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(LIP-ir) -- To continue the tradition of promoting the Marinera, one of Peru's most elegant dances, the 48th National Northern Marinera contest is to take place in Trujillo from January 22 to 27.

As a representative of the contest, a young woman is chosen from among the daughters of the members of the "La Libertad” Club and is named the contest's queen.

After having been prepared to be the contest's queen for one year, the young lady represents the organization during the contest.

This year's queen of the Festival is Trujillo’s María José Vélez Ganoza, a 20 year old that decided to participate in this contest to represent not only the organization, but also her hometown.

“I am in this contest for my hometown, because it is not only about representing the organizers, but also Trujillo, which has a lot of tradition and a rich culture”, Vélez told Andina news agency.

"Marinera is a faithful expression of Peru's northern culture", said Vélez as she invited everyone to visit Trujillo and attend this event.

The festival's queen explained she would not participate in beauty pageants because she did not want to be part of that world. On the other hand, she acknowledged the importance of what Peru's María Julia Mantilla, Miss World 2004, has done so far for the country and Trujillo.

The Mansiche Arena in Trujillo is to be the stage for this National Marinera Contest, the most elegant couples dance in Peru. Different categories and choreographic styles are judged. Both dancers swirl while waving a white handkerchief and executing a number of characteristic steps.

The male dancer wears a poncho and a hat, and if riding horseback, he does so on a Peruvian Paso horse. The female dancer wears a beautiful typical regional dress.

News source: ANDINA