Information:
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 mask often picks audience members to this
unique African 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.
The West African mask dancers 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. |
