Historicising Dance in Mkpat Enin: The Example of Abre Dance

Abstract

The people of Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, have a performance of Abre dance, which is a very important indigenous cultural performance. Originally associated with the planting and harvesting of water yam (Abre), the dance has today become an important socio-cultural institution for married women in Mkpat Enin to share experiences, settle marital disputes, promote communal harmony and uphold tradition. This research studies the history, cultural significance and present-day relevance of Abre dance within the socio-cultural context of Mkpat Enin. This study will utilize a qualitative research approach. It will utilize Cultural Expression Theory, Symbolic Interactionism and Cultural Heritage Theory. Together the three theories show that dance is a form of communication, identification and preservation of heritage. The results showed that Abre dance is not just for entertainment, as it serves as a vessel of community history, a platform for women’s empowerment, a conflict resolution method, and a way to transmit indigenous knowledge from past to future generations. This however is now being threatened by modern technology, Christian ideology, low level of Youth participation, lack of attention by Afia Abre, as well as the change of socio- cultural value systems. The article concludes that the Abre dance is an inalienable heritage to the Mkpat Enin people and can be kept alive through documentation, educating cultural values, institution support system, community involvement, incorporation into festivals.