Sega dance and drumming show on the beach
Sega is the traditional Creole music and dance of Mauritius. Performed on sandy shores at sunset, the Sega beach show combines hypnotic drumming (ravanne, maravanne, triangle), call-and-response singing, colourful costumes and energetic dancing. Shows are staged island‑wide at public beaches and in most resorts — often as an evening entertainment or part of a dinner package. The performance celebrates Mauritian Creole culture and the island's history, and typically invites audience participation for a lively, memorable experience.
Location
Resort and public beaches across Mauritius (e.g., Grand Baie, Flic en Flac, Belle Mare, Le Morne, Trou aux Biches), Island‑wide (various coastal towns and resort areas), Mauritius
Duration
Typically 45–90 minutes (can be 20–40 minutes for a short set or 1.5+ hours for festival/resort events)
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May to December (cooler, drier season) — evenings year‑round are suitable. Aim for sunset performances (roughly 18:00–19:30 depending on season) for the full ambience.
Pricing
Typical pricing (approximate):
- Resort guest shows: often complimentary as part of evening entertainment or included with dinner packages.
- Public beach / scheduled shows: MUR 200–1,500 per person (≈ EUR 4–35) depending on venue and whether food/drinks are included.
- Private or VIP beachfront performances: MUR 2,000–8,000+ (≈ EUR 45–185+) depending on duration and customization.
- Tips for performers: customary and appreciated (small cash tip or rounding up).
Prices vary by season, resort standard and whether transport/dinner is bundled.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Traditional instruments: ravanne (frame drum), maravanne (rattle), triangle and percussion
Authentic Creole singing and call‑and‑response vocals
Vibrant costumes and barefoot dancers performing original Sega steps
Sunset beach setting with ocean breeze and sand underfoot
Audience participation workshops or on‑stage invites for guests
Photo opportunities with performers after the show
Stories and cultural context about enslaved people, Creole heritage and island identity
Itinerary
Arrival & welcome
Check in at the resort’s beach area or public show entrance. Resorts often offer a welcome drink; public events may have small stalls for refreshments.
Short introduction
MC or band leader explains the origins of Sega, instruments on display and any safety/participation information.
Main Sega performance
Full set featuring drumming, singing and multiple dance numbers. Duration depends on the venue—resort shows may be shorter; festival sets longer.
Audience participation
Guests are invited to learn basic steps or join a segment on stage; great for photos and interaction.
Photo opportunity & meet performers
Chance to take pictures, ask about instruments and tip performers. Some resorts combine this with dinner service or night entertainment.
Safety Requirements
Watch your footing on uneven/shifting sand — wear sandals you can remove easily or go barefoot if comfortable.
Be cautious near the waterline at night; some venues are very close to waves.
Keep valuables secure—crowds and low light make small items easy to misplace.
If you have sensitivity to loud percussion, sit farther back to reduce exposure to high volume.
Respect performers’ space and follow resort/staff guidance for on‑stage participation.
If attending a public beach event, follow local health and safety advisories (weather, tides, crowd limits).
Tips
Arrive early to get a good spot and the best sunset views.
Bring a light cover or shawl for the evening breeze; coastal nights can be cooler.
Wear comfortable, beach‑appropriate clothing; avoid high heels on sand.
Bring mosquito repellent for dusk shows, especially during warmer months.
If you want a private performance (proposal, celebration), book in advance through your resort or a local events company.
Ask for a short demo/explanation of the instruments — performers are usually happy to show how the ravanne and maravanne are played.
Carry small cash for tips and souvenir purchases; tipping performers is appreciated.
Respect cultural sensitivity: Sega has roots in the enslaved Creole community — enjoy respectfully and listen to the stories behind the songs.
