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Greek dance
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Greek dance is a very old tradition, being referred to by ancient authors such as Plato, Aristotle, Plutarch and Lucian.[1] There are many different styles and interpratations from all of the islands and surrounding mainland areas. Each region formed its own choreography and style to fit in with their own ways. For example, island dances have more of a "watery" flow to them, while Pontic dancing closer to Black Sea, is very sharp. There are over 4,000 traditional dances that come from all regions of Greece. There are also Pan Hellenic dances, which have been adopted throughout the Greek world. These include the tsamiko, syrtos, and kalamatianos.
Traditional Greek dancing has a primarily social (rather than sexual) function. It brings the community together at key points of the year, such as Easter, the grape harvest or patronal festivals; and at key points in the lives of individuals and families, such as weddings. For this reason, tradition frequently dictates a strict order in the arrangement of the dancers, for example, by age. Visitors tempted to join in a celebration should be careful not to violate these arrangements, in which the prestige of the individual villagers may be embodied.[2]
Greek dances are performed often in diaspora Greek communities, and among international folk dance groups.
Raftis, Alkis (1987). The World of Greek Dance. Athens: Finedawn. ISBN 960-7589-009.
- A list and description of some Greek dances
- Play or download Greek folk dance music
- The Trata and the Chapel of Saint John the Dancer, Megara
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