History of Senegal Traditional Dance
Senegalese traditional dance reflects the diverse cultural and natural history of Senegal. As in most of Africa, Senegalese music and dance accompany everyday activities as well as special occasions. Dances range from Mbalax, a Wolof dance, to Lenjin, a dance of the Jula tribe in southern Senegal.
Other People Are Reading
-
History
-
Senegal was populated by various ethnic groups throughout its history. Some of the tribes in Senegal are the Wolof, Jula and Fulani. Senegalese dance and music are first documented in the 17th century, when written records describe single-headed drums accompanying recreational dance, wrestling and war activities. The drum beats can be heard for miles and were used to communicate between tribes.
Types
-
Sabar is the name of a popular Wolof dance style. Sabar drums play many rhythms, including mbalax, kaolak, thiebou dieun and baaram'baye, which are loosely labeled "sabar." The Mandinka, or Jula, settled Southern Senegal when it was part of the ancient Mali Empire. The Mandinka play Serouba and Bougarabou drums. Rhythms played on these drums include Ekonkon and Lenjin. Other ethnic groups in Senegal, such as the Peul, or Fulani, and Tukular, have dances and rhythms that are specific to their culture.
-
Functions
-
Sabar is a popular dance, performed at weddings, community celebrations or parties. The dance is competitive and creative; during a sabar dance, people form a large circle, while individuals or pairs of dancers go into the center of the circle and show off their best moves. Sabar has gained international fame by performers such as Youssou N'Dour and Doudou N'Diaye Rose. Other traditional dances are performed for ceremonies or celebrations.
Characteristics
-
Sabar dances feature jumps and large leg and arm moves accented with pelvic thrusts. The women's movements are sensual and energetic. Mandinka dance styles reflect the history and connection to the Mali Empire. Serouba and Bougarabou are Jula drums that play distinct rhythms, such as Ekonkon and Lenjin. The dancers bend their torso and mark the rhythm with fast, stomping footwork and outstretched arms. The Fulani, or Peul, are known for their beautiful flute and violin music, but also play rhythms on a buuba drum. Fulani dances accentuate the shoulders.
Contemporary Dance
-
In Senegal, you will find a mix of both old and new dance traditions. People embrace their cultural roots and continue to dance for important occasions as they have done for thousands of years. You will also find that the dances have evolved and adapted to various cultural influences and music styles; many dances are choreographed for large theater audiences, not just in villages. Senegal's rich dance history has also set a strong foundation for its renowned modern dancers.
-
