From the Village Moonlight to Stage and Screen: A Choreographic Study of the Offiong Dance of Eastern Ibibio Ikono, Akwa Ibom State

This study examines the transformation of the Offiong dance from its traditional village performances in Ibibio communities to modern adaptations for stage and screen. Motivated by the need to preserve and promote indigenous dance, the research unfolds in three parts: first, exploring theoretical frameworks in dance, folklore, and choreography; second, reviewing Nigeria’s dance evolution amid urbanization and media influences; and third, analyzing the Offiong dance as a case study for adaptation. Using historicity and deconstruction, the study traces the dance’s journey from communal rituals to choreographed productions, proposing methods to retain cultural authenticity while enhancing artistic appeal. By refining movement vocabulary and staging techniques, the paper demonstrates how traditional dances can engage contemporary audiences without losing their essence. The findings highlight the potential of media and commercialization in sustaining Ibibio dance heritage globally. This research contributes to cultural preservation debates, offering a model for adapting indigenous performances in modern contexts.