By Henry Akubuiro
Ifemelumma Nweri is an acclaimed Nigerian dancer, choreographer, and performer renowned for her passion and dedication to preserving and promoting Igbo cultural heritage through dance. Born and raised in Nigeria, Ifemelumma developed a profound appreciation for traditional Igbo dance’s rich storytelling and expressive movements. She studied Child Development and Therapeutic Play at Swansea University, where she integrated her academic knowledge with her artistic practice.
Her artistic journey includes leading the Nganga performance group at notable events, such as the Cardiff Mela Festival in June, 2024, and the Swansea Theatre Global Talent African Community Centre Wales Talent Show in August, 2024. Ifemelumma is also recognised for her role in the Olympic Fusion performance and captivating audiences with her handmade Igbo cultural dance attire and accessories at the Sherman Theatre. The artist, who spoke to Daily Sun in a recent interview about her art and creativity, also designs costumes and accessories for each performance, advocating for inclusion and diversity throughout her artistic endeavours.
At what point did you realise you were a dancer? Were you born with it or it came along the way?
From a young age, I’ve always felt a deep connection to dance. Throughout my primary school years, I was part of the school dance group, though I often wished for more opportunities to fully express my love for dance. I truly believe that dancing is a passion I was born with; it feels like therapy to me. Dancing, like play, has been an essential part of my life since childhood. This passion is what led me to study child development and therapeutic play. Additionally, I’ve written an article that explores the therapeutic benefits of Igbo dance, highlighting its significance in both culture and healing.
Did you receive support from your family at first?
Growing up, my family was not supportive when I shared my passion for dance. Coming from a strict academic background, my parents prioritised academic achievements over creative arts. They believed that success lay solely in academics rather than in nurturing artistic talent and skills.
You started out in Nigeria? How did your Igbo background influence your creativity?
Growing up in Nigeria, my Igbo heritage has significantly shaped my creative endeavours in a multitude of ways. Being immersed in the vibrant traditions, music, and dance of Igbo culture has fostered a deep appreciation for storytelling, and folktales through artistic expression. The rich cultural legacy of my Igbo community inspires me to incorporate traditional elements into my performances, thereby effectively conveying our cultural narratives and values.
The emphasis placed on communal gatherings and celebrations within Igbo culture has influenced my approach to collaboration and teamwork in artistic initiatives. While organising community festivals or leading Ifemeluigbo dance ensembles, I have learned the value of bringing people together, celebrating our diverse backgrounds, and fostering inclusive environments for creative expression.
Moreover, my engagement with Igbo cultural practices, including dance and costume design, provides a unique lens through which I approach creativity. The intricate patterns and vibrant colours inherent in Igbo attire serve as a source of inspiration for my designs, reflecting our cultural identity while allowing for innovation and adaptation in contemporary performances. In conclusion, my Igbo heritage serves as both a foundational platform and a catalyst for my artistic journey, encouraging me to explore, innovate, and share our rich cultural heritage while embracing diversity in all its forms.
In 2023, you demonstrated leadership and foresight when you organised a children’s festival in Eastern Nigeria during the New Yam Festival in Anambra, how significant was this in Igbo culture. How did you organise the children’s festival from start to finish? Tell us more about the venue and the audience.
Organising the Children Festival in Anambra State was a truly exciting journey. I kicked off the process by clearly defining our goals, aiming to create an event that celebrated both the New Yam Festival and the children’s festival while showcasing Igbo culture for families.
Throughout the journey, I relied on my creative organisational skills and teamwork abilities, managing everything from budgeting to choosing a spacious venue that could accommodate a large number of attendees. The festival featured an array of activities, including cultural dance performances, storytelling sessions, art workshops, and traditional games, all showcasing local talent to ensure a vibrant and diverse lineup.
To promote the event, I designed flyers, crafted engaging social media posts, and made community announcements, reaching out to local schools and organisations to spread the word. I also organised rehearsals with the performers to make sure they were well-prepared. For me, this festival was all about fostering a strong cultural identity among the Igbo people particularly children and young people and reinforcing our connection to our roots in an increasingly globalised world. I recognised that globalisation poses a challenge to cultural identity, not just for Igbo heritage but for all diverse cultural identities. This theme was central to an article I published on my website and other platforms.
