The Ministry of Culture of Peru announced on April 29 that it has honored six individuals and two cultural groups with the title of Meritorious Personality of Culture, acknowledging their contributions to the development, preservation, and promotion of dance in the country.
This recognition was presented during a ceremony at the central headquarters of the Ministry. The honorees include Juana Deifilia Fernández de Malpartida for her work in rescuing and promoting dances from Ayacucho; Cristina Natali Velarde Chainskaia for her achievements as a teacher, choreographer, and performing arts researcher; Margarita Paico Nieto for promoting traditional singing and marinera limeña; Eduardo Israel Gago Mago for his role as a folkloric dance director and educator; Rosie Schottland Bitterman for her career as a ballet instructor and innovator in teaching methods; Miguel Ángel Figueroa Núñez for his efforts in spreading Puno’s cultural expressions; Peña Artístico Cultural Huaytará Arqueológico Pacha (PACHA PERÚ) for its dedication to traditional music and dance preservation; and Taller de Danzas Folklóricas “Todas las Sangres” for advancing Peruvian folklore.
The event highlighted how these artists have passed on their knowledge, techniques, and styles to new generations while strengthening both traditional and contemporary forms of dance. “During the ceremony, we valued the artistic legacy of those honored, highlighting their sustained work in transmitting knowledge,” said organizers at the Ministry.
According to the official website, the Ministry fosters social inclusion by protecting heritage and promoting diversity throughout Peru. It also utilizes decentralized facilities such as museums alongside its San Borja headquarters to support cultural programs. The ministry operates under autonomous leadership within Peru’s Executive Branch.
The ministry works to promote cultural identity while combating discrimination and racism. It encourages intercultural dialogue across communities nationwide under its minister’s direction.
Created in 2010, according to its official website, the Ministerio de Cultura del Perú oversees national policy related to culture. Its initiatives aim at safeguarding heritage while supporting social inclusion through diverse cultural industries.
