Somali folk dances

"Primarily, this book intends to give those who are unfamiliar with Somali folk dances, a preliminary over-all view of the dance traditions of Somalia. An attempt is made in this publication to depict the dance traditions of Somalia in broad terms, supplementing the verbal portrayal with illustrations and photographs wherever possible. Far from being scholastic, the approach has been in the nature of an introduction to a subject at once fascinating and is meant for the layman. Being part and parcel of the every day life of the Somali people, folk dances is handed down from generation to generation. Thus, folk dances of Somalia unfold bewildering varieties of styles, rhythms, colors, choreography, costumes, movements and songs. The subject matter has also been restricted to the discussion of items of traditional recreational folk dance which a casual visitor to Somalia is likely to encounter at any normal performance on a modern stage in contemporary Somalia. An attempt has also been made to give an outline of the original sources, mainly recreational, from which such items derive inspiration. Finally, the author's crucial aim is to create an atmosphere of awareness to show that we still have an enduring ancient folk dance and culture. A great book with beautiful illustrations to be read over and over again. Indeed a fascinating and grwat contribution in this new and untapped field"--Page 4 of cover.