Dancing Spirit, Love, and War: Performing the Translocal Realities of Contemporary Fiji

Meke is a traditional Fijian dance with a complex history, but it remains a vital part of artistic expression and culture. Evadne Kelly's research provides insights into the dance form, region, and culture, and her analysis will be of interest to dance studies, postcolonial and Indigenous studies, anthropology, and performance ethnography.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2019
Publisher: University of Wisconsin Press

Meke, a captivating and traditional rhythmic dance, holds immense significance as a vital component of Fijian identity. Despite navigating a complex historical trajectory marked by colonialism, racism, censorship, and religious conflicts, meke has remained an integral part of artistic expression and cultural heritage. In her insightful exploration, Evadne Kelly delves into the intricate nuances of meke, closely examining its relationship with an ever-evolving landscape. Through meticulous close readings, Kelly traces the postcolonial reclamation process, which has granted dancers newfound political agency and a profound sense of community, uniting and dividing Fijians across the globe.

Kelly's extensive archival and ethnographic fieldwork in Fiji and Canada sheds light on a lesser-known dance form, region, and culture. Her perceptive analysis of meke offers valuable insights into dance studies, postcolonial and Indigenous studies, anthropology, and performance ethnography, as well as Pacific Island studies. By delving into the historical, social, and cultural contexts of meke, Kelly provides a rich and multifaceted perspective that enhances our understanding of this captivating dance tradition.

In conclusion, Evadne Kelly's work on meke offers a profound exploration of a dance form that has weathered the challenges of history. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Kelly contributes to our understanding of dance, culture, and the complexities of identity. Her study of meke is a valuable addition to the field of dance studies and beyond, shedding light on the enduring power of artistic expression and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780299322007