NEWSWEEK.COM 47
Maasai Jumping Dance
Kenya
Known as adumu by the Maasai tribe
in Kenya and Tanzania, this jumping
dance is a tradition performed by young
men at a coming-of-age ceremony. The
dance serves as a competition for young
men to showcase their strength and
even attract the attention of potential
brides. It’s said that the one who jumps
the highest will be chosen as chief.
Kabuki
Japan
A classical dance drama
that began in Kyoto
more than 400 years
ago, kabuki incorporates
theatrics and mime
with spectacular
costumes and staging.
But the heart of this
traditional art form is the
dramatic dancing that
tells the story through
stylized movements.
Bhangra
India
This high-energy dance
started as a folk celebration
to rejoice in the harvest
season in Punjab, India.
Following the beat of the
dhol, or the Indian drum,
dancers are dressed in
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Now, the dance has spread
all over the world and
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classes and TV shows such
as America’s Got Talent.
Whirling Dervish
Turkey
Watching the mesmerizing whirling
dervish ceremonies is an iconic part
of Turkish culture. Begun as a form
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this spinning dance known as sema
blurs prayer, dance and trance.
The dervishes are followers of Rumi
and honor him with this practice.
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Dance Around the World
From Brazilian martial-arts dancing to Turkish twirling meditation and Kenyan warriors jumping,
the world moves in mysterious ways. Whether you know the language or not, watching—or better yet
participating if invited—in a traditional dance is a powerful way to experience and connect with another
culture. Take a whirl around the globe to see some of the most iconic dance moves. —Kathleen Rellihan
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