How to Dance During Kwanzaa
If you're planning a large Kwanzaa celebration, chances are music, performances and dance will be an important part of it. Whether you're celebrating at home or attending a public service, you may be invited to the dancing floor to express yourself. Instead of worrying about how you will look, be prepared by following a few simple steps.
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Instructions
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Learn to Dance for Kwanzaa
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Take an introductory workshop to learn the steps of traditional West African dance. Many dance studios and learning annexes, especially as Kwanzaa draws near, offer the chance to take a practical workshop that lasts either a few hours or a couple of days and covers all the basic steps.
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Look for classes featuring traditional dances from the Ivory Coast, Mali, Ghana and Senegal, as these are the ones who feature the most classical steps. Or, look for workshops teaching specific types of dance, such as Anyako Atsia (a social dance), Tokoe (a girl's only dance) and Ahazevu Vulolo (slow social dancing).
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Practice dancing wearing the type of clothes you plan on using at the party. Dancing in jeans is not the same as dancing while wearing large dresses and hats. If you plan on dressing in special costumes for the dances, try them on beforehand. Laces, raffia and bells will change the way you move and sound.
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Express yourself. Let your body feel the music, without worrying too much about how you look. Music during Kwanzaa is used as a way of expressing yourself, even if you don't know the right steps to go with it.
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Play some drumming music during Kwanzaa and simply follow the rhythm. Drumming is a great sound for those who can't dance, since the constant beating makes it easier to follow and relax your body.
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Get the kids involved. Take them to a dance workshop or to a performance so they understand the importance of dancing during Kwanzaa. Then encourage them to dance and express themselves.
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Tips & Warnings
There are DVDs on traditional African dances. If you want to take a look at the typical movements done during a dance, get a DVD in advance to watch the dancers.
You can also attend a live performance to see firsthand how the dancers interact with the music. Keep in mind, though, that you will be watching professionals at play, so you can't try and compete when the time comes to take to the dance floor.
