BAM Presents DanceAfrica Mozambique — Preview

WHEN:

May 23–26, 2025

WHERE:

BAM Howard Gilman Opera House
30 Lafayette Ave.
Brooklyn

TICKETS:

$25+

For more information and tickets visit the BAM website.

A spokesperson describes the event as follows:

“...Mozambique: Movement! Magic! Manifestation! will showcase traditional Mozambican dance forms that reflect the country’s history, spirituality, and resilience. Tufu is a rhythmic dance often performed by women, featuring fluid movements and percussive clapping that emphasize grace and unity. Xigubo, a warrior’s dance, is deeply rooted in Mozambique’s legacy of resistance, and historically performed by fighters preparing for battle. Ngalanga is a celebratory dance traditionally showcased at festivals and gatherings, embodying joy and communal spirit.
The program also includes Mapiko and Nhau, dances that highlight Mozambique’s diverse traditions—from the dramatic storytelling of masked performances to the powerful rhythms of drumming and movement. Across generations, these dances have served as more than performance; they are an embodiment of history, identity, and cultural preservation.

Mozambique: A Story of Resistance and Cultural Expression On June 25, 1975, Mozambique gained independence through organized resistance against centuries of Portuguese colonial rule, becoming one of the last continental African nations to reclaim its sovereignty. As the country approaches the 50th anniversary of this historic moment, DanceAfrica 2025 offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the power of cultural expression in the pursuit of liberation. That victory ignited a renewed focus on self-determination, cultural preservation, and artistic expression.
A defining symbol of Mozambican cultural identity is the Capulana, a textile used in daily life and ceremonial practices. The fabric represents creativity, heritage, and resilience, worn as an expression of identity and tradition. In Mozambique, dance and music are central to cultural continuity—manifestations of history, memory, and transformation..."

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