Fusing traditional and contemporary dance

Nations Native American Dance Theater performsAs the drum beat steadily, Vaughnda Hilton, a Native American performer, began to chant methodically "Once we were many-we were happy and free and a part of the land," as part of the Nations Native American Dance Theater performance Friday night.

"What we are trying to do here at Native Nations American Dance Theater is we are trying to create songs that are simple and short enough so that our children can learn the language," Hilton said. "Therefore, the songs are based on tradition, but are contemporary at the same time."