The Bayaya is a mixed and circular dance from the island of Mayotte.[1] The performers form a circle and follow each other,[2] taking steps forward and backward;  the dance is punctuated by the ngôma ensemble (several double-skin drums).[1]  Previously the macheve cowbells that the dancers wore on their feet participated as musical instruments.[1]

Circumstances

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Previously, this dance was practiced during the Msada, a mutual aid, for example during the harvest or the construction of a house.  From now on, it is practiced during festivals or various demonstrations, in particular political.  It is then practiced a little differently since the dancers alternate the circular formation with a row formation when they are on stage in front of the audience.  This dance has become rare[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d Ethno Randrianary culture.gouv.fr [dead link]
  2. ^ "2)Danses traditionnelles - Mayotte". sites.google.com (in French). Retrieved 2020-10-06.