Leading this festival was a source of great pride, as it fostered cultural appreciation and created lasting memories for all involved. After the event, I gathered feedback from participants and partners to evaluate its success and pinpoint areas for improvement, ensuring that future festivals can build on this momentum and continue to make a meaningful impact.
You have danced across cultures, from Nigeria to Wales and England, how do you prepare for different cultural audiences, home and abroad?
Preparing to engage with diverse cultural audiences, whether at home or abroad, is a deeply rewarding journey that demands a sincere appreciation for each culture and a keen understanding of how to connect through performance. It’s an intriguing experience; I leverage my research skills to explore the traditions, values, and preferences of my audience. This insight allows me to identify what might resonate with them, ensuring my performance is both culturally sensitive and relevant. Additionally, I tap into my teamwork skills to collaborate with local artists. Working alongside local dancers for instance, Somali dancers and South American dancers, and cultural representatives is crucial, as they offer invaluable insights into cultural nuances that inform how I present my work and respect their heritage.
I thrive on change, and inclusion drives my passion; I strive to cultivate transferable skills through choreography adaptation. Often, I modify my choreography to weave in elements familiar to the audience, like traditional movements or rhythms that reflect the audience’s culture, making the performance more relatable. Audience engagement is key; I actively look for ways to involve the audiences, whether through call-and-response interactions, inviting participation, or sharing stories that tie into the themes of the performance.
As a costume designer, the thought put into costumes is crucial. The garments I create blend my cultural background with the aesthetic preferences of the audience. I pay close attention to colours, symbols, and styles that hold significance for them. I firmly believe that creative arts thrive on flexibility and adaptability. I’m always ready to adjust my performance based on the audience’s reactions. If I notice that the crowd connects more with a particular element, I’m prepared to highlight or modify it on the fly.
Finally, learning and feedback are essential for my growth; after each performance, I seek input to gauge what resonated and discover areas for improvement. This ongoing exchange enhances my development as an artist and fosters stronger connections within the community. Performing for diverse audiences is consistently a beautiful experience for me, as my unique perspective shines through, and I can feel the excitement and engagement from the crowd. It’s truly a wonderful experience, something I’ve dreamed of since childhood. By following these steps, I aim to create an authentic experience that honours both my culture and that of the audience, nurturing a sense of unity and celebration through dance.
How did you transit from a dancer in Nigeria to a dancer in the West? Did you encounter teething problems, and how did you overcome them?
Transiting from a dancer in Nigeria to one in the Western world has been an enriching yet challenging journey for me. My foundation in Ifemeluigbo dance is deeply rooted in the vibrant traditions of Igbo culture. Growing up, I took part in numerous local festivals and community events, performing dances that celebrated our heritage. This experience not only sharpened my skills but also instilled in me a strong sense of cultural pride and responsibility.
When the chance came to share my art outside Nigeria, I seized it wholeheartedly. Moving to a Western country marked a significant leap, opening up new avenues for artistic expression. I immersed myself in local dance communities for e.g. Caribbean session dance parades in the Notting Hill carnival in London and I teamed up with the Nganga cultural dance group, performing at various cultural events in Wales and England. Participating in workshops and collaborating with diverse groups introduced me to various styles and techniques, allowing me to blend traditional Igbo dance with contemporary forms, enriching my performances and broadening my audience.
A critical aspect of my transition has been maintaining a connection to my roots while adapting to a new cultural landscape. Engaging in cultural festivals enabled me to showcase our traditions to a wider audience and foster appreciation for my background. Leading performances at events like the Cardiff Mela Festival, Swansea Grand Theatre talent show exhibition, Newport fashion show dance exhibition, and participating in Notting Hill Carnival London not only allowed me to perform but also to educate others about Igbo culture.
I also sought collaborations with artists and organisations that shared my vision of promoting diversity and cultural fusion. These connections helped me engage with the local community and build a supportive network that celebrates cultural exchange. Ultimately, my journey has been about balancing my identity as an Igbo dancer while embracing the diverse influences of the Western dance scene. Through sharing my unique perspective and skills, I hope to inspire others to appreciate the richness of cultural diversity in the performing arts.
