Different cultures have different styles of dance, each representing a unique purpose. Dance is an integral part of every culture, no matter how versatile it is, because it brings out your culture and differences. A country like Canada is a fortunate place to be in terms of the diversity and uniqueness we get to see in our daily lives. In this series we will explore various dance styles worldwide to better understand other cultures!
India:
First on the list is India. India is known for its diversity in which the country itself has 120 languages with over 270 mother tongues(regional languages depending on the area). With so many different languages and festivals come several dances which can either be folk-based or classical. The 8 classical dance styles in India are Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Odissi, Manipuri, and Sattriya. Classical dances in India are a way of depicting stories from ancient history as well as displaying ideas from scriptures and holy books. Furthermore, India is well known for its amazing folk dances, including: Garba, Bhangra, Giddha, Dandiya, Ghoomar, Lavani, and Bihu. Theyyam, Kunitha, etc. Altogether, each of the distinct dance styles has a unique purpose, either through narrating oral stories or representing joy towards religion or festivities.