Maasai Music

Blog 188

The Maasai tribe, renowned for their rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and distinctive way of life, also boasts a captivating musical tradition deeply ingrained in their daily rituals and ceremonies. Originating from the East African region, primarily Kenya and Tanzania, the Maasai people have nurtured a musical legacy that reflects their connection to nature, their spirituality, and their communal identity.

Vocals play a crucial role in Maasai music, with singing being an integral part of everyday life. Maasai songs are sung in a call-and-response style, with one person leading the melody and others joining in to create rich harmonies. These songs are used to tell stories, pass down traditions, and express emotions ranging from joy and celebration to sorrow and lamentation.

In addition to their ceremonial music, the Maasai also have a tradition of “ngoma” or dance. Maasai dances are characterized by their energetic movements, intricate footwork, and colorful attire. Dancers often wear elaborate beaded jewelry and garments adorned with traditional patterns and symbols that reflect their cultural identity.

Maasai music and dance are not just forms of entertainment but are deeply intertwined with the social, spiritual, and cultural fabric of Maasai society. They are used to mark significant milestones such as births, weddings, and rites of passage, as well as to communicate with the spirit world and honor their ancestors.

Our guest blog post writer:                                                                                         Bibin Ezhuplackal is a writer and priest from Kerala, India. He is the founder of an online page called “kadalaass.” He has written a book and movie reviews for several periodicals. He spent two years (2020-22) in Tanzania doing pastoral outreach. He had worked with the Maasai tribe in Kilimanjaro. Now he is pursuing M.A. in Cinema and Television.

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Maasai Music and Dance

Blog 183

When the Maasai people sing or dance, they don’t use any instruments. With the exception of some tracks that feature big horns, all of their music is vocal. Their songs have a chorus of singers rendering rhythms while the melody is sung by the olaranyani, or song leader. Usually, the person with the best voice for that song is the olaranyani. When olaranyani begins to sing a line or a song’s title (namba), the entire group applauds with a single, unanimity call. While the Masai jump and dance, the beads that the men and women wear also produce a jingling sound. Ladies sing tunes, recite lullabies, and sing praises to their sons.

The rainy season is when people sing and dance the most, and it’s also a good time to commemorate life milestones like marriage and circumcision. This involves flirting and usually happens around the manyattas.

While there are many variations among Maasai dances, most share certain characteristics. Singers usually form a line and each member jumps as high as they can at a time. The warriors can dance for hours on end, and they all try to dance for as long as they can. Maasai dance is fun since it’s very easygoing. Some dancers focus intently on the singing, dancing, and music, while others only chuckle. A few warriors may stop dancing in the middle to chat with their friends.

Photos courtesy of Bibin Ezhuplackal

Our guest blog post writer:

Bibin Ezhuplackal is a writer and priest from Kerala, India. He is the founder of an online page called “kadalaass.” He has written a book and movie reviews for several periodicals. He spent two years (2020-22) in Tanzania doing pastoral outreach. He had worked with the Maasai tribe in Kilimanjaro. Now he is pursuing M.A. in Cinema and Television.

The Maasai Community Performing Arts

Blog 181

The Maasai tribe of East Africa boasts a rich tradition of performing arts deeply intertwined with their cultural identity and daily life. Dance holds a central place in their rituals, celebrations, and rites of passage. Maasai dances are characterized by rhythmic movements, vigorous jumps, and intricate footwork, often accompanied by chanting and the rhythmic beat of drums made from animal skins. Warriors adorned in traditional attire, beaded jewelry, and intricate headdresses perform mesmerizing dances that showcase their agility, strength, and unity as a community.

The dances of the Maasai often tell stories of their history, legends, and values, preserving their heritage through oral tradition and movement. Each dance holds symbolic significance, representing aspects of their nomadic lifestyle, spiritual beliefs, or connections to nature and animals.

Additionally, the Maasai are renowned for their vocal music, consisting of harmonious melodies and call-and-response patterns. Singing is a communal activity, with men, women, and children joining together in melodic chants during various ceremonies and gatherings.

