Polleras in Boquete - Panama's most beautiful butterflies

Reply To:	Mark Heyer <markh@heyertech.com>

By now, most of us have an idea about the pollera, the unique national costume of Panama. We see polleras in advertisements and tourist brochures. But what does it all really mean to Panamanian culture, and where does it come from?

Friday, acting on a tip from a Panamanian friend that there was going to be a pollera event sponsored by the city starting at the La Posada at 5PM, we adjourned to a window seat at the La Posada and waited to see what would happen. What we discovered turned out to be one of the most charming, enlightening and joyous experiences of our time in Boquete. Panamanian men and women, young and old, came from various parts of Panama (don't even ask me where all),  to dance and strut their polleras. Several bands also materialized and soon we were engulfed in a maelstrom  of what appeared to be swirling, twirling, glittering exotic butterflies, each more beautiful than the last.

Like never before, we got a closeup look at the range and diversity of the Pollera art and performance, where each community develops a unique style, and every element of the costume has a special meaning. But for me, the real revelation was how the pollera tradition spans and unites the generations in Panama, connecting the youngest to the oldest on an equal footing, teaching poise and grace and self confidence, and everyone absolutely enjoying the experience and living entirely in the moment. 

And as always, the beauty of the Panamanian women of all ages shines through. In our recent unscientific survey by car of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, we can report that Panamanian women win hands down. I have no doubt that the pollera tradition plays no small part in developing their true beauty, which is so much more than just good genes. 

In the space of less than an hour, I shot upwards of 600 pictures. Here is a selection of the best, which I am honored to have the privilege of sharing with our wonderful community. Below, the march of the generations.

Mark Heyer

   

   

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