chimaera

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PERFORMANCE

The dance is characterised by movements not found in everyday life.

The dance formations consist of straight and curved rows. The formations change throughout the dance.

There is usually a dominant drummer, male dancer and female dancer. They are selected according to their ability. The leader of the drum ensemble is responsible for the synchronisation of dancers and music.

Dance movements are gender specific. The women dance in a slower and more sedate manner than the men. The male movements are typically more aggressive.

The dancers remain with members of their own gender, rows usually alternate between male and female.

The dance movements are sexually explicit. This explicitness is not tolerated in any other circumstances.

In rehearsal, the most intense practise is reserved for the "dance proper". The entrance/exit sections seldom require rehearsal.

The audience is expected to respond in a loud and supportive manner, calling the names of individual dancers, and placing money either in bowls/boxes or directly onto the dancers themselves.