Use of Signs and Symbols as Technique in Dayo Liadi's Selected Choreographic Creative Works

Abstract

Contemporary Dance choreography is traceable to the contemporary dance genre in Nigeria and has produced various dance techniques and new sets of dancers. Dayo Liadi is one of the leading dancers/choreographers in the Nigerian dance industry. He uses signs and symbols as a medium of communication to convey significant personal and cultural messages through his choreographic works. However, the audience hardly responds appropriately to the dance presentations and techniques due to their lack of/or knowledge of the dance code in the form of signs and symbols. Hence the need to examine the use of signs and symbols in Dayo Liadi's creative works. This paper adopted the quantitative research method involving participant observation and case study content analysis through previews of selected choreographic films of Dayo Liadi. Major findings revealed that Dayo Liadi uses traditional elements in the application of signs, symbols, movements, space, costumes, props, and music to depict mood and emotion that brings self-fulfilment and self-discovery. The paper recommends that dance practitioners and scholars should replicate the use of signs and symbols as dance techniques to boost understanding and further expansion in the cultural and dance industries in Nigeria.