30 Nebraskaland • August-September 2023
the circle.
Then we have a break around 5 p.m. to stop and eat. Last
year, we had a Ponca poet who read stories.
We'll have a second grand entry around 7 o' clock. During
the evening, we also do specials and giveaways, especially to
recognize our previous head staff . We'll also sing honoring
songs to relatives who passed away.
Q: What is the purpose of the Grand Entry?
A: The Grand Entry is what starts everything up. We line
up in a certain fashion, depending on what kind of dancer
you are and whether you are female or male. In front is the
head man, and he'll be carrying the Ponca eagle staff . Then
we'll have three veterans carrying fl ags: the Ponca fl ag, U.S.
fl ag and POW fl ag. Following behind are the Ponca princesses,
straight dancers, men's traditional and grass dancers, and then
women's traditional, fancy shawl and jingle dress dancers.
Q: How is the head man chosen?
A: The head man is selected each year by our powwow
committee. He has to be a Ponca member, and the committee
looks to see who has given their heart out when they're
dancing.
It's an honor to be a head man.
Southern drums, pictured, set up in the center of the powwow circle, as opposed to northern drums,
which set up on the outside of the arena.
