Zimbabwe
Dance is an important place in the Zimbabwean culture, tradition, spirituality and history. There are many dances that reflect the culture of the people, although the dances may have changed throughout the years. Ethnic diversity is also a key factor in influencing the dances of the Zimbabwean culture. These dances are self-reflective, for the entire community because all music and dance are communal events.
Dance to Zimbabweans is a very spiritual, powerful tool that carries on traditions, and chronicles the important events of their history and culture.
Source :Wikipedia Read
List Of Dances
Dinhe
The Dinhe dance is a religious dance that is also performed to lure spirits into speaking to the community. A lot of war movements and movements of joy are used in this dance.
This dance also reflects the agricultural aspect of life, and such props reflecting these themes may also be used.
The Dinhe dance uses different songs to accompany the dance, and the mood of the song indicates which spirits trying to be conjured.
References :
Welsh-Asante, K. (2000), Zimbabwe Dance: Rhythmic Forces, Ancestral Voices: an Aesthetic Analysis Trenton, NJ: Africa World Press
Tawanda muChinyakare Read
ZIMBABWE
Region:
MaShonaland Central in Northern Zimbabwe
Ethnic group:
Korekore
Mbira
Credit : Jennifer Kyker
Mbira dance is a characteristic, traditional ritual dance, accompanied by the mbira instrument (Mbira are a family of musical instruments), traditional to the Shona people of Zimbabwe and used as a medium to invite ancestral spirits into the midst of the community. Mbira dance and music therefore play a significant role in bringing the spirits of the ancestors into the community.
Mbira dance is regarded as unique for its intricate foot movements, graceful pauses and high-energy jump bursts. While Mbira dance is performed in community with others, it can also be a solo dance for purposes of entertainment and building physical strength.
It is designed for specific occasions, usually religious in nature, and it is used to express the people. The Mbira dance is often used to lure spirits to come out through spirit mediums and communicate with the people.
This dance is carried on by the elders of the tribes, and is very powerful in its
spiritual traditions. The costumes worn by Mbira dancers are usually made by natural resources such as grass and animal skin.
References:
Wikipedia read
Traditional dances of Zimbabwe read
ZIMBABWE
Region:
Ethnic group:
Shona
