Performed mainly during “marriages or birthdays” on a full moon night is a dance form known as Sambai. This “fertility dance” is said to have originated in Belize, and is essentially characterized by solo performances. In addition, this dance style can be performed by both males and females although, originally only males were permitted to dance. Furthermore, the origin of this dance is said to be deeply embedded in African culture.
a. History/origin of Sambai:
Like several Latin American countries, Belize (located in Central America) experienced a sudden influx of a large number of slaves from Africa around the 15th century. Thus, these African slaves introduced this dance form which was referred to as “Sambai”. In addition, this dance was created to essentially celebrate the harvest period of crops which was linked directly to the cycle of the full moon. However, nowadays this dance is performed mainly to celebrate auspicious social events such as marriages and birthdays, and not the harvest season of crops.
b. Costumes worn in the Sambai:
Since the dance is performed both by males and females the costume worn varies accordingly, and they are as follows:
1. For females:
The costume worn includes a white sleeveless top, a colourful long skirt, and a colourful headgear.
2. For males:
The costume worn includes a colourful shirt, a white pajama-like trouser, and a hat.
c. Music involved in the Sambai:
The musical instrument mainly used in this dance style is the drum. In addition, the performers also use the call, “Aanti Kala Kala Kalala Sohnting So” to which the audience watching the performance responds by stating “Aanti Noh Badi Mi”.
d. Training availability and technique involved in the Sambai:
In this dance style, the performers initially arrange themselves in a circle around a bonfire on a full moon night. The dancers then dance to the beats produced by the drum. In addition, when a performer completes dancing in the circle he/she makes an exit from the circle and selects the next dancer to take his/her place. As for training centres/schools there are none available around the globe since, this “fertility” dance is mainly performed in Belize, and hence is not very popular around the world.