Video: Taskiwin, Martial Dance of the Western High Atlas
The Taskiwan of the Atlas Mountains is a warrior dance of the Amazigh people of North Africa.
Taskiwin is a traditional Amazigh, or Berber, dance from the Atlas Mountain range of North Africa. Its most distinctive feature is the horn, or tiskt, and tassels worn on the shoulders of participants, which act as more than just decoration. As the dancers move back and forth, bells sewed to the horns jingle, accompanied by drums, flutes, tambourines, and voices. In this way, the dancers’ bodies become a musical instrument in their own right; the skill of the dancers determines the skill of the performance.
Taskiwin is a warrior’s dance, meaning it’s usually performed by men. It’s designed to be intimidating, but also to foster a sense of group unity among the dancers. New generations take part in the dance, forming a stronger community in the process. Today, however, Taskiwin is in danger of disappearing with the elders of these communities, sparking new efforts to preserve its cultural heritage.
This video, courtesy of UNESCO, shows several different performaces of Taskiwin, as well as the craftsmanship that goes into its associated objects.
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