The Tribal Dance Raises Tempo at ARMA

Well this might have looked sedate to some: chairs folded and put aside, the crowd in lotus on the floor, waiting for instruction.

With gentle electronic backing we are encouraged to sway back ann forth, to loosen and relax into movement from the centre outwards. Then side-to-side, including raising and lowering our arms. There is the pulse of electronica in the back. It offers the promise of launching forth into full blown rhythm, but is contained by the deft finger s of the DJ.

After more stretching and gentle movement we are finally on our feet, yet still with restraint, focusing on what the feeling is inside the body rather than its external movements.

The pulse quickens, the beat is unleashed into bewitching rhythm, and the crowd becomes as one, an organism seeking its fullest, most unhindered form. Smiles of delight on bouncing sweaty faces! The crowd will find the ecstasy it wants in celebration of the Spirit that has come to bless the festival.

Written by : Anthony Dunkley