Feminist Dimensions in Idoma Masquerade Performances

Abstract

Nigeria is rich in cultural engagements with masquerade performances. These performances are part of the nation’s historical experience. It is pertinent to note that masquerade performances in Nigeria revolve around the past and act as a futuristic telescope through which the traditions of indigenous Nigerian societies are measured, While gender politics comes to play in masquerade performances in Nigeria in ethnic groups such as those in Yoruba, Efik and Ibibio lands, the Idoma people have not paid attention to women in the masquerade process. However, women have been an integral part of the propagation of the Idoma cultural heritage through the medium of masquerade performances. To this end, this study employs the literary and descriptive methodologies to appraise feminist dimensions in masquerade performances in Nigeria, with particular reference to masquerade engagements in Idoma land. The study reveals that the dynamism of masquerade performances in Idoma land has created a new vista for cultural revival and interdisciplinary discourse in the Performance Arts, which made it a suitable terminology for the description of the African masquerade structure and performances. Conclusively, if masquerading must continue to thrive in Idoma land, then the role of the woman in the masquerading process should not be ignored.