Performed by the “Berber” tribes is an African dance form known as Ahidous. This “tribal” dance is said to have originated from Morocco located in West Africa. It is said to be performed mainly during festive occasions such as marriages by both men and women. Furthermore, this dance is usually performed in a group which comprise of performers that range from about 20 to about 100. In addition, apart from music this dance style also combines poetry along with a song.
a. History/origin of the Ahidous:
The dance was basically created by the “Berber” tribes belonging to Morocco to celebrate a festive occasions such as a marriage with the use of music, song, poetry, and dance.
b. Costumes used in the Ahidous:
Since this dance form is performed by both males and females the costume worn varies accordingly. They are as follows:
1. For females:
The costume worn includes a colourful dress, a belt worn extremely sensuously around the waist, a scarf, and a headgear.
2. For males:
The costume worn includes a white dress and a white or yellow turban.
c. Music involved in the Ahidous:
The major instrument used in this dance style is a large tambourine, which the performers themselves play while dancing. In addition, “Bendir” i.e. performers clapping their hands also adds to the music used in this dance. Furthermore, poetry and a song are also used in this dance.
d. Training availability and the technique used in the Ahidous:
In terms of technique, this dance involves a group of dancers arranging themselves in a circle standing shoulder-to-shoulder. They then rhythmically sway to the music produced by the tambourine. As for training centres/schools, there are none available throughout the world since this dance is exclusively performed by “Moroccan” tribal communities.