Dance as cultural diplomacy

Abstract

Diplomacy defines the acceptability and sometimes fortunes of nations and danceas a considerably important item in the diplomatic sphere can better be appreciated in cultural activities of a nation/state where all ethnic nationalities are represented in their various peculiar identities. The diversity in Nigerian dances gives credence to the diverse cultures from which they emerged. Dance itself is not merely a unification of symbols, the symbols contain also the language content of any given society. The conception of images, therefore becomes an expansion of the linguistic pattern of a group of people. These symbols and images help in the clarification of man‘s determination to understand his environment and express his inner feeling of celebration or sadness. Although dance as an art of movement that transmits images of feelings, ideas, and intentions into movement sequences has featured in the mobilization for cultural diplomacy, there is a growing awareness that it is capable of contributing, even more prominently, not just as an end but as a key constituting means towards that end. This paper critically defines and updates the concept of cultural diplomacy and explores the possible roles of dance in promoting the cultural diplomacy objectives of a community, state or country and this will inspire renewed efforts and greater commitment amongst the concerned institutions saddled with the implementation of cultural diplomacy in Nigeria at all levels. The work employs historical,literary methodologies and review of relevant literatures. Cultural diplomacy is seen as one of the greatest tools of achieving national objectives in cultural development and if well practiced, it can go a long way to change the wrong perception of Nigeria to the outside world.