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Pictured from left, Felix, Augustine, Moses, and Akila.

The Omebens mentored dancer Akila Baki and drummer Moses Campbell.

According to the Omebens, the traditional dances of their native Ishan tribe were invented 1,000 years ago by hunters who had observed gorillas tumbling and flipping. The dances, which are performed only by males, have become more spectacular and competitive over time. Because the dances are closely associated with traditional religious beliefs, performances are sometimes preceded by eating glass or fire as a demonstration of faith.