While transiting from a dancer in Nigeria to performing in the West presented its fair share of challenges, each one offered opportunities for growth and adaptation. One primary challenge was adjusting to different cultural contexts and expectations. The dance styles and techniques I was accustomed to in Nigeria often differed from Western interpretations. To navigate this, I dedicated time to studying various dance forms through workshops and collaborations with local artists, which not only enriched my style but allowed me to infuse elements from different cultures into my performances, offering a fusion that resonated with diverse audiences.
Another hurdle was dealing with the competitive nature of the Western dance scene. With so many talented performers, it became crucial for me to carve out my unique voice. By leaning into my foundation in Igbo cultural dance and embracing my heritage, I was able to let my personal story shine through in my performances. This authenticity helped me connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Language and communication also posed challenges, particularly when it came to expressing complex ideas about my work. I focused on improving my communication skills to effectively articulate my vision and cultural background. Engaging in community events and discussions allowed me to build networks and foster relationships with fellow artists and organisations, enhancing my support system.
Additionally, pursuing artistic opportunities came with financial strain, especially while establishing myself in a new environment. This challenge motivated me to seek out grants, funding avenues, and collaborations with local organisations aligned with my artistic vision. Such partnerships not only provided financial support but also created additional platforms for showcasing my cultural dance.
Overcoming these challenges has made me more resilient and adaptable. Each obstacle taught me valuable lessons about cultural appreciation, artistic integrity, and the significance of community collaboration. I now celebrate the richness that comes from blending my Nigerian heritage with Western influences, continually striving to create performances that resonate across culture.
Can you recall unforgettable experience (s) as a dancer?
My unforgettable experiences include the Cardiff Mela performance and the Swansea Grand Theatre Talent Show. The Cardiff Mela marked my very first stage performance, and it was truly an incredible experience. Performing in front of such a diverse crowd was exhilarating. To receive cheers from an audience that had little understanding of Igbo culture made me feel immensely proud of my talent for traditional dance. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase my heritage and connect with others through my performance.
How have your dance performances in the UK contributed to the culture dynamics of the UK where you live at the moment?
My dance performances serve as a vital form of cultural representation, particularly through showcasing traditional Igbo dances at key events like the Cardiff Mela Festival in June 2024 and Africa Day Festival in May 2024. These performances create an opportunity for Welsh audiences to connect with and appreciate Nigerian culture, which is crucial for fostering understanding and respect for diverse cultural practices.
Additionally, I actively promote community engagement by participating in local festivals, including the Newport fashion performance exhibition and the Swansea Grand Theatre Global Talent exhibition Show. These initiatives help build a sense of community spirit and encourage collaboration among various cultural groups. My efforts play a significant role in bridging the Nigerian community with other residents, highlighting the importance of multiculturalism in Wales.
I have also performed at educational institutions, conducting Igbo cultural dance presentations during Diversity Week. These experiences contribute to education and awareness, as my performances often serve as informative sessions for audiences who may not be familiar with Igbo traditions. By sharing the stories and significance behind the dances, I enhance understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage within Wales.
Furthermore, I embrace artistic innovation by blending traditional dance elements with contemporary styles, as evident in my unique costume designs and choreography. This fusion not only keeps the art form alive but also attracts a broader audience, sparking interest in cultural arts and diversifying the local artistic scene.
I am committed to pushing cultural boundaries, as my dedication to exploring fresh creative avenues allows me to challenge cultural stereotypes and promote inclusivity. By celebrating diversity in my performances and collaborating with various organisations, I contribute to a richer cultural landscape in Wales.
Through my involvement in cultural events, I aim to strengthen the identity of the Nigerian community in Wales, empowering individuals to celebrate their heritage while enhancing the region’s multicultural fabric. I firmly believe that my dance performances enrich the cultural scene in Wales, fostering dialogue, understanding, and a collective appreciation for the richness of diversity.
Are there recognitions of your efforts so far?
I have received recognition for my community impact in Swansea and throughout Wales, along with heartfelt messages from audience members and workshop participants. Their feedback reflects how my performances and workshops have deepened their appreciation for Igbo culture, making it a rewarding acknowledgment of my work.
This recognition has led to an increase in participation in cultural events, as I have been invited to perform at prestigious occasions such as Black History Month and the Cardiff Mela festival, where my costume designs were featured. This exposure highlights my commitment to celebrating cultural diversity.
