Some people usually say
that dance is the life of the African.
Most Africans believe that dance is a way of thinking, communicating,
and generally a way of living. Dancing takes place at naming ceremonies, weddings, funerals,
durbars, festivals and parties.
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| Two women dancing Adowa |
One of the traditional dances in Ghana is the ADOWA dance. Infact it is my favourite dance. I love to watch
this dance a lot. The Adowa dance is the most widespread and frequently performed dance of the Akan speaking people of Ghana. This
unique dance is usually danced by men, women and even children.
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| A man and a woman gracefully performing the Adowa dance |
The dance is unique
because it most often uses a symbolic language. The way and manner in which the
dancers of Adowa move their hands and legs always tells a story. The Adowa
dance is most often performed at state functions. The dance is usually led by a female who is referred to as Adowahemma. The dancers of Adowa
are most often seen in nicely woven kente accompanied with gold ornaments such
as anklets and golden rings and earrings.
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| A girl dancing Adowa |
On other occasions, the dancers of Adowa are seen in simple cloths. The men usually have the cloth wrapped around
their waist. It is so beautiful to
watch this dance. The dancers are usually seen smiling throughout the dance.
What interests me most is the way and manner in which the drummers happily play
their drums to produce good music. The gong is most often played as well.
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| Ghana's former President J.A Kuffour dancing Adowa with a woman |
Whenever you visit
Ghana, just tell any one you want to see the Adowa dance. If you are not able
to attend an occasion to see it, the person can just give you a few steps.
Enjoy this wonderful
dance in the links below…
