THE EFFECTS OF SOUND AND DARKNESS: PECULIAR ELEMENTS IN THE IGBO NIGHT MASK TRADITION

Abstract

This paper explores the interesting ramifications of the Igbo masquerade and masking tradition (mmonwu) as an age-old institution that complements, guides, accompanies, and represents as a microcosm, the macrocosmic space of the Igbo nation and psyche. It goes further into the more reclusive night mask (mmonwu abani) aspect of the institution by relying on the qualitative approach and through interviews, observation and participant observation, brings out the crucial role of certain elements in its actualisation and practice. Thus, the elements of sound and darkness are identified, described and explored as pivotal indices in this peculiar tradition of the night time bereft of the costume covering of disguise and aesthetics – the mask – which is indispensable in its daytime counterpart in the Igbo masquerade culture.