Afro-Cuban dances are today an example of the connection between the roots of Africa and Cuba. The dances that accompanied the religious rites of these African cultures are a sign of transculturation and of the heritage of Cuban culture in general.
Afro-Cuban dances reflect the honor of the gods of the Yoruba pantheon, imitating their physical characteristics, their way of moving and their qualities and tastes, all seasoned with a thrilling rhythm of drums and other instruments.
El dance of Eleggua, shows devotion to the saint and imitates his mischievous and cheerful character. Also the protective side of the deity is reflected in the dance.
The dance of the lord of the roads
In the Elegguá dance, the movements resemble clearing and covering the roads in the mountains, aided by a “doodle”, or a stick-shaped branch that is used to separate the herbs.
Eleggua, runs and gets behind the door. He jumps and twists, making childish faces and playing like children.
However, some of his movements can be very erotic, in the facet of a mischievous and mocking god.
The Elegguá dance and Yoruba magic
When Elegguá dance, he will make jokes to the audience and can disappear from sight to appear at the least expected moment. And so is the Orisha who is so associated with luck.
The dancers who dedicate their dance to him imitate him in their dress, with red and black shorts and colors and in their happy and fast movements. The dancers can dance individually or in groups against the hands of the clock.
One of the characteristic steps when performing the Elegguá dance, is to stand on one foot and turn quickly.
And the dance must always be accompanied by a stick or cane, which is used to mime opening a path through dense vegetation.
The Most Powerful Prayer to the Seven African Powers of Santeria
Prayers to the very powerful Orishas translated from Lucumí into Spanish