Overall, Maasai performing arts serve as a vibrant expression of their cultural pride, solidarity, and resilience, embodying the spirit of a people deeply rooted in tradition yet adaptable to change.

Intercultural Theatre: Capoeira

Blog 173

Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art, skillfully fuses dance, acrobatics, music, and ritualistic movements. Its inception dates back to the 16th century, emerging amongst enslaved Africans in Brazil as a means of self-defense and cultural expression, deeply rooted in the African diaspora.

At the core of capoeira is a rhythmic interchange between practitioners, termed “capoeiristas,” engaging in a dance-like exchange within a circular space known as a “roda.” Movements within this practice involve fluid kicks, sweeps, and acrobatics, resulting in a visually captivating and agile performance. The distinctive element of capoeira lies in its integration of music, produced by traditional instruments such as the berimbau, atabaque, and pandeiro. This musical component not only dictates the game’s tempo but also communicates the participants’ energy and spirit.

Capoeira transcends mere physical exercise; it encapsulates a diverse cultural legacy, fostering community and camaraderie. The philosophy of capoeira promotes values like respect, discipline, and mutual understanding, underscoring the significance of collaboration over competition. Practitioners not only enhance their physical abilities but also develop a profound appreciation for Brazilian history and African customs.

Heritage and Intercultural Collaborations

ASF founders Gianni and JyO share in this podcast about their heritage and how that influences them to explore the various Intercultural theatre forms.

We invite you to be part of this journey as a performing artist to share your work and aspirations.

Heritage and Intercultural Collaborations:

Blog 160

As co-founders of ASF with Kerala heritage, both JyO and I, Gianni, found ourselves deeply engaged in our Harvest festival, Onam, which typically falls towards the end of August. We deeply appreciate our connection to our heritage as it not only defines our identity but also keeps us firmly grounded. This experience ignited a discussion on ASF’s vision for Intercultural theatre. We must acknowledge that our genuine appreciation for our own cultural roots serves as an inspiring starting point to explore diverse intercultural traditions.

Our vision revolves around the exploration of traditional performances, beginning within India and eventually extending to neighboring South-East Asian countries that share Indian cultural origins but have evolved into unique local expressions. As we embark on this journey in the coming year, we extend an invitation to you to join us in listening to our podcast where we share our reflections and the inspiration we draw from our heritage and the world of Intercultural Theatre.

Intercultural Theatre : Commedia dell’arte (cont’d)

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It’s Theatrical style and enduring appeal :

Central to commedia dell’arte is its hallmark improvisation, wherein actors entwine their enactments with a broad scenario outline. They adapt their movements and dialogues based on audience responses and interactions. This fluid technique necessitates exceptional physicality, impeccable timing, and a profound comprehension of character dynamics. Through intricate physical gestures, animated slapstick, and clever wordplay, actors engage in an enchanting choreography of humour that overcomes linguistic and cultural barriers.

Its significance in the world of theatre and entertainment :

The influence of commedia dell’arte stretches far beyond its historical genesis. It has etched an everlasting impression on contemporary comedic and theatrical traditions, shaping the progression of physical humour, masked theatrics, and character-driven narratives. Its legacy endures in modern entertainment, embodying the timeless potency of laughter and the limitless innovation of human imagination.

The colourful and iconic characters:

Harlequin, a vibrant trickster in patchwork attire, dazzles with acrobatics, his mischievous spirit igniting chaos and laughter. Pantalone, the wealthy merchant draped in opulence, hatches cunning plots that often backfire, portraying the folly of greed. Columbina, the winsome maid in her elegant simplicity, steers the narratives with wit, juggling admirers and adding a touch of cunning charm. Harlequin’s nimble escapades evade Pantalone’s clutches in an uproarious scene, guided by Columbina’s quick thinking.

Intercultural Theatre: Commedia dell’arte

Blog 157

The universal appeal of humour transcends time and language barriers. Commedia dell’arte exemplifies this magnificently as a vibrant and impactful form of Italian theatrical entertainment. Emergent during the 16th century, it remains a captivating embodiment of impromptu creativity and an enduring comedic spirit. Originating in the lively streets of Renaissance Italy, this genre is marked by its distinct use of stock characters, lively physical performances, and hilarious wit.

