 
The Simba (Zimba) is a masked dance of the Wolof
tribe. They are costumed entertainers and dancers, who can often been
seen making ferocious performances both at festivals and programs
organized on the streets of residential areas. It costs a few dalasi
to watch; many children try to sneak a peak, only to be chased away
with the threat of being beaten by the Simba if caught. The Simba
often picks audience members to dance, and if he his not pleased by
their performance, he requires compensation in the form of dalasi.
Simbas are good at evoking fear in their audiences, both paying and
especially non-paying—indeed, “Zimba” means “lion dancer” in Wolof.
They are dressed in a cow hair mask, black and yellow paint on
their faces and a costume composed of different animal furs,
fabrics and shells.
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