Pre-colonial dances explained.

Explain pre colonial or folk traditional dance

Pre-colonial or folk traditional dances are cultural dances that have been passed down from
generation to generation in many societies across the world. These dances are often
associated with specific events, ceremonies, or celebrations within the community and hold
great cultural and historical significance.

Before the influence of colonization, pre-colonial dances were deeply rooted in local beliefs,
customs, and traditions. They were performed during significant moments such as rites of
passage, harvest festivals, weddings, and funerals.

These dances were often accompanied by live music played on traditional instruments such as
drums, flutes, and stringed instruments. The movements and steps of the dance were usually
inspired by local nature, animals, or daily activities such as farming, hunting, or fishing.

Furthermore, these dances served as a form of communication and expression of cultural

Overall, pre-colonial or folk traditional dances are an important part of many cultures, as they
represent the history, customs, and traditions of a people. Despite the impact of modernization
and globalization, many communities still continue to preserve and perform these dances as a
way of keeping their cultural heritage alive.

Explain atilogwu

Atilogwu is a traditional dance form that originated from the Igbo people of Nigeria, West Africa.
The word "Atilogwu" means "Is this magic?" in Igbo language, and it is often referred to as the
"Acrobatic Dance" due to its energetic and acrobatic movements.

Atilogwu dance is usually performed by a group of dancers, both male and female, dressed in
colorful costumes that are adorned with beads, sequins, and other embellishments. The dance
is accompanied by live music played on traditional instruments such as drums, flutes, and the
gong.

The dance is characterized by its high energy and acrobatic movements, which include
cartwheels, backflips, and somersaults. These movements are performed in unison, with the
dancers often forming different formations and patterns on the dance floor.

Atilogwu dance is often performed during important cultural events such as weddings, festivals,
and other celebrations. It is a symbol of joy, happiness, and unity, and is often used to showcase
the strength and agility of the Igbo people.
In recent years, Atilogwu dance has gained popularity beyond Nigeria, with many African dance
troupes and performers incorporating elements of the dance into their performances.

Ibo dance

Igbo dance is a form of traditional dance that originated from the Igbo people of Nigeria, West
Africa. It is an integral part of Igbo culture and is often performed during various social events,
such as weddings, funerals, festivals, and other celebrations.

Igbo dance is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic movements, often accompanied by
live music played on traditional instruments such as the udu (clay pot), the ogene (metal gong),
and the ekwe (wooden slit drum). The dance movements are often inspired by nature, daily
activities such as farming and hunting, and social issues within the community.

There are various types of Igbo dance, each with its unique style and significance. For instance,
the Agaba dance is a popular dance among the Igbo women, performed during weddings and
other joyous occasions. The Mmanwu dance is performed by masquerades, and it is usually
associated with spiritual and ancestral beliefs.

Igbo dance is not only a form of entertainment but also a means of communication and
expression of cultural identity. It is used to pass on important messages, values, and beliefs of
the Igbo people from one generation to another. Additionally, Igbo dance is a way of social
interaction and bonding among members of the community.

Overall, Igbo dance is a significant part of the Igbo culture and is cherished and preserved by the
Igbo people to this day. It is a beautiful art form that continues to attract people from all over
the world, who are fascinated by its rhythms, movements, and the rich cultural heritage it
represents.

Reasons for folk dance in ancient time

Folk dances have been an important part of human culture for centuries, and they have been
performed for various reasons, including:

A. Celebrations and Festivals: Folk dances were often performed during celebrations and
festivals as a way of honoring important events and milestones in the community. These events
could include harvest festivals, weddings, and religious celebrations.

B. Community Bonding: Folk dances also served as a means of social interaction and bonding
among members of the community. They were a way of bringing people together, promoting
unity, and strengthening relationships.

C. Spiritual and Ritualistic Practices: In some cultures, folk dances were associated with
spiritual and ritualistic practices. They were believed to have mystical powers and were
performed to appease the gods, ancestors, and other spiritual beings.
D. Passing on Cultural Heritage: Folk dances were used as a means of passing on cultural
heritage and traditions from one generation to another. They were an important way of
preserving cultural identity and values, and they played a significant role in the transmission of
cultural knowledge and history.

