Africa: Wild & Wonderful

Do I have memories of dancing as a child? I sure do! I loved to dance when I was younger and still do many years later. As a child, I remember dancing around the Christmas tree – with or without music. I was very outgoing and silly. I enjoyed “putting on a show” and dance promoted that for me. As an adult, I often dance around my condo, with my Pug Bronco looking on. When I was younger I was not inhibited by my dancing even if someone was looking on. Now, that I’m older and most likely influenced by society, I don’t purposefully dance around alone if I know someone is watching. I find this somewhat sad – I’m a victim of age and influence. I need my dancing shoes!

When you hear music, are you affected by the rhythm you hear? I love rhythm and enjoy “club” music very much. I’m inspired to move my body when I hear a certain beat/rhythm. The blues, drums and rap music provide me with the greatest jolt to move. Music without words mostly encourages me to dance and create body movement as well. Most likely because I’m able to self interpret and not be influenced by the words as to what to feel and dance. The street style, theatre show Stomp is a great example of free movement and expression. The use of garbage cans, plastic bags, sticks…anything that promotes sound…demonstrated the use of innovative tools to create “music” and sound. The group was never discouraged to use anything – it truly inspired movement and made you feel like you could do it because everything they used was within reach (or your own backyard!).

Do you think of Africa as a country or continent? This is an interesting question. I often think of Africa as a country most likely because “state” is more common and part of my cultural influence as a U.S. citizen. I forget that Africa is made of many countries vs. states. When I think of Africa, the National Geographic comes to mind. I also think of lions, zebras, giraffes, and most other wild-like creatures. Famine comes to mind as well. Most likely influenced by the media attention, genocide frequents my thoughts. For reasons unknown, I have always wanted to visit Africa. Perhaps the excitement – wild, unique, tribal attributes. I may get there one day to meet my child.