Takskiwin is a martial dance type found in the western High Atlas mountain range in Central Morocco. The Tiskt (or Tiskthorn) each dancer carries is richly decorated and is used to shrug their shoulders to the rhythm of timbales and flutes. These horns are used as a social tool to foster harmony and social cohesion within the community. Transmission mainly occurs informally through direct training.
At least about 20 men are required for Taskiwin's dance. The dance is theatrical performance: with gestures and rhythms, each act describes an episode in a war. The men wear powder horns and red shoulder straps, dance with rhythmic steps, and move in a frenzied manner. Taskiwine is a trance-like dance in which the shoulders vibrate to the rhythm of the tambourines. Under the orchestral instructions of Rais, the maestro of dance, the mellow tone of the flute guides the movement from one rhythm to another. While Taskiwine is predominantly a male dance, it often turns into a more casual celebration in its more relaxed moments when unmarried girls start dancing and singing. This stage of the dance gives it the chance to express itself in a free-wheeling manner, abandoning its warrior connotations.
The prose of Taskiwine is also one of its notable aspects. By using the rhythms, martial gestures, and sounds, the lyrics reflect the principles of heroism, courage, bravery, and strength. The prose also hints at the various episodes of the war by suggesting different aspects of combat: anticipation, taking positions, assault, withdrawal, and victory. This dance also demonstrates the importance given to the cohesion of the tribe. The rhythm encourages dancers to give up self-interest for the sake of the whole.
Because of several factors, the dance is now limited to a small number of villages and is in danger of disappearing. As a result of globalization, young people are now disdainful of traditional heritage in favor of modern artistic practices. As a result, several communities are no longer practicing the dance, and the remaining enthusiasts and bearers are unable to find students to whom they can pass on their know-how. The skills involved in the creation of the instruments and accessories are also in decline. Nevertheless, there is a collective awareness among some communities that they must make sure of Taskiwin's viability. In 1993, the first dedicated association was created in this region. Other villages followed suit, and several local associations are now being created. However Taskiwin’s dance is at risk of disappearing, it should be needed a new effort to preserve.
References
(https://ich.unesco.org/en/USL/taskiwin-martial-dance-of-the-western-high-atlas-01256) (https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2017/12/235640/taskiwine-amazigh-martial-dance-named-unesco-intangible-cultural-heritage)