Guest
Primus performed the Fanga Dance for a TV broadcast entitled “Pearl Primus: Omowale (Child Returns Home).” I. The first part of the video was Primus speaking a dramatic monologue through which she translates the meaning of the dance: Oh earth, Oh earth, you embrace the bones of our ancestors. Help me, lend me your strength. Help me welcome my guests. And drums, drums, lend me your voice. Help me welcome my guests. Sky and earth, sky and earth. Sky, help me, bless me. Help me welcome my guests. Then like the darting bird, I will search their hearts to see if there’s anger. And when I find none, into the yard to find a fowl for their table. Welcome from my heart to you, all that is good in me. From my head, all I can think of for your comfort. You’re welcome! [Transcribed by the Robert J. Damm]. II. The second part of the video (starts at 3:41) was a performance of the Fanga Dance accompanied by three drummers.