E. Entertainment: Finally, folk dances were often performed for entertainment purposes. They
were a form of artistic expression and provided an opportunity for people to showcase their
skills and talents in dance and music. They were also a way of providing entertainment and
enjoyment to the community, particularly during leisure time.

Folk dance in Nigeria

Nigeria is a diverse country with many ethnic groups, each with its unique culture and traditions.
Folk dances in Nigeria, therefore, vary depending on the region and ethnic group.

Some popular folk dances in Nigeria include:

I. Bata Dance: This is a traditional dance from the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria. It is
performed by a group of drummers and dancers, and it involves complex drum rhythms and
movements.

Il. Egwu Owerri: This is a cultural dance from the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria. It is
usually performed during festive occasions and involves fast-paced movements and energetic
footwork.

Ill. Yankari Dance: This is a dance from the Tiv people of central Nigeria. It is performed during
important cultural events and involves a lot of jumping, hopping, and spinning movements.

PIV. Kolo Dance: This is a dance from the Hausa-Fulani people of northern Nigeria. It is
performed by a group of women and involves rhythmic clapping and footwork.

V. Bambuka Dance: This is a dance from the Kanuri people of northeastern Nigeria. It involves
the use of swords and shields and is performed by a group of men.

VI. Folk dances in Nigeria are often accompanied by live music played on traditional instruments
such as drums, flutes, and gongs. They are an important part of Nigerian culture and are used to
express joy, celebrate cultural identity, and promote social interaction and bonding among
members of the community.

Equipment use for traditional dance

The equipment used for traditional dance can vary depending on the specific culture and dance
style. Here are some examples of common equipment used in different traditional dance forms:

* Tambourine - used in many cultures for dance and music, particularly in Middle Eastern and
North African dance forms.
* Castanets - small percussion instruments worn on the fingers and clicked together, commonly
used in Spanish flamenco dancing.

* Fans - often used in Chinese and Japanese traditional dances, where they are used for
decorative purposes as well as for creating visual effects and expressing emotions.

* Ribbon sticks - long sticks with ribbons attached to the ends, used in dances from many
cultures including Native American, Chinese, and Russian.

* Drums - used in many African, Caribbean, and Latin American dance styles, where the rhythm
of the drum is a central part of the music and dance.

* Bells and ankle bells - worn on the feet or ankles, used in many Indian, Middle Eastern, and
African dance forms to emphasize the beat and rhythm of the music.

* Swords - used in some Middle Eastern dances such as belly dancing, where they are used for
dramatic effect and to showcase the dancer's skill.

* Clapsticks - used in some Australian Aboriginal dances, where they are used to create
rhythmic accompaniment and to signal changes in the dance.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other types of equipment and instruments
used in traditional dance from all over the world.

Traditional dance costumes

i Yoruba: The Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria have a rich cultural heritage with unique
dance costumes. For example, the Bata dance costume is a colorful two-piece outfit made of
fabric with intricate beadwork and embroidery. It includes a blouse and a skirt with a matching
headscarf. The Gelede dance costume is another notable example, which includes a flowing
wrapper, blouse, and a headpiece made of beads, cowries, and feathers.

ii Igbo: The Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria have a vibrant dance culture. The Ekpiri dance
costume is a colorful two-piece outfit that includes a blouse and a skirt made of brightly colored
fabric with elaborate beading and embroidery. The costume is often paired with a headpiece
made of cowries and beads.

III Hausa: The Hausa people of northern Nigeria have a unique dance costume called the Zuma
dance costume. The costume consists of a flowing, brightly colored dress with a matching
headscarf. The dress is made of a lightweight fabric and is often embellished with intricate
embroidery and beadwork.

iv Edo: The Edo people of southern Nigeria have a rich cultural heritage with unique dance
costumes. The Bini dance costume is a colorful two-piece outfit made of brightly colored fabric
with elaborate beadwork and embroidery. It includes a blouse and a wrapper with a matching
headpiece.