CHILDREN
SCHOOL PROGRAM
Residencies, Workshops and Assemblies for Elementary & Secondary Schools presented by Maobong Oku
Throughout the villages of Africa children grew up surrounded by music, dance and ceremonies. No stage of life is without performances of any sorts. On some occasions, it is the coming together of all the generations and at other times children have an opportunity to be the spotlight of the show.
In Nigeria oral tradition, songs and 'play dances' are still considered valuable ways to teach lessons about life, family and society. According to an old Efik proverb "If you can talk you can sing. If you can walk you can dance".
At the time of our forefathers and foremothers, our ancient tribal society used specific dances, chants and traditional songs to honor and celebrate the different stages of life. For example, African children both boys and girls underwent what is known as the Rite of Passage. This prepared the child for adulthood and marriage. There are other specific songs and dances to celebrate Nature, Birth and Death.
In the world of today, our children and youth are lacking their sense of identity and connection to their cultural roots. The rites and traditions have been passed down to them to guide and instill a sense of purpose, identity and meaning in life as well as destiny.
Maintaining the implementation of traditional songs and dances not only increase communication and healing, but it brings personal self-empowerment teaching them how to think positively about life. They are taught unity, self-discipline, respect and a sense of direction.
Both dancing and drumming brings unity, harmony and healing to our children and youth. This is the vital part of this program.
This dance program guides children and youth on these aspects of life:
- Social Responsibility
- Self Esteem
- Family Roots
- Love and Respect
- Sense of Community
- Humanity
This program is suitable for Primary, Intermediate and Secondary students.
| Parallel Goals: |
| Language Arts |
- Learn basic vocabulary and dialogue in Efik and other Nigerian tribes.
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| Social Studies |
- Understand cultural changes
- Experience the daily life of African children
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| Social Responsibility |
- Cross-cultural lessons that highlight the respect for elders and peers
- Appreciation of intergenerational communication
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| Visual Arts (Upon Request) |
- Learn and create African face paint designs and how to tie African wraps, which will be integrated into the dances, songs and stories. These are the essential link between the four art disciplines:
Dance, Drama, Music & Visual Arts.
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Please note:
The school must provide materials, props or costumes accessories if they wish to have a formal performance.
This program provides and encourages co-operation, collaboration and active participation from teachers and students. It engages students of all ages and grades. |