I have enjoyed great success in my collaborations and partnerships with local schools and community organisations across Wales. These partnerships have recognised my contributions to cultural education and engagement within the community. Media features in local newsletters and online platforms have also raised awareness about the Ifemelu Igbo Dance performance group in collaboration with Nganga cultural performance group and our mission, emphasising the importance of our cultural efforts. For example, the African Welsh news magazine has been instrumental in showcasing our work.
The positive feedback I’ve received from workshop participants has been incredibly rewarding, affirming that my work resonates with people from various backgrounds. I was also deeply honoured to receive an award from the Rotary Club for my significant contributions to both the arts and community service, which acknowledges my commitment as a creative dancer and choreographer. This recognition truly underscores the impact I’ve made.
My social media engagement has seen remarkable growth, with increasing support and interaction on platforms. The shares and positive comments reflect the community’s appreciation for my performances and the work I’ve done with my group members.
I have also noticed significant personal growth in my artistic and leadership skills, which speaks to my dedication to continually improving my creative abilities. Each of these achievements highlights how my efforts have been acknowledged and appreciated, contributing to a broader cultural dialogue within the community.
What’s your projection as a dancer in the next 3-5 years?
I have a deep love for my culture, particularly its vibrant dances. In the past, I’ve been actively involved in various cultural dance forms. Looking ahead to the next 3 to 5 years, my goal as a dancer is to enhance my innovative skills and leverage immersive arts to promote Igbo cultural dance. I aim to make Igbo culture accessible to a wider audience through technology, and I’m excited about the prospect of touring and performing internationally.
I also aspire to explore choreography and creative projects, working to craft original pieces that merge traditional and contemporary styles. By collaborating with other artists, I intend to create innovative performances that celebrate our cultural diversity.
In the coming years, I hope to take on the role of a dance instructor, leading workshops and classes for aspiring dancers. This will allow me to share my passion and knowledge of Igbo dance, inspiring the next generation while contributing to the preservation of our rich cultural heritage. Additionally, I’m eager for performance opportunities, envisioning myself on stage at various cultural events, festivals, and competitions. These performances will not only highlight my talent but also serve as a platform to showcase Igbo culture and connect with diverse audiences.
In summary, my ambitions as a dancer over the next 3 to 5 years revolve around skill enhancement, diverse performance opportunities, community engagement, teaching, and creative choreography. I am dedicated to sharing and celebrating Igbo culture through dance. This journey promises not only to foster my personal growth as an artist but also to promote a deeper appreciation and understanding of our rich cultural heritage.
Why is the importance of dance in contemporary society?
In my article, I highlighted the healing and therapeutic benefits of dance, particularly cultural dance, for individuals of all ages. Dance serves as an effective outlet for stress relief and is instrumental in promoting mental health through the release of endorphins. Furthermore, it supports emotional well-being by enabling individuals to express themselves, facilitating the processing of emotions and personal experiences.
As a potent medium for cultural storytelling and heritage, dance provides an opportunity for self-acceptance while allowing communities to preserve and adapt their traditions. This practice fosters diversity and understanding among different cultural groups, making it particularly important for children and young people, as it aids in developing self-confidence and promotes self-acceptance.
Individuals often report a heightened sense of confidence while dancing, creating an empowering experience. In contemporary society, the significance of dance is evident, given its enjoyable, energetic, and engaging nature. Beyond its entertainment value, dance contributes positively to physical and emotional health, offering numerous benefits such as enhanced cardiovascular fitness, improved flexibility, and increased strength. It encourages physical activity in a pleasurable manner, thereby addressing issues such as obesity and mental health challenges.
Moreover, dance plays a vital role in cultivating social connectivity and community engagement. Whether through social dance classes, performances, or community events, it brings individuals together, fostering relationships, nurturing a sense of belonging, and promoting transferable skills.
In addition, in light of the rapid changes brought about by globalisation, dance encourages creativity and innovation. Choreography frequently pushes artistic boundaries and explores new ideas, rendering dance a dynamic form of expression that reflects contemporary issues, trends, and movements.
Lastly, dance enhances cognitive skills and discipline, particularly in cultural dance forms that require children to master intricate steps. This practice not only supports cognitive development but also enhances social skills, encouraging teamwork and collaboration. Overall, dance is a vital tool for nurturing creativity in children, promoting critical thinking, and engaging them in collaborative projects. I could go on endlessly about the significance of dance because it truly is a beautiful art form, and I absolutely love dancing.