Gombey Dancers, Hamilton, Bermuda July 6, 2011

HAMILTON, BERMUDA Wednesday, July 6, 2011 ...

"Gombey dance is one of the rich traditions that people of Bermuda always take pride in. The word Gombey defines both an African drum and rhythm. The drum is made of sheep skin of Bantu origin.

"Gombey dance is one of Bermuda's oldest dance traditions. In Gombey dance , a troupe of highly colorful dancers along with a band of musicians assemble on the streets of Bermuda during holidays mainly at the Christmas time to demonstrate their skills and culture.

"Gombey dance demonstrates rhythm. The dance also unleashes occasional glimpses of acrobatic leaps, turns, splits high kicks and deep knee bends.

"The analogy of Gombey dance can be drawn with that of a West African tribal dance. The dance represents a plethora of cultures and unleashes cultural nicety to the hilt. Gombey dance in Bermuda first came into its own during 17 th century, when slaves from Africa, North America and the Caribbean were brought to Bermuda and shared a helping hand in close cooperation with other brethren of the same status to mold it into what it is today.

"Gombey dancers are those individuals who follow the trail of this heritage pursued by their forefathers. Gombey dance is a custom that is handed down to generations. The generations, in turn , simulate those minute details viz. Technique and musical scores while in action." - From http://www.mapsofworld.com/bermuda/bermuda-culture/gombey-dance.html

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• drums
• gombey
• hamilton
• bermuda