SYMBOLS AS VECTORS OF MEANING IN DANCE COMMUNICATION: A STUDY OF EGWUIKE DANCE

Abstract

Symbols are natural vectors that instigate meaning and enhance communication in Dance. Hence, Dance passes on information, ideas and feelings through the effective use of both the verbal and nonverbal symbols. However, this study looks at the problem of misinterpretation of symbols inherent in indigenous dance in Nigeria especially by non-dance scholars as mere enhancing tool used only during performance. Consequently, this study aims at examining Egwuike war dance of Ishiuzo Egbu in Owerri North to underline the influence of symbols as vectors of meaning. The key objectives are to explore the different symbols of communication implored by the choreographers of this dance to communicate relevant cultural issues in the community and to underscore the importance of symbols used in the dance as purveyors of meaning and value to the dancers and the society. The study uses a qualitative research method to address the case study, and relevant data were interpreted and discussed using Content Analysis. More so, the study is based on George Herbert Mead’s Symbolic Interactionism. Consequently, the study reveals that Egwuike war dance communicates relevant information through the use of unique cultural symbols. Therefore, the study concludes that interpreting these unique cultural symbols helps to unearth and understand the underlying meanings inherent in the dance. Finally, the study strongly recommends that dance scholar should give detailed analysis more in the area of cultural symbols used in traditional dances because they significant vectors and carriers of cultural identity.