The traditional dance of the Ewe people of the Benin and Togo region is called Agbadja. The dance originally evolved from a war dance and the legend tells a story of the oppressed Ewe people under the cruel rule of Agokoli, a dictator of the city named Notsie. The ruler was so barbarous that the Ewe people planned to escape from the city. At night, they poured water on the city walls made of clay. When the clay softened, they tore the walls down and left the city walking backward. Those backward movements are still incorporated in the Agbadja dance. 

Over time Agbadja has evolved from a war dance to a popular dance for every occasion, from religious ceremonies to celebrations and even funerals. The rhythm is everything in Agbadja and the details of performance are less important than keeping up with the beat. Here, the dance is learned from one generation to another. But as an outsider, the only option to catch up is to take a dance class. The Vodún New Year’s celebration is just around the corner, so we sweat and stomp our clumsy feet in hopes of not looking too foolish when it’s time to celebrate.

Letters from West Africa

Day 11. Dance

The Vodún New Year’s celebration is just around the corner and there are important customs relating to rituals and the ceremonies. To participate in the celebration full-heartedly, one needs to know the traditions and one important part of the fest is rhythmic dancing.

Cheers, Anna