Festivals are events we look forward every now and then, as it brings friends , families and loved one's that the urban area or left for diaspora , back home to relive memories and meet old time friends once again.
Kanikpo masquerade is an ancient Display that has been for a very long time, amongst the Ogoni people, Rivers State Nigeria.
This Display happens Annually on the first day of January, it's a sight to behold as everyone sees the wonderful displays and tricks performed by the Masquerade.
The drummer hits the drum three times before the masquerade throws backflips to showcase their unique skills. Some throw more than five times, while others throw as many times as their skills can carry them. The spectators shout with applause to cheer them up.
Its quite exciting as everyone wants to see for themselves how the dynamics behind the cultural display of Kanikpo.
On this special day, we paid a courtesy visit to the paramount ruler of the Kpean community in Khana Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. Upon arrival at the palace, we were informed that he had moved to the village town square, where they were hosting the annual cultural display. We proceeded to catch up with him there.
On getting to the town square, there was an uproar of people. children, youths, and elderly all gathered in large numbers to watch the beautiful display of their cultural heritage. The atmosphere was charged with joy and emotion, everyone standing peacefully in their positions while the masquerades were visible in the center of the town square. The village elders were seated at a designated stage, along with the paramount ruler.
I like how the ruler was able to join in and be inclusive with the people, in most kingdoms the king would've ordered the display to be brought to his palace and he witnesses it from the comfort of his dwelling.
But then coming out to join his people with the yearly festivals shows how much the king loves his people and kingdom.
I really enjoyed the festivity that came with the display, the flip trick , was really a nice one its something I'm very sure they had to train alot to perfect and be able to perform it without mistakes on the Festive day .
This Native Dance even though it may seem strange it helps brings people together , it also brings learning about cultural Heritage and knowledge aside the Lucidity that accompanies the whole display.
This Job of mine despite how stressful it has come to be a means of exposure and an added knowledge to myself and helping to stretch my craft to a more sustainable development.
With some of this knowledge i could easily become a great Consultant for Cultural Development.
