 
The Simba (Zimba) is a masked dance of the Wolof tribe. They are
costumed entertainers and dancers, who can often been seen making
ferocious performances both at festivals and programs organized
on the streets of residential areas. It costs a few dalasi to
watch; many children try to sneak a peak, only to be chased away
with the threat of being beaten by the Simba
if caught.
The Simba mask often picks audience members to this unique African
dance, and if he his not pleased by their performance, he requires
compensation in the form of Dalasi. Simbas are good at evoking
fear in their audiences, both paying and especially non-paying—indeed,
"Zimba" means "lion dancer" in Wolof.
The West African mask dancers are dressed in a cow hair mask,
black and yellow paint on their faces and a costume composed of
different animal furs, fabrics and shells.
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Culture & Traditions Rites
of Passage Masks
Music Dance
