Reflections on a Video Series (Re)presenting Local Dance Knowledge

Abstract

This article discusses a collaboratively produced video series aimed at documenting and representing local knowledge of the Senegalese sabar dance tradition. I reflect on the process of recording and editing from the perspective of the decolonization of knowledge, questioning how the audiovisual format and the focus on local dance knowledge might contribute to the goal of broadening and diversifying the scope of academic knowledge. I also consider how this particular way of working might differ (or not) from commonly used methods of knowledge production and publication in ethnomusicology.