Cameroon

ASSIKO DANCE- CAMEROON

Performed mainly by an African tribal community called “Bassa” is a dance style known as Assiko. This “tribal” dance is said to have originated from the South of Cameroon. In addition, this dance style derives its name from two words “Assi” meaning earth or ground and “Ko” meaning foot. Furthermore, this dance involves the use of pronounced hip movements.

a. History/origin of the Assiko:

This dance is supposed to have been developed in Cameroon by a tribe known as Bassa. In addition, it was around the year 1920 that this dance style eventually gained popularity not only in Cameroon itself but also in West Africa as well.

b. Costumes used in the Assiko:

The costume worn by the performers (both male and female) in this dance include a white T-shirt, and a colourful skirt.

c. Music involved in the Assiko:

The musical instruments used in this dance include a guitar, and percussion instruments such as the double bass and drums. In addition, metal knives, forks, and empty bottles can also be used as percussion aides in this dance style.

d. Training availability and technique involved in the Assiko:

In terms of technique, this dance basically involves quick feet movements and pronounced and vigorous hip movements. As for training centres/schools, there are none available around the world since this rare dance is mainly performed in Cameroon by a tribal community known as “Bassa”.

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