Carlos Chavarria Devil Greetings, Baptisms, and Crossing Feet

In this excerpt, Chavarría discusses the way in which hierarchies of Congo Devils greet one another, how they are baptized within the tradition, and the importance of crossing one’s feet and “dancing” in the devil way.

Carlos Chavarria Memories of Celedonio Molinar

In this excerpt, Chavarría shares cherished memories of his mentor, Celedonio Molinar, including seeing him “fly” from roof to roof as Major Devil. Chavarría also discusses important lessons and ritual practices that he learned from his mentor about performing the Major Devil role.

Carlos Chavarria Style of Devil

In this excerpt, Chavarría discusses his particular style of “Devil” embodiment within the Congo tradition and the way others perceive of his performance. He also talks about the respect devils from outside of the community give to the devil of the town they are visiting. Each visiting devil must submit to the rules of the game as practiced by the local community.

Ileana Solis Palma Ritualized Preparation to Transform into Major Devil

In this excerpt, Solís discusses the ritual process that Celedonio used to prepared to “transform” into the Major Devil character.

Simona Esquina Mama Guardia

In this excerpt, Esquina discusses the changes she has seen in the Congo tradition over the course of her lifetime. Specifically, she talks about the role that a character named “Mama Guardia” once played.

Simona Esquina Changes to the Role of the Pajarito

In this excerpt, Esquina discusses the changes she has seen in the Congo tradition over the course of her lifetime. Specifically, she talks about the role that Pajarito, the Little Bird, once played in the Congo game, and the ways in which the character and the game have shifted. The construction of the road signaled the end of the game as one between neighboring Congo Kingdoms who competed to capture each others’ palacio/palenque. The contemporary game is between the discrete Congo communities and the character of the devil.

Simona Esquina Tourism Reviving Congo Tradition

In this short excerpt, Esquina talks about the ways in which tourism is reviving aspects of the Congo tradition in Portobelo.

Simona Esquina Changes to the Role of the Princess

In this excerpt, Esquina discusses the changes she has seen in the Congo tradition over the course of her lifetime. Specifically, she talks about the role that the princess character once played.