The Significance of Tribal Dance in Culture and Tradition

Ballet, modern dance, and other classical dance forms are all types of theatre dance, with the dancers often being highly trained professionals who perform for audiences in specific locations and on special occasions.

WHAT IS A TRIBAL DANCE?

Tribal dances are a vital component of many civilizations and frequently express the symbols and beliefs of the tribe that performs them. These ceremonies have a significant role in the culture; they vary from region to region, representing the unique traditions and culture of the tribe.

Many tribal dances are ceremonial, performed to mark important milestones or events in the life of the tribe. Some tribal dances are also used for healing or communication with the spirit world. It is often through their dances that tribes transmit their traditions and culture to the next generations.

The Maasai jumping dance, called Adumu, is thought to have developed as a method for warriors to train for combat and showcase their endurance, agility and strength. Nowadays, it is performed on different special occasions such as weddings, religious rituals, and other cultural festivals. Men and women prepare for the dance by painting designs on their faces and bodies with a red, earthy pigment called ochre, and they dress in intricate, colourful beadwork necklaces and shawls.

Dancers stand in a circle, then one at a time they move into the centre, jumping in time to the rhythm of traditional Maasai singing and chanting. It’s important to keep the body as straight as possible and heels shouldn’t touch the ground between jumps, as dancers are judged on the height and grace of their jumps. The women sing and dance too; mothers sing about the courage of their sons, whilst the girls sing to encourage their favourite warrior.

From the Maasai Adumu to the Mosuo with their traditional Jiacuo Dance.

The origin of the Mosuos’ Jiacuo Dance is related to war. When the Mosuo people were attacked by foreign nationalities, the tribal leader set a fire at the village entrance, prompting the Mosuo people to shout and dance in encouragement of the soldiers. The Mosuo people danced happily around the fire after claiming victory, and as a result, the Jiacuo Dance became a group entertainment square dance. It is now a dance for people to celebrate harvest, festivals and prayer ceremonies. It also provides an opportunity for young men and women to find their soulmate.

Tribal dances are essential because they are a reflection of a culture. They embody the history, beliefs, and traditions of a people. They are also a form of communication, allowing people to share stories, news, and messages. And finally, tribal dances are a way to celebrate life and bring joy to the community.