The women of Suiti, Latvia...
Deep in the heart of western Latvia, you’ll find the Suiti Land, a place where some of the country’s most colorful traditions are still alive and well and still party of everyday life.
That woman in a bright red dress, head scarf and colorful shawl you spot on arriving in Alsunga? That’s probably just one of the local Suiti singers, heading off to join her sisters at the local community hall.The Suiti were listed as a global intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2009, and the Suiti women are instrumental in keep the culture and traditions alive. They run workshops teaching the younger generation Suiti handicrafts and recruit them to sing in the typical Suiti way. It's very tonal, and the lyrics are designed to tease the listener by criticising their appearance and habits in a warm and friendly way.
The Alsunga Administrative District Museum gives a good overview of the Suiti and their traditions, with a display of traditional costumes and a recreation of a typical Suiti kitchen. But for a real understanding of the Suiti, you need to see the Suiti women sing. Performances are good-natured and fun and very entertaining. Be warned: you will be mocked. And expected to join in!
You might get lucky and catch them performing at the museum. Or you could arrange a personal performance, but that is a little expensive. Your best chance is one of the local festivals like St Michael’s Day in September, Summer Solstice or Easter where they are sure to perform. Check with the Alsunga Tourism Information Centre for details.
~ Source: Elder Mountain Dreaming
