexico’s largest and most visited ruins in the country. I am looking forward to walking the same grounds as these powerful people and being able to learn more about the history of the Mayan people.