Why do Jamaicans love to dance so much? Chances are, they will tell you that it’s because there is always a reason for celebration. Even if you have never danced a day in your life, you will find that you just can’t help swaying to the hypnotic rhythm found all over this tropical island! Dance, in general, to the people of Jamaica is just like breathing. It is something that comes natural and simply must be done as often as possible, without thought or hesitation!
Jamaicans dance pretty much everywhere and for every reason. Cultural celebrations, worship, social gatherings, festivals, formal events, holidays, weddings, beach parties and sometimes simply because there is a good beat available. So, don’t be surprised at all if you are casually strolling through Montego Bay’s Craft Market doing a little shopping and dance breaks out because someone bangs a drum and certainly don’t be afraid to join in on the fun! Once there is a little music somewhere, hands start clapping, hips are moving and everybody’s laughing, this is what happiness is all about! This is what a vacation in Jamaica is about!
Although there are social African dances like Etu Quadrille, most are derived from religion such as Myal, Pocomania and Kumina. These particular dances are still preserved and enjoyed by the Maroon communities. Jamaican creole, which you will see a whole lot of, integrates African and European elements together to create something pretty spectacular. A few good examples are Maypole, Jonkonnu, Revival, Bruckin’s, Dinkie and the ever famous Pukkumina.
Of course, when one thinks of Jamaican dance, ragga or dance hall music certainly comes to mind which has also had a strong influence over dance styles today. Ska music created fast dances while rock-steady resulted in slower moves. The combination of all of these diverse dances has made Jamaican dance what it is today.
Theater
In the 1950s, Ivy Baxter, Rex Nettleford and Eddy Thomas joined forces to open Jamaica’s National Dance Theatre Company. This softly transitioned dance from being primarily religious and used for celebrations to being thought of as artistic as well. Of course, Edna Manley had an influence in this as well, being one of the world’s most talented artists. With this eruption of excitement among artists looking for another way to release their creative energy, Edna Manley opened a school of dance to keep the tradition of the island’s cultural and historic dances alive by offering scheduled shows.
Themes for such performances explored various artistic expressions, the interpretation of national issues and many synchronized and well-choreographed formations as well. These ensembles have been awarded local and international acclaim helping to expose the dance forms of the Jamaican people around the world.
Dance Today
Traditional European dances have been Jamaicanised, as locals like to say. They remain the backbone of this island’s culture. Dancing always has been and forever will play a huge role in Jamaican lifestyle. Whether it’s done for entertainment, enjoyment, mourning or art, moving the body as the dance feels is essential to living. To truly experience Jamaica, you must dance with the people!