Classes & Camps
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The African tradition is to have dances designated for each
specific age group. The Zulu’s are no exception. In the classes taught
by Umdabu, men will learn warrior dances while boys will learn coming of
age dances. Likewise, girls both young and old will learn their coming of
age dance, while women married and unmarried will learn dances made specifically
for them. There are no age constraints for the Zulu’s, so the dances
made for the male and female elders will also be taught. Dance is vital
to the African culture and is said to be a part of South Africa’s national
character.
African Drum Call and Solo Dance
The sound of the drum was a vital form of communication
in South Africa, as well as in other parts of the Africa continent. The
drums were able to relay quick, loud, and clear messages to neighboring
villages.
Hunters Dance (Umkhomiza)
During this dance, warriors show off their hunting skills and imitate the animals
they hunt. This dance is expressive, and is used to tell stories.
Bayede(Song and Dance)
Bayede is a greeting of respect strictly used by the members of the Zulu Royal
Karaal or Zulu kingdom. Bayede is also a popular song and dance used by
Zulu warriors to show off their fighting skills.
Hlanganani (Ceremonial Dance)
Hlanganani is a dance done during times of great celebration,
such as a chief’s coronation or a baby naming ceremony.
Summer Camps
During the summer camps children learn a traditional and township dance,
South African songs, greetings and every day words in one of the many South
African languages. Because of funding provided by The Jefferson
County Community Arts Fund, Umdabu now is able to teach children
drumming. Aside from the physical fitness benefits of dancing, the children
are able to master difficult routines and a challenging language. This
builds self-esteem and character.
Workshops & Residencies
Presentations:
--The Umdabu Dance Company offers a 90 min presentation and a 45 min
lecture/demonstration for colleges, universities, and performing art
centers. $3,700-$4,300 plus accommodations and travel.
--Umdabu offers a 45 min presentations for festivals and outdoor events
for colleges and universities. $3,200 plus accommodations and travel.
--Umdabu offers lecture /demonstrations for elementary, middle, and
high schools. $2,500- $3,000 plus accommodations
and travel
--For smaller events and organizations Umdabu Dance Company is willing
to accommodate to specific needs.
Workshops:
Umdabu also, offers workshops and dance classes for intermediate and
advance students. Prices vary
Residency: (Available fall 2008) Accepting
advance books now.
Artistic Fee: One week residency and performance $15,000
plus accommodations and per diem for a company of eleven. (6 double
rooms) $17,000 includes out reach activities.
In many Africa countries, there are dances for each
age group. The Zulus are no exception. Men will learn
true warrior dances and boys will learn coming of age dances. There
are dances for small girls and older girls that are coming of age. There
are dances for unmarried women and dances for married women. Their
and even dances for male and female elders.
It is said that dance is part of South Africa’s national character.
