Talk: Masquerade Ceremonies of The Gambia

2 May 2026

Esplanade Recital Studio

1hr (No Intermission)

Free, registration is required Registration for Esplanade&Me members only: 16 Apr 2026, Thu, 10am

This event is over.

Synopsis

This talk introduces the masquerade dances central to the Jola communities of West Africa, such as the Kumpo, and the vital role each plays in the cultural and spiritual life in the community.

Through this session, audiences gain a deeper understanding of the symbolism, rituals, and traditions that surround Jola masquerades, and how these practices sustain Jola identity, moral teaching, and cohesion within the community.

Come witness the acrobatic feats and mysteries of the Kumpo and other Jola masquerades in Kumpo: Spirit Protector and other Masquerade Dances, and catch the spirited exchange between Kumpo percussionists, Berending Kumpo Association, and Singapore’s Lila Dums in Kumpo Meets Lila Drums.

Advisory

Tickets are exclusively available for Esplanade&Me members. Sign up for free.
Patrons who have registered will have priority entry to the venue.
Patrons who have registered must arrive 5 mins before the start of the event to guarantee your admission.
Patrons who have registered but are not at the venue 5 mins before the start will have their seats released to walk-in patrons on a first-come, first-served basis.
Limited seats are available at the door.
If you are unable to join us, you may pass the e-ticket to someone else or return your tickets via the link on your SISTIC confirmation email.

Admission Age

10 and above.

Language

English

Date & Time

Time

Venue

Info

Access Needs

Time5:00 PM

VenueEsplanade Recital Studio

Info—

Access Needs

Advisory

Tickets are exclusively available for Esplanade&Me members. Sign up for free.
Patrons who have registered will have priority entry to the venue.
Patrons who have registered must arrive 5 mins before the start of the event to guarantee your admission.
Patrons who have registered but are not at the venue 5 mins before the start will have their seats released to walk-in patrons on a first-come, first-served basis.
Limited seats are available at the door.
If you are unable to join us, you may pass the e-ticket to someone else or return your tickets via the link on your SISTIC confirmation email.

Admission Age

10 and above.

Language

English

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when a performance is cancelled or postponed?

When a show is cancelled, ticket buyers will be duly notified by the event organiser primarily via email. You may also be notified through the event organiser's authorised ticketing agent, media or any other applicable communication channels. Information will be provided on where and when you can get your refund. For postponed performances for which the date of the new performance is known, refunds are optional.

For free programmes, any cancellations or postponements will be updated on the event website and/or relevant official communication channels. As no tickets are issued, refunds do not apply.

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For indoor performances, photography and video recording are generally not allowed during the show unless stated otherwise by the promoters or artists.

For performances at public spaces, such as those at the Concourse and DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre, photography and casual video recording are generally allowed for personal use. Please be mindful not to use flash, obstruct others, or disrupt the performance. Some programmes may still restrict recording based on artist requirements, so please follow on-site announcements or staff instructions.

Do I have to purchase a ticket for my child

Can I eat or drink during the show?

Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the venue. It depends on the venue as well. For some shows, you may bring food and drinks purchased at the foyer bars at the Concert Hall or Theatre into the venues. For shows at the Annexe Studio, where there is a bar in the venue, eating or drinking is no issue.

For outdoor programmes, food and drinks are typically allowed unless otherwise stated. However, we encourage audiences to be mindful of the performance environment and dispose of waste responsibly. Restrictions may apply depending on the specific event setup, so please refer to the event listing for details.

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