On Tuesday, Nov. 1, Lancer Productions hosted the Ezibu Muntu Dance and Cultural Foundation in Jarman Auditorium.
The group consists of drummers, dancers and entertainers that present traditional African dances in hopes of educating college students on all things related to African culture. The organization aims to "enrich the diversity of the community and reintroduce basic African concepts of family and community into society by informing and exhibiting."
The evening began with a brief explanation of what they are doing. One of the women began talking about common misconceptions about African culture and Africa in general. She discussed how Africa is a continent and not a country. While most people already knew that, her reasoning for saying that was because so many people tend to view Africa as one continent with many countries with the same culture. She explained how there can be up to 1,200 cultures in one given country. Each nation in Africa consists of separate cultures, languages, religions and even people.
The instruments that were used were also identified and explained. All of the drums had metal armor surrounding them which traditionally was used as defense during battle.
Another point that was emphasized was that the various African dance styles are not just improvisation. They are unique and specially choreographed dance moves that make up these intricate dances. The dances also rely heavily upon spirituality. The dancers with each of their movements open up the space around them in the room in order to let in the spirits of their ancestors help guide them. The entire art of African dance is centered heavily around this reliance on connecting with spirits and loved ones.
All of the dances consisted of music. Music is an essential part of African culture, and when it comes to African dance, the singing voice is paramount. It is what sets the tone for the dance. There are also different kinds of dances for different occasions. There is a dance that is dedicated to women and celebrating what it means to be a woman and everything that comes with it. There is a healing dance, which tries to bring positive energy and improve well-being. There is also a dance that was performed among African tribes before they would go to battle. The dance would be performed by women to honor the men and wish them well. The dance would be performed by the men for them to assert their power and to get them mentally prepared for battle. One of the Ezibu people expressed the civility that once existed during these battles that she wished still existed to this day. She explained how in Africa, when countries would go to battle, they did not need to shed blood to determine who was victorious. Rather, they would declare who won, and then their losses were typically pieces of land.
The Ezibu Muntu Dance and Cultural Foundation's goal is to spread their love of African culture, their roots and to teach people more about African dance and African music. They attempt to break down stereotypes of what people might think African dancing might be. By educating others about culture, they also encourage others to honor the past by seeking out the truth. Their dances represent much more than the dance itself. They represent entire cultures and parts of history that should not be ignored.
