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published by Ryan Molimo Giordano at 07.06.2007

Insight on Contemporary Trance Dance

Ritual Ethnology and Spirituality

~~ By Ryan Giordano ~~

“[trance dancing] a divine vessel for personal and global transformation through ceremony, dance, music, light, food and personal interaction.” -Robin Sylvan (1)

Throughout all of time, the human species has combined the sonic driving of rhythmic and repetitious drumbeats with ecstatic dance to induce trance states which facilitate a transition between ordinary reality and spiritual community. Inherent in the human condition, trance dancing directly relates to a person's absolute being and conceptualization of the self. These trance dance rituals enable people with spiritual connectivity as well as define them culturally. Trance dancing exists as a tribal societal function which allows the participants to come together in dance and celebration for primary religious experience, spiritual growth, and community (Sylvan, Trance, 1). Trance dance theology is enacted in ritual, as it is displayed with careful consideration and specific intent. The trance dance ritual becomes a working part of the community and serves its function like a rite of passage or spiritual quest.

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