IDUU AND NKWANWITE DANCE COSTUMES: TOWARDS A CULTURAL DOCUMENTATION

Abstract

Abstract 
Traditional dance costumes play a crucial role in enhancing 
visual appeal while conveying profound cultural significance. 
However, as globalisation, technological advancements, and 
modern influences continue to shape cultural practices, there has 
been a notable shift in the originality of these costumes. This 
evolution often results in a unique blend of Western and African 
fabrics in the designs of traditional dance attire. Unfortunately, 
the original designs are frequently lost due to inadequate 
documentation. This study employed a purposive sampling 
technique in selecting the dances, and it used in-depth 
interviews and participant observation to collect appropriate 
data, Utilising the semiotic theories of Charles Sanders Peirce 
and Ferdinand de Saussure, it evaluates the cultural relevance of 
these costumes within performances. The findings indicate that 
the Iduu and Nkwanwite dance costumes have undergone some 
evolutionary changes due to global influences. It ultimately 
recommends that scholarly documentation is essential for 
preserving endangered costume practices and calls for more 
academic research in the field of Indigenous traditional dance 
costumes.