At its heart, commedia dell’arte is a dynamic fusion of preplanned scenarios and spontaneous interactions. The actors, often known as “players,” depict recurring classic personas, each adorned with amplified traits and recognizable masks. Among them are the clever Harlequin, the boastful Captain, and the enamored Columbina. These characters stand as timeless channels for satire and social commentary, granting artists the means to reflect on societal norms and human oddities through exaggerated portrayals.

Share stories or anecdotes about famous actors, writers, or directors who were inspired by or involved in commedia dell’arte. This can make the topic feel more relatable and show its enduring influence.

Renowned British actor Rowan Atkinson, celebrated for his beloved character Mr. Bean, found creative resonance in commedia dell’arte’s physical humor and expressive actions. Likewise, Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini seamlessly integrated commedia dell’arte elements, infusing his creations with its lively essence. Playwright Carlo Goldoni, a revered figure, transformed the genre by crafting comedies with distinct characters, leaving an enduring mark. These notable figures illuminate the enduring impact of commedia dell’arte on contemporary comedy and theater, a testament to its timeless influence.

Highlight the colorful and iconic characters like Harlequin, Pantalone, and Columbina. Describe their distinctive traits, costumes, and roles within the performances. Use vivid anecdotes to make these characters come alive.

Kabuki

Blog 143

Kabuki is a traditional Japanese theatre form that originated in the Edo period of the 17th century. Kabuki theatre is inscribed on the representative list of the  Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2008.

It was founded by a female performer named Izumo no Okuni and mainly performed by women. However with time due to moral degradation of the performers, the government of that time banned women from performing it. This tradition is maintained to this day. 

Kabuki storylines explore the depths of human emotions, societal conflicts, and personal journeys. The stories may revolve around legendary samurais, epic romances, quests for vengeance, encounters with supernatural forces, or the clash between tradition and modernity. Kabuki in Japan was performed in full-day programmes, with one play comprising a number of acts spanning the entire day. The full day performance structure was drawn mainly from Bunraku and Noh plays.

Some of the Major Character role types include the Onnagata, the female role specialised by male actors, Aragoto,  the rough style and the Wagoto, the Soft style.

The main attraction of the Kabuki stage  is a hanamichi (footbridge) which extends into  the audience. Some other specialities of a Kabuki stage are Keren, stage tricks such as revolving stage, trapdoors which helps the actors to appear and disappear in an instant to enhance the dramatic impact.

The concept of Jo- ha- kyu which is explained in detail in the  book ‘The Invisible Actor’ by Yoshi Oida. In short, it is a pacing concept in theatre in which the action of a play should start slow, speed up, and end quickly. 

The concept of Jo- ha- kyu was elaborated by Noh playwright Zeami, that is not only the actions of the actors, but also the structure of the play. It is also applicable to the structure of scenes and plays within a day-long programme.

In our next blog this week, we shall be touching on the techniques employed by the Kabuki performance. 

References :

https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/kabuki-theatre-00163

Kabuki Categories|Guide to Kabuki

Intercultural Theatre : Chhau (cont’d)

Blog 134

Understanding the Relevance Of This Art Form in Today’s World

Chhau dance is an important part of the cultural heritage of eastern India, by keeping the tradition alive, Chhau helps to preserve the cultural heritage of the area and pass it down to future generations.

By promoting Chhau dance, local communities can generate revenue through tourism and create economic opportunities.

Chhau dance is a distinctive art form that showcases the diversity of Indian culture and promotes cultural exchange between different communities. It promotes social cohesion by bringing together people from different communities, castes, and religions. 

Chhau dance provides a platform for creative expression and artistic innovation. It allows for creative interpretation and experimentation, enabling artists to push the boundaries of the art form and create new works that reflect contemporary issues and concerns.

Reference:

http://www.mayurbhanjchhau.org/