The Guardians of Culture
Welcome to Guardians of Culture Moko Jumbies, where we celebrate and preserve the vibrant heritage of the Virgin Islands through the captivating art of mocko jumbie stilt dancing! Dating back over 200 years, mocko jumbies are an integral part of our cultural tapestry, originating from Africa and becoming synonymous with our island’s traditions and festivities.
At Guardians of Culture Moko Jumbies, we honor this rich legacy by showcasing the colorful spectacle of traditional stilt dancers adorned in vibrant attire and masks. These towering figures, standing around 5 feet tall on stilts, symbolize protectors and guardians, warding off evil spirits and embodying the powers of God.
Led by the esteemed Willard John, a pillar of the St. Croix community, our troupe has dedicated itself to preserving and passing down the art of mocko jumbie dancing since 1979. With over 35 years of experience, Willard and his wife Curliss meticulously craft stunning costumes and masks while imparting their knowledge and passion to the next generation.
Our commitment to preserving Virgin Islands culture extends beyond performances; we actively engage with the community, training over 400 young Virgin Islanders in the traditional art of mocko jumbie. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, our team continues to thrive, gathering weekly to teach, repair stilts, and provide guidance to aspiring jumbies.
What Is A Moko Jumbie?
Moko Jumbies – the spirited stilts walkers and dancers pulsating with vibrant energy. Rooted in West African tradition and embraced by the Caribbean, these enchanting figures embody a fusion of cultures and histories.
Derived from the Central African word for healer, “Moko,” and Trinidadian term for ghost or spirit, “jumbi,” Moko Jumbies exude an otherworldly aura. Their presence, adorned in colorful garb and adorned with elaborate carnival masks, evokes a mesmerizing spectacle reminiscent of both Dutch and indigenous influences.
From the sun-kissed shores of the British and US Virgin Islands to the lively streets of Trinidad and Tobago, Moko Jumbies grace festivals and celebrations, captivating audiences with their towering presence and mystical allure.
Originally symbolizing divine protection in the traditions of the Maasai people of Congo and Nigeria, Moko embodies foresight and guardianship. Through the skilled artistry of stilt-walking, these towering figures transcend earthly limitations, leaving onlookers awestruck and intrigued.
Legend has it that the Moko traversed oceans to reach Trinidad, a testament to the resilience and endurance of cultural heritage. From the trials of slavery to the jubilant freedom of Carnival, the spirit of the Moko perseveres, a testament to the enduring legacy of African descendants.
Today, Trinidad boasts two prominent Moko Jumbie bands – Watusi and Kilimanjaro – alongside smaller ensembles, each infusing their unique flair into this age-old tradition. While its origins may lie in Africa, the Moko Jumbie has become an integral part of Caribbean identity, a symbol of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.
