Published Dec 26, 2018 at 3:55 pm (Updated Dec 26, 2018 at 5:24 pm)
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Gombeys on Boxing Day
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Boxing Day: Places Gombeys on Court Street. (Photograph by Akil Simmons)
Gombey troupes were out in force around the island today for their annual post-Christmas performances.
Kent Henry, the president of Place’s New Generation Gombeys, said that Gombeys and Boxing Day were synonymous.
He added: “In Bermuda, it is something that we have always done.”
Mr Henry, 55, a drummer with the troupe for the last 30 years, looked back on a childhood surrounded by Gombeys in the Roberts Avenue, Devonshire, area.
Bermuda’s Gombeys are an African tradition with Caribbean, Native American and British elements, and their practices are passed down by generations.
The word “Gombey” derives from a Bantu word for “rhythm”.
Mr Henry said that about 20 dancers and drummers were expected to take part backed by a support group of about the same size.
He added that the troupe had been preparing for the last two months.
Mr Henry said: “Boxing Day is the longest day.”
The troupe started its day with a performance at the Hamilton Princess Hotel.
“It’s a celebration of culture, it’s a celebration of Bermudian culture — it’s a celebration of life, really,” Mr Henry said.
“The music and the dancing — once it gets to you, you feel it. It’s a spirit that goes with the Gombeys.“
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