-THE BIG MOTH The domba fire seems duller than usual, a phalaphala trumpet is blown and the master leads the singing of Domba Song No. 10. The novices' attention is drawn to dancing lights on a slope above the ruler's village. The effect is achieved by two or three people who dance together, holding in each hand a burning piece of wood (the unnoticed removal of the wood from the domba fire contributed to the darkness which is essential for the effect). When well done, this simple show can be a very exciting display of timing, nuance, and hesitation: the lights go up, down, or from side to side; together or in contrary motion; in short stabs or in long glides; in an explosion of disorder or a dynamic sweep of co-ordinated movement. There is no lesson, and apparently the accompaniment is an ordinary song which has been adopted for this particular show. In some areas, it is sung as an ndayo of vhusha.    To return, click 'Back' in the browser. Next