In the lively heart of Chicago, my mother and I recently had the privilege of witnessing the American Dancing Bodies Symposium MO(VE)MENT Performance Showcase at the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago. The extraordinary performances by Ayodele Drum & Dance, BraveSoul Movement, The Joffrey Ballet Contemporary Trainee Program, and Mordine & Company Legacy Project showcased Chicago’s dance diversity, honoring its heritage and fostering connections in celebration of the Dance Center’s 50th season. My mother and I were absolutely captivated by all the different dance styles that were embodied one after another, and it was an absolute treat getting to see dance pieces ranging from Ballet to West African, all in one showcase, as it is something that is rare to come across. The piece that stood out to us the most was no doubt the performance by Ayodele Drum & Dance, an all women-ensemble dedicated to nurturing a sense of community and empowerment through the study and performance of diasporic African drum and dance. The West African piece left a profound impact on me and my mother, especially as it was her first exposure to this captivating art form and culture.
As we settled into our seats in the theater, the atmosphere was charged with energy even before the performance began, and the anticipation in the air was palpable. When Ayodele Drum & Dance Company took center stage towards the end of the showcase, the whole theater was alive with the pulsating rhythms of West Africa. Led by the charismatic T. Ayo Alston (AKA Momma Ayo), who also happens to be my West African dance technique teacher at Columbia, this performance was a mesmerizing spectacle that left an indelible mark on the soul and an unforgettable memory in the mind.
Notable Elements: Traditional Attire and the Resounding Drums
The dancers and drummers adorned themselves in traditional West African attire, embodying the essence of the culture. Dancers and drummers wore a vivid tapestry of different colors, patterns, intricate beadwork, and fringed lapas (skirts) and shokotos (pants) that instantly transported the audience, each outfit telling a story of heritage and history. The combination of the dancers’ movements and their attire created a visual feast that enriched the overall experience.
The central part of their performance lay in the resounding beats of the drums. The rhythm was not just an accompaniment; it was a living force that drove the dancers’ movements and connected the audience to a West African heartbeat. The drummers skillfully played on the d’jembe, sangba, dundunba, and kenkeni drums (all a part of the d’jembe orchestra), creating a mesmerizing sound that resonated throughout the theater.
The Movements: A Language of Tradition and Expression
The performance commenced with a hypnotic array of movements that were both compelling and evocative. The dancers' every step was imbued with energy and purpose, each movement speaking a language deeply rooted in tradition. We saw a ton of polyrhythmic movements, with the stomping of feet, hip isolations, upper body moments, percussions, and a strong emphasis on bent knees and low center of gravity. In my Introduction to Dance Studies class, Momma Ayo came in as a guest one day to talk about how the movements we see in West African dance reflect the historical experiences that African people faced, specifically the plié West African dancers are always in while moving; this technique pays homage to the enslaved African people who had to be outside for hours on end, bending their knees while they carried out agricultural work. It was a piece of knowledge that really resonated with me.
West African dance is not merely an art form; it is a way of preserving the history and customs of diverse ethnic groups in Africa. The spirited leaps and rhythmic stomps celebrated the joy of community, life, and connection, while also conveying themes of resilience. These experiences, passed down through generations, were now being shared with a new audience, bridging people who come from all different cultures. As I watched the performers, I felt like I was on that stage with them. I felt connected to them in some way. Their energy was contagious, and their gestures and upbeat facial expressions were so engaging.
The Feelings Evoked: A Journey of Emotions
Watching the Ayodele Drum & Dance company’s performance was a rollercoaster of emotions. At times, I was swept away by the sheer vivacity of their movements, feeling an uncontainable joy within. The infectious energy in the theater was certainly clear; the audience was clapping in harmony with the rhythm and cheering, and my mom was getting so into it, that her Apple Watch asked her if she wanted to record an elliptical workout! The performance was really a communal celebration and a reminder of how universal dance and music is, and how important it is for human connection. With the knowledge of the devastating history of enslaved African people, seeing the dancers’ movements also made me feel deep empathy.
Historical Context: The Roots of West African Dance
I think to truly appreciate the significance of any cultural performance, it is essential to delve into the historical context of the dance. West Africa, a region known for its cultural diversity, is a wellspring of ancient traditions and customs. Dance, in particular, has played a pivotal role in the social, spiritual, and cultural life of the communities in this region.
West African dance has its roots in community activities, religious ceremonies, and rites of passage. It serves as a form of communication, a way to celebrate life's joys and navigate its challenges. The dances are often tied to nature, reflecting the agricultural and environmental rhythms of the region. Over centuries, these dances have evolved, blending the influences of various ethnic groups, creating a vibrant array of movement and music.
For centuries, West African dance was passed down through oral traditions, making it a living repository of history, spirituality, and cultural identity. It is an accumulation of knowledge that carries the stories of the past into the present, connecting ancestors, descendants, and strengthening the sense of belonging.
Importance for Dancers: The Ayodele Experience
As a dancer myself, witnessing Ayodele Drum & Dance’s performance really reinforced the importance of understanding the cultural and historical context of the dances I perform. West African dance is more than just a series of steps; it's a means for preserving the traditions of a people, for conveying their stories and emotions.
By seeing and experiencing this performance, not only myself, but my mother gained a deeper appreciation for the diverse world of West African dance. It reminded me that dance is not just about individual expression, but a medium through which we can connect with the past, express collective identity, and celebrate diversity, which is a concept that is important to acknowledge even for people who aren’t dancers or in the dance scene. The all-women aspect of the company was a powerful testament to the empowerment of women in a traditionally male-dominated domain, adding another layer of inspiration to me, who identifies as a girl.
The night when this showcase took place will be an unforgettable experience, and I am ecstatic that my mother and I got to experience a myriad of beautiful dance styles. It was an evening of pure joy and deep appreciation for Ayodele Drum & Dance who personified “Ayodele,” which is the Yoruba word meaning joy in the home.
