Global African Warrior, Ceremonial & Urban
Dance traditions from across Africa, including warrior dances, ceremonial traditions, and contemporary urban forms from South Africa, West Africa, and East Africa.
22 dance styles in this genre
Dance Styles
Indlamu
Warrior dance with vigorous high kicks and stomping; performed at weddings, coronations, and pre-battle preparation.
Ingoma
Energetic dance with frantic movements, chanting, and high kicks; performed during weddings and coming-of-age ceremonies.
Umxhentso
Group dance performed during weddings and initiations; features coordinated movements to traditional music.
Umteyo
Male youth dance with rapid torso undulation movements.
Mokhibo
Graceful women's kneeling dance with coordinated arm and torso movements.
Mohobelo
Vigorous male dance featuring energetic leg kicks, chants, and rhythmic clapping.
Pantsula
Energetic contemporary urban dance with intricate footwork and hip movements.
Gumboot Dance
percussive dance performed by striking rubber boots and body; created by migrant miners.
Bata
Sacred warrior dance performed to Bata drum rhythms; associated with Sango (Thunder God); athletic and acrobatic.
Gese
Religious dance grounded in complex drum rhythms requiring training; represents holistic view of life.
Egungun
Masquerade dance with elaborate masks and costumes representing ancestral spirits; vibrant colors and flowing fabrics.
Atilogwu
Spirited youth dance with vigorous body movements and acrobatics; name means 'has magic' (supernatural ability).
Ikpirikpi-ogu (War Dance)
War dance performed to welcome returning warriors; expresses community solidarity and warrior recognition.
Koroso
Vigorous dance with leg movements and tied rattles; performed at festivals and celebrations.
Shadi
Dance performed during Hausa weddings and celebratory events.
Adowa
Graceful funeral dance expressing respect for the deceased; performed at mourning celebrations.
Agbadza
Festival and celebration dance of the Ewe people.
Azonto
Contemporary social dance performed at celebrations.
Kpanlogo
Free-flowing highlife dance of Ga people performed to conga-like drums.
Adumu
Maasai warrior dance featuring full-body vertical leaps with straight legs while maintaining erect upper body.
Assiko
Social dance form of Cameroon.
Kuduro
Contemporary African urban dance style.