Exploring our Island’s heritage
By Ayana Ming-Bean
The most iconic figure of Bermuda’s heritage is the Bermuda Gombey.
I have been reflecting on the effect of the gombey due to my mother, Angela Ming-Bean’s entry into the Charman Prize. They were not once revered and respected as they are today; Slaves were only allowed to dance once a year and to conceal their identity they used the masks — a form of satire, if you will.
The Gombey is indigenous to the Bermudian culture and also has a resemblance to other traditional figures. Since Bermuda is a diverse society, it is no surprise that the dance incorporates traditions from African, Native American, Caribbean and British traditions.
The word itself is a West African term meaning rhythm. Their dances often represent biblical stories and events, yet the costumes, dance style, and colours of the troupe are what really make for the full gombey experience. The leader of the group is usually garbed in a velvet cape and carries the whip and whistle. The Lead Indian or bowman is usually in front of the troupe. The remaining dancers are known as the warriors and have an axe.
The gombey summarises the history of Bermuda. The hypnotic drum beat and the bottle whistle or fife accompaniment add melodious music to alert all of the approaching dancers. The crowd is just as important as the troupe. Shouts of ‘Ayo’ the Gombey anthem and stomping of their feet, enlivens the troupe making their dance moves more intense.
The story and evolvement of the gombey however, is much more than can be seen through the performance. The troupe provides stimulation in a safe environment for its members. The older Gombeys have a tradition to pass down and in the process pass on experiences and wisdom to the younger minds of the troupe.
A griot is someone who keeps traditions alive in the African culture and the Gombeys are possibly the only African tradition that Bermuda has claimed wholeheartedly.
Our African influence is evident in lots of customs, but we ignore or change the authenticity of it.
Is it because of the dark time of slavery or is it because no one has ever taught us of our heritage?
We learn of historic tragedies and celebrated holidays in remembrance of them in the education system, yet constantly the idea of beginning as slaves, is perpetuated into the psyche of the average African descendant.
I believe the Gombey and its African background is a powerful reminder of the African fortitude and the misconceptions we have of the continent.
A hands-on approach to journalism
Anyan Ming-Bean is a Berkeley Institute student who is taking a course in Journalism and Publications.
Her work is a fine example of what the class is producing and English Language Arts Teacher, Ms Tonisha Holmes, is full of praise for all taking the class.
“The Berkeley Institute’s Journalism and Publications course was first offered as a means for like-minded students to learn the art of journalism while putting together the school’s 2013-2014 yearbook,” said Ms Holmes.
“The students’ interests range from broadcast journalism, sports journalism, and print journalism to photography. Having an eclectic group such as this made it easy to liase with Sarah Fellows, education officer at The Royal Gazette, to produce quality products and share students’ successes with the community.
“Each of the 18 students in the Journalism and Publication course will have an article featured in the Young Observer based on individual research and interests. The Royal Gazette has offered us the opportunity to have a hands-on approach while students broaden their horizons.
“The positive feedback from students, staff, parents and the community has given students the motivation they need to move forward. As one student quipped, “see Ms. Holmes, now we can show everyone we aren’t all doing bad things.”
