Fantasia (the Maghreb)

See also: Fantasia

The fantasia , also called “play of the Powder”, is an equestrian demonstration which one finds in various areas of North Africa.

This tradition of Berber origin - practiced in all the the Maghreb - consists in simulating a military attack of Cavalerie. These short races make contribute mainly horses barbs, light and air, carrying a Harnachement of very coloured pageantry.

The race starts with the sound of the cry " Hadar khayle! " (the horses are ready!). The goal of the test is to finish the race by drawing a rifle shot in the air, at the same moment, after having heard the command " Hadar Lamkahal! " (Has your rifles!), to hear only one detonation. It is then the intensity of the “dinghies” of the women which determines the winners.

Formerly, the fantasia animated the festivals organized at the time of the sowing and of the Moisson S. Nowadays, it is practiced primarily with a tourist aim and to maintain the folklore.

An alternative of the fantasia, without rifle shot but with lifting figures, encloses traditionally the Mariage Berbère.

External bonds

http://www.webarabic.com/
Video fantasia traditional in 1957

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