Jigzie Campbell
Storytelling played a significant role in Jigzie’s formative years in rural Jamaica and as a performer she is deeply committed to authentically presenting the richness of her cultural heritage.
Frequent visits to her birthplace to study intensively with the Jamaican School of Dance have honed Jigzie’s story telling, choreographic and dancing skills.
Jigzie presents stories using actions and idioms true to the traditions she experienced as a child. “In those days people would gather outside in the moonlight to sing, play games and relate Anancy and Duppy (Ghost) stories. All ages were involved, the stories in particular offering lessons in acceptable and unacceptable social behavior,” she says.
Although modern technology has intervened and reduced the frequency and size of the gatherings, storytelling still plays a significant role in the lives of many Jamaicans and an entertaining storyteller is still revered.
Jigzie’s dramatic performances express a total awareness and understanding of her roots. She has performed extensively such productions as An Afro Carribean Experience, Akwanso Fly South, Jamaican Irie, The African Dance Troupe, most Australian main festivals and events, various TV and video presentations and ongoing workshops throughout Australian schools.