The nagila dance is a dance genre that is popular in northern Ghana, particularly among the Kassena and the Frafra. It is a recreational solo dance with a driving rhythm.
A typical feature of the nagila dance is stamping on the ground with the
feet in a specific rhythmic pattern and in interaction with the drums. The
dance is short: the dancer takes centre stage and performs an energetic
dance for about 30 seconds. This is followed by a break during which only
the percussion instruments play. When the dancer is ready again, the drums
play louder and with more precision. The dance can be resumed in this way
some six times by the same dancer, after which a new dancer takes to the
floor.
The dancer bends the upper part of her body forwards at the hips so
that the thighs and back form almost a right angle, bending her knees and
bringing her heels off the ground. She holds her elbows either in front of
her or behind her.
The nagila dance can be performed for entertainment purposes, at
public gatherings of chiefs and during festivals.
© RMCA/Dominik PHYFFEROEN