Music a Dances in Panama

The Heartbeat of Panama: Traditional Folk Music & Dance

Tamborito: The National Dance

• What to Listen For: A vibrant call-and-response between a female singer, the cantalante, and a choir, all driven by the compelling rhythm of three drums. The synchronized clapping from the audience is an integral part of the music.

• What to Watch For: This is Panama’s national courtship dance. Observe the couples circling each other, with the woman gracefully maneuvering her elaborate skirt and the man performing energetic, respectful steps and gestures.

• The Costume: The woman’s dress, the Pollera, is a stunning, multi-layered white garment adorned with intricate, colorful embroidery. The man’s attire is simpler, consisting of a montuno (a long-sleeved shirt, often embroidered) and black trousers.

• Where to See It: The most authentic performances occur during festivals in the Azuero Peninsula, particularly in towns like Las Tablas, Guararé, and Chitré. You may also see polished versions at tourist-focused restaurants in Panama City.

Cumbia Panameña: A Rhythmic Journey

• How It’s Different: Unlike the more widely known Colombian cumbia, Panama’s version is often more instrumental, traditionally featuring the violin and, in modern interpretations, the accordion. The dance involves a characteristic shuffle-step, with partners moving together in a circle.

• Two Main Styles: You will encounter regional variations, primarily the Cumbia Santeña from the Azuero Peninsula and the Cumbia Chorrerana from the district of La Chorrera, each with its own distinct rhythm and instrumentation.

• Where to Experience It: This dance is a common feature at local fairs (ferias) and community celebrations, offering a genuine glimpse into local life, especially in the country’s interior regions.

Congo Dance: Afro-Caribbean Heritage

• A Story in Dance: Originating from escaped African slaves (Cimarrones) during the colonial era, the Congo is a dramatic dance-drama that satirizes the Spanish rulers. This is a powerful, historically significant performance that tells a story of resistance, not merely a simple dance.

• The Characters: Look for the Queen and King, who represent African royalty, and the Diablos (devils), who wear colorful, menacing masks and represent the Spanish enslavers. Their interactions form the core of the narrative.

• Best Seen In: The most potent performances are found in the province of Colón, specifically in the historic town of Portobelo. Plan to visit during the Carnival season or for the biennial Festival of the Black Christ to witness this tradition.

Modern Rhythms: From City to Coast

Típico: The Sound of the People

• What It Is: This is Panama’s modern popular folk music. An evolution of cumbia, Típico is dominated by the accordion and is the soundtrack to celebrations and social gatherings across the country.

• The Vibe: The atmosphere is high-energy, celebratory, and centered around partner dancing. At a Típico event, you will see locals of all ages filling the dance floor with impressive stamina.

• Where to Hear It: On weekends, look for venues called jardines or toldos. These are often large, open-air dance halls where famous Típico bands perform for enthusiastic crowds. Be prepared for a long night, as these events often continue past 3 AM.

Salsa and Caribbean Influences

• City Rhythms: Salsa has a strong following in Panama City’s bars and clubs. You will find many excellent salsa clubs, particularly in the atmospheric streets of Casco Viejo or within the modern financial district.

• Reggae en Español: Panama is a pioneer of Spanish-language reggae, an art form that evolved into the global phenomenon of Reggaeton. You will hear it everywhere—in taxis, shops, and on the radio. It is a fundamental part of the modern urban soundscape.

How to Experience Panamanian Music & Dance

Finding Live Performances

• Dinner Shows: For an accessible introduction, many restaurants in Panama City, especially in Casco Viejo, offer dinner shows featuring traditional dances like Tamborito.

• Folkloric Ballets: For a more formal presentation, check the schedules for the Teatro Nacional or Teatro Balboa. These venues occasionally host performances by professional folkloric dance troupes.

• Ask a Local: Your tour guide, driver, or hotel concierge is your best resource. They can provide information on authentic, local Típico nights or community festivals that may be happening during your stay.

Key Festivals for Music & Dance

• Carnival: Held during the four days leading up to Ash Wednesday, this is Panama’s biggest celebration. The most famous festivities are in Las Tablas, featuring massive parades with competing musical groups known as tunas.

• Festival Nacional de la Mejorana: This is one of the country’s most important folk festivals, held in Guararé each September. It is a premier showcase of traditional music, dance competitions, and instrument craftsmanship.

• Festival Nacional de la Pollera: Taking place in Las Tablas in July, this event is a beautiful celebration of the national dress, featuring parades of women in their finest polleras and numerous Tamborito dance competitions.

A Note on Participation

• Watching a Performance: Be a respectful observer. It is best to avoid using flash photography unless you see others doing so or have been given permission. Show your appreciation with enthusiastic applause.

• Joining In: At a local jardín or feria, do not be shy. Panamanians are generally welcoming and enjoy sharing their culture. If you are invited to dance, consider it a wonderful opportunity to participate. The basic steps of Típico are relatively easy to pick up by watching those around you.