Ubuntu, Indigenous Communities, and Dance Practices in African Cultures

Dance as Cultural Ledger: the Value of Documenting Indigenous African Dances

“…The advent of colonialism and the spread of Christianity brought about major transformations in the cultural fabric of Africa, profoundly influencing the practice and (Mabingo, 2020;Rani, 2018). Indigenous dances, such as the Umxhentso dance in Xhosa culture, on which this study is premised, reflect the community's beliefs, values, and lived experiences.…”

“…While some Christian missionaries and communities incorporated elements of indigenous dances into their worship practices, others viewed these dances as antagonistic to the "true faith" and sought to suppress them (Hanna, 1973). This led to a significant transformation in the practice and perception of indigenous dances (Mabingo, 2020).…”

“…These external influences have gradually eroded the prominence and practice of indigenous dances, relegating them to the periphery of cultural importance (Rani, 2018;Izu and De Villiers, 2021). As a result, contemporary audiences often perceive these dances as antiquated, losing touch with their historical significance and the valuable insights they provide into African heritage ( dances face marginalisation and the risk of fading into obscurity (Mabingo, 2020). This underscores the pressing need to document and re-evaluate these dance forms for cultural preservation and reclamation (Izu and De Villiers 2021;Akas, 2014).…”

“…This re-evaluation and documentation process is about preserving and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of these dances in contemporary society (Bhale, 2014;Akas, 2013). It is a step towards reclaiming and revitalising a significant aspect of cultural heritage that has been marginalised due to historical circumstances (Mabingo, 2020).…”

“…Cheney (1990) posits that facilitating rituals is one of the broadest benefits of indigenous dance in African communities. In this context, dance is not merely a form of entertainment but a symbolic component of the culture, providing a process of understanding and distinction for the people within that society (Mabingo, 2020).…”