Limbo (dance)

An alternative explanation of the name is suggested; that the version of the limbo performed in nineteenth century Tobago was meant to symbolize slaves entering the galleys of a slave ship, or a spirit crossing over into the afterworld, or "limbo", but no literary reference is known to substantiate this postulated linkage.

This was to continue in the Americas in games, religious ceremonies and other musical forms that used cultural traditions from Africa.

The limbo spoke directly of the limited space in the slaving ships and the African ability to escape it.

[9] Limbo players generally move and respond to a number of specific Afro-Caribbean drum patterns.

As Limbo gained popularity as a tourist activity and a form of entertainment, pop music began using Caribbean rhythms to respond to the emerging craze in the United States.

After a preparatory game, the player prepares and approaches the bar, lowering and leaning back their body while balancing on feet akimbo with knees extended backwards.

Limbo's continued significance in Trinidadian and Tobagonian culture ia clearly demonstrated in festivals and social events across the two islands, including performances by popular game troupes at the Prime Minister's Best Village Competition, and during the Carnival season in Trinidad and Tobago.

[citation needed] When performing for tourists, professional limbo players often invite spectators to participate after their own presentation of the game.

limbo dancing has been conducted as a social "icebreaker" game for tourists at Caribbean and other tropical resorts.

[citation needed] The world record for lowest limbo game is held by Dennis Walston, who successfully attempted a 6-inch (15 cm) bar in March 1991.

[10] The world record for lowest female limbo game is held by Shemika Charles, a 26-year-old woman from Trinidad who lives in Buffalo, NY.