Below is video episode on the Egungun, a visible manifestation of the spirits of departed ancestors who periodically revisit the human community for remembrance, celebration, and blessings.
Below is an article telling more about the specific beliefs and practices of the Egungun, particularly the "cult" of Egungun, which, in this case, simply means those who are appointed as experts or practitioners of this particular practice within Yoruba cosmology. This is article specifically mentions how sometimes an Egun will portray Oyá--I believe this speaks on the path of Oyá that maintains contact with the ancestors (Oyá Obinidodo).
Below are some images of and art pieces depicting the Egungun.
What role does Egungun play in Red and Brown Water? Well, the times we do see him are when Oyá runs her race and everyone is cheering her on and celebrating her. We also see Egungun during the party scene, where everyone is dancing to music, celebrating everything as everyone is coming and going, trying to understand different things (especially Oyá). So, Egungun in the play, is representative of this act of celebration and blessings.
Below is Beyonce's song, "Forward," from her album Lemonade which draws inspiration from the Egungun as they portray deceased ancestors and divination as well as Orunmila, the goddess of divination.
Dances from festivals in which the Egungun represent deceased ancestors and/or Orisha deities:
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