A group of traditional performers, the
Intore dancers are famous for their moves and their high jumping. Intore
dancing, an art form that has been around since before colonial times was
originally performed for Tutsi Kings (mwami) and the groups that performed
these dances were warriors. The Intore is generally made up of a 3 part
performance; women performing a ballet, men performing the warriors’ “Dance of
Heroes” and a drumming section.
Movement
The moves that the dancers used stay true
to their time honoured traditions, and as the performances were originally
performed by warrior dancers, there is an element of graceful aggression in
their movements. The dances usually tell a story, and the performance will
usually denote a battle or a struggle between two tribes. One of the most
ancient dancing in Africa, this type of Rwandan dancing also is famous for the
dancers performing very high jumps using a special technique which can raise
them sometimes 2 meters into the air!
Music
Vocals and other sounds are a huge part of
the Intore dancer’s performance as well. Singing in harmony during slower parts
of the music, chanting aggressively when the performance builds to a more
aggressive stage and the jangle of the bells wrapped around their ankles all
add to the stage presence of these group of men. Drumming that accompanies the
piece will generally kick in to fasten the pace of the piece and vocals can be
used to either denote struggle or peace.
Costume
Traditional dress is worn when performing
the Intore dance, also known as the ‘Dance of Heroes’. The warrior dancers wear
bands of bells around their ankles to create a unique sound as they stamp their
feet, carry a traditionally carved shield and spear, and wear sisal fibre wigs
(sometimes made of grass).
Overall the Intore dance performance is one
of the most popular Rwandan traditions still kept alive today, and tourists
flock from all over the world to see these traditional dances and experience
some of the heart and soul of Rwanda.
