Abigbo
The name of our dance is Abigbo Cultural music
Abigbo started with our mothers and fathers
From our foreparents and now to us
With the stories told about the origin of the dance, I would estimate that it has been in existence for about 400 years
Abigbo dancers are usually invited to perform at ceremonies in and outside Mbaise, Imo state
Such as the US, African countries and other places where Igbo people are resident
We perform this dance during the new yam festival
also easter celebration and fundraising events
This is how it is
It is performed by both men and women
The dance does not have any specific age grade known for its performance
No singular age grade is known for it
Anyone with interest in the dance, Mbaise community or activities of the igbo people is permitted to join.
Abigbo is well known for its dance attire.
The Igbo tradition is visibly shown in the performance of the dance
We use wood lump
We use Omere Ekpe as it is called in igbo language which accompanies the wood lump in directing the steps of the dancers
We use 'ekelebe' as it is called in igbo language
That is the smallest talking drum
We also have the Ogele known as meta gong in english
The Ogele or metal gong supports the background music and makes it audible.
We have the wooden gong known as okwa in igbo language that supports the rhythm of the music
This is to ensure that the dance steps are in tandem with the beatings
There is the Osha or Uyara also known as marakash entices the dancers to move their bodies in an an incredible way.
There is another instrument called bell
These musical instruments are produced in Igbo land
There are those constructed with wood, irons and animal skin.