Light Shows and Narratives of the Past.

This paper discusses Mexican light and sound shows at archaeological sites, with a focus on clashing narratives in the relationship between archaeology, nationalism, and tourism. My analysis of light shows reveals the confluence and contradiction of two opposing narratives about the use and presentation of the past. This article is divided into three parts. The first provides the context for the analysis of light shows. The second analyzes the earliest shows in México (1968-90), with a focus on how nationalists converted light shows in the face of criticism. This second part particularly examines light shows installed at Teotihuacan, but also includes light shows installed at other sites. The third section discusses the latest developments in the installation of light shows in México (2000-09). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]