Feminist Dimensions and Masquerade Performances in Nigeria

Abstract

Masquerade performances in Nigeria are rich cultural engagements are important means by which the traditions of indigenous Nigerian societies are measured and transmitted into the future. This study considers feminist dimensions and masquerade performances in Nigeria, with particular reference to masquerade engagements in ldoma land. Gender politics found in masquerade performances of ethnic groups situated in Yoruba, Efik, and Ibibio lands are not evident in the masquerade performances found in Idoma land in which women are prominent. Historically the ldoma people have not displayed negative gender biases regarding women, and women have been an integral part of the propagation of the ldoma cultural heritage. Remarkably, the dynamism of the feminist dimensions of masquerade performances in which women participate in ldoma land has created new vistas for cultural revival and interdisciplinary discourse in the Performance Arts in particular, another suitable terminology for the structure and performances of African masquerade.