Owu - A Documentary of Ekpeye Masquerade

‘Owu’ is an Ekpeye term for ‘facial mask’, Owu dance is a vibrant masquerade performance deeply rooted in the Ekpeye culture. Performers range from energetic youths to elders, wearing carved masks paired with fabric, raffia, leg rattles, and other costumes. These masks, often worn on the face, bring different characters to life through their unique designs and movements. Owu is one of the material cultures the Ekpeye people inherited from their Benin ancestry, with Benin widely regarded as the cradle of mask carving. This heritage reflects the Ekpeyes’ ancestral connection to Benin and its rich material culture. Each performance tells a story of a past event or figure represented, with the dancer’s movements embodying the essence of the character represented by the mask, whether it’s a bird, a mammal, a person, or a mythical creature. This tangible cultural heritage of the Ekpeye people blends culture, art, tradition, and nature in a mesmerizing display. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Credits Executive Producer - Franca Umasoye Igwe Film Director: Armstrong Opulency Narrator: High Chief Robinson Olimini Photography: John Isaiah Drone Shots: Ojieme Freedom Chidi Set Manager: Agwani Livingstone Research: Innocent Ajilo Background Music : Silent Shadows by Peder B. Helland Special thanks to Dr. Edward Imo for his expertise and guidance. This documentary was supported by @Wikitongues, whose grant enabled us to bring this important story to life. Read more about these masks at www.speakekpeyefluently.com #owu #masquerades #ekpeye #documentary #ekpeyemasquerade #facialmasks #ekpeyeculture