The central performance practice is call and response.
The master drummer plays a short phrase, or call, and the dancers respond with a movement. The drummer may then change the phrase to invite another movement or signal a transition.
This exchange can happen between:
- Master drummer and dancers.
- Lead singer and chorus.
- One drummer and another drummer.
- Performers and the audience.
In many performances, the call is taught orally and learned through repeated listening and participation. Dancers listen for the master drummer’s signal and change their movements in response to the drum.