… And fond memories from Jamaicans at home & abroad

Jonkonnu is one of the oldest dance forms in Jamaica, this aspect of our culture dates back to the enslavement period. Jonkonnu was usually performed on the three holidays allowed to the enslaved Africans in the English-speaking Caribbean.

The holidays were Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. It is a form of traditional dance that blends dance, mime, and symbolism communicating the ideology and experience of the slave with roots in West African religion.

Also referred to as John Canoe by the British, the dance steps have European and English elements mixed with African traditions. 

The more popular steps of the dance include jigs and polkas, open cut out, one drop and marching tune, among many others.

The Jonkonnu band of masquerades is usually made up of characters such as the King and Queen, Belly Woman, Cow Head, Horse Head, Pitchy Patchy, red Indians and the man with the pitchfork (devil).

The costumed characters are usually accompanied by musicians who play popular traditional songs on the bamboo fife, bass and rattling drums, shakas and graters.

Modern Jonkunno bands are rarely as large as they were in the 19th century.  But, their skilful and energetic performances still manage to entertain or terrify audiences of all ages.

Fast-forward to 2022 when the only time Jamaicans get the chance to witness the amazing spectacle of the road dance is when it is featured in the ’emancipendence’ celebrations.  

As we celebrate our Independence, Our Today wanted to highlight different features of our rich culture by sharing the memories and comments some Jamaicans have about Jonkonnu.

Rohan (Jamaican living in St Mary)

“I was very excited as a young man to see the Jonkonnu parade and the different characters who comprised such. My favourite character is the man person who portrays the devil. I personally think that we should continue this tradition to educate this set of youths coming up.”

Marcia (Jamaican living in America)

“It was really scary for me because it seemed so real and demonic. I kept remembering seeing this huge person shaped like a reptile which was frightening for me. I didn’t really understand the characters. I saw the Jonkonnu in St. Mary when I was in Jamaica but I don’t think they need to bring it back.”

Alva (Jamaican living in England)

“Seeing the Jonkonnu parade was quite interesting. I would follow the parade for about half mile while they tried to scare us. I loved that they dressed in bright colours, patchy clothes looking like the animals they were imitating. It usually has a festive atmosphere with music and dance taking place. I never really had a favourite character but I would like to see it come back.”

Jacqueline Dennis (Jamaican living in St Catherine)

“It was scary, I use to run and bawl. As a child growing up I would look forward to the parade but each time I would run and hide. It still liked it even though it use to scare me I liked the tradition. My favourite character was the belly woman. I think this part of our culture should be brought back and preserved.”