This project is part of the transversal programme “The Sahara of Cultures and Peoples”. It is intended to make an analysis of the present state of traditional songs and dances in the Drâa Valley so as to protect, promote and integrate them more satisfactorily into tourist activities, thereby improving the standard of living of the concerned local populations.
Begun in November 2004, the project proposes to :
Establish a typology of the principal songs and dances of the Drâa Valley;
List the traditional artistic groups;
Make an inventory of traditional musical instruments;
Identify the factors that threaten the future of songs and dances and propose steps for their protection;
Examine the financial contribution of artistic activity to meeting family needs;
Alert travel agencies and tourism promoters to include dance and song in the list of tourist attractions;
Make project proposals.
Several schemes have already been carried out, including in particular:
Detailed studies of five varieties of song and dance, i.e. Rasma, Daqat Assaif, Aqalal, Roqba and Ahidous. Studies of another five are nearing completion (Ahouach, Guedra, Herma, Hadra and Slisla);
Listing of artistic groups in seven rural districts;
Collection of eighty songs and identification of twelve traditional musical instruments;
Preparation of visiting cards and folders for six traditional poets and two artistic groups;
Organization of three workshops to discuss the first results obtained;
Publication of the guide entitled Trésors et merveilles de la vallée du Drâa (Treasures and wonders of the Drâa Valley) which devotes an entire chapter to the area’s principal songs and dances;
Two conventions on the promotion of song and dance are now being signed with the Provincial tourist board and the Association of caravaneers for sustainable tourism.
The Sahara of Cultures and Peoples
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