Tumbe

The Tumbe dance or Tumba carnaval is a cultural afro-chilean expression originated from El Valle de Azapa. According to Báez (2010), this dance started as a festive round where women would expel their male partners with a strike with the hip, as a playful way to reject them.

Over the years

For years, this dance was not practiced because of the persecution afro-arican culture suffered. However, in the 2000s there was a revitalization of Tumbe, revaluing it as an important part of Afro-descendant cultural heritage. This expression includes the use of traditional instruments such as the bass drum, the quijada and the guitar, which accompany the dancers in their rhythmic movements. At the end of each verse of the music, the characteristic cry is heard: Tumba Carnaval!, which marks a moment of exaltation and collective connection.

THE CLOTHES

In its evolution, the Tumbe has adapted to the urban context, maintaining its festive essence while dialoguing with modern environments. Furthermore, many authors agree with the idea that the clothing used by the dancers has deep symbolism: the colors yellow, green, black and red represent the desert, the Valle de Azapa, the olive and the blood, respectively, as interpreted by authors, musicians and dancers who seek to preserve its symbolic and cultural richness.

Overall, the Tumbe or Tumba Carnaval is today a living testimony of Afro-descendant resistance, identity and creativity, uniting their chilean, afro and indigenous culture through its music, dance and meanings.

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