Kaisokah Moko Jumbie USA Inc., a stilt performance group founded in 2010, is marching to the beat of a tradition that dates back to before anyone in the group was born.
“I see it as something that keeps our younger generation off the street,” said Jason Edwards, executive director of Kaisokah Moko Jumbie USA Inc.
What you need to know
- As the 55th Annual American West Indian Day Parade returns to the streets of Brooklyn for Labor Day, a group of performing designers are ready to take center stage showcasing their new talent while keeping the Caribbean tradition alive
- Kaisokah Moko Jumbie USA Inc., founded in 2010, is a group of performers called moko jumbies, who are thought to have originated in the African tradition and were brought to the Caribbean.
- The group begins training children as young as three and performs throughout the city and abroad
Edwards works on the pillars that take each performer to new heights.
These performers are called moko jumbies, which are thought to have originated in African tradition and were brought to the Caribbean.
“It is centuries old. In Africa it’s usually used to protect villagers,” Edwards said.
Throughout the Caribbean, moko jumbies are icons that are an integral part of celebrations. The group trains children up to three years old.
“You don’t see that a lot and I like to be different and I like to do it because I like to help people,” said Christine Melville, a trainer.
She and other trainers, such as Bishmii Sanchez, have been performing on their feet for more than 10 years.
“We keep our balance by constantly moving, but keeping the same balance while doing a trick and moving can be difficult,” Sanchez said. “I was able to go to places like Trinidad & Tobago, St. Vincent, Miami.”
Next on the band’s performance agenda, the 55th Annual Brooklyn American Indian West Parade, which is making a triumphant return for the first time since the pandemic.
The Brooklyn parade is a staple for this group of designers, and they’ve been practicing dance routines non-stop in preparation.
The test parents couldn’t help but show their support.
“I think it’s important, we have to keep going,” said Tanya Folkes, whose 12-year-old daughter is a performer in the band.
Folks credits the activity for teaching her daughter, Madison Jones, leadership skills.
“The hardest part is not looking down,” Jones said as she balanced on her feet. “It keeps me out of trouble and gives me something to do.”
Every dance move made by the performers, from children to teenagers, is built on trust and communication.
The group hopes that one day they will have their own rehearsal building and plans to continue expanding the programming to bring the art of moko jumbie dance to more audiences.
“When I’m performing, two things cross my mind; making my performance good and showing people that the culture is still alive,” Melville said.
