Masquerades

Teachers Program Guide
“Dances of West Africa”
African Heritage Dancers & Drummers

CHAKABA

Masquerades in traditional African societies play an important role, as they represent the spirit of protection provided by deceased ancestors. The masquerade on stilts, known as a “Chakaba,” is the embodiment of ancestor spirits that operate from a secret society institution. Charged with protecting the people of the village and making sure that “All People” behave themselves, the Chakaba is utilized by parents to make children behave and by elders to teach values of discipline and mutual respect. In essence, he is a “Spiritual Policeman.”