The limbo is a dance in which participants have to cross under a stick by bending backward at the waist. The stick is lowered a notch each time every one passes under it, and those who touch the stick are eliminated from the dance.
Time Frame
The limbos dates back to the mid to late 1800s in Trinidad. It achieved mainstream popularity during the 1950s.
Cultural Significance
The version of the limbo performed in nineteenth century Trinidad was meant to symbolize slaves entering the galleys of a slave ship, or a spirit crossing over into the afterworld, or "limbo."
Misconceptions
Contrary to popular belief, the limbo did not originate in Hawaii.
Popularity in Music
Jamaican music recorded in the 1950s helped to popularize the limbo. Songs such as "Limbo" by Lord Tickler and the Calypsonians, and "Limbo" by Denzil Laing and the Wrigglers were ready-made for limbo dancing. In 1962, Chubby Checker released the song "Limbo Rock."
The Limbo Today
Today the limbo remains a popular dance, particularly at Caribbean resorts and hotels, as well as on cruise ships, where a prize is commonly awarded to the last dancer to successfully cross under the stick.
Fun Fact
According to the Universal Record Database, Sabrina Ansari set the world record for limbo dancing when she limbo-ed under a 34-inch pole in 2005.
Tags: cross under, cross under stick, limbo dancing, under stick