The Yanvalou is performed during the Rada rituals of Haitian Vodou in reference to Damballah, the serpent spirit or lwa. Damballah is the loa of fertility[1]. The dance is characterized by the hands being placed on bent knees[2], and snake-like or wave movements. It has several variations[3]:
Yanvalou Fran is the base version
Yanvalou debout (standing),
Yanvalou des bas (squatting),
Yanvalou z'epaules (a "shoulder dance"), etc.
Yanvalou Maskowan is the more advanced and involves more rhythmic engagement[4]
Description
The Yanvalou Rhythm is characterized by its slow and fluid movements[3], resembling waves on the ocean[5] Slow and hypnotic,the Yanvalou dance symbolizes the spiritual connection with the deities.[6]
Yanvalou's main movement is the spinal undulation, which flowing body movements, which go from head to pelvis[7]; you can visually compare to the "boneless" movement of the Tiv Swange. The physicality of the dance is the center of gravity is low, knees are bent, and the undulating with the torso, spine, chest, and solar plexus.[8]
Origins
Yanvalou originates from Benin, West Africa.Derived from the Fon and Mahi peoples of present-day Benin.[9]
Instruments
Yanvalou rhythm is played on a specific set of 3 percussion instruments, including the maman, seconde (or "segun"), and boula (or "bass") drums, along with an ogan (an iron bell).
Yanvalou Gede
Yanvalou Gede is a slower version of the Banda rhythm. Used before progressing to the customary, faster Banda in the Rada rites. This is a Gede-specific version of the Rada, Yanvalou dance.Particularly for the Fet Gede, or the "Festival of the Dead"[10].
Yanvalou Maskowan
Yanvalou Maskowan is more advanced and requires mastery of all of the other forms of Yanvalou. Close to the Yanvalou Gede but more specific to the Maskawon style than the ceremony[4].
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