Sibylle and the girls had prepared a surprise for the "godmothers" with the help of a folk dance teacher - a Batuko dancing exhibition. For those who may not known what it is and what it means in the Cape Verdian culture I should say it is the most reminiscent dancing performance in Cape Verde. The rhythm is provided by surrogate drums (rolled up cloth held between the legs and pounded with the hands).
It is the music of women, sitting around in a semi-circle beating the "panos", all taking different rhythms which layer together into an complex audible structure. Women sing and women dance taking turns, slowly at first with gyrating hips and then gradually faster and faster until there is a upgrading climax of the dancing, the pounding of the "panos" and the chanting.
Though the origin of the Batuko is rather obscure many trace it back to a time when the slave owner would offer guests the pick of his slave women. Many others believe it originated from the Santiago women's culture itself - a way of coping with the grief of a loss, through a purging frenzy dancing.
Irrespective of its origin, the girls seem to have demonstrated a professionalism in their performance, my friends were deeply touched by and considered second to none, having been strongly applauded by the audience (the "godmothers" and the remaining girls who didn't take an active part in the performance).
Listening to the teacher's last instructions
Performing Batuko players and singers: Jocelyne, Rivia, Diva, Carla, Delmizia and Rosana
Performing Batuko dancers and singers: Ivanilde Elena, Nolita, Daniela and Erica
Performing Lead singers: Daniela (first and third performing group) and Rosana (second performing group)
None of the girls left home without taking a present for their mothers or any relative (they may be living with).
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