Gaba's of Turkish folk dance: Sample from Gaziantep and Kilis regions

Gaziantep and Kilis regions are very rich in tradition of folk dances. The Gabas, which are seen in these area and their neighborhood are an important part of this richness. Also, Gabas are the most spectacular dance types of these regions. Gabas are classified as Ağır Gabas, Yarım Gabas and Haleys. Ağır Gabas are just seen in a narrow region between Gaziantep and Kilis. Yarım Gabas are also seen around the neighborhood and Haleys are seen by different names in all halay regions. The context in which these games are performed offers a rare atmosphere in the practice of folk dances. The context contains a bunch of ritualistic elements from very beggining to the end. This situation is being repeated at every performance. In this study, the execution of Gabas and its enforcement contexts are examined. Structural features of the Gabas that are unmatched in other games; Gaba players performing dances, other participants and traditional drum and clarion performers were observed with the perspective of Performance Theory in the natural environment during the dance session. In addition, interviews with the source persons presented at the welding source; Performance reminiscent of shaman rituals, imitative elements observed in physical movements, practices invoking the elements of ancient Turkish culture, and extraordinary respect for the Gaba dancers of drum-zurna performers; unconventional presentations that are not encountered in other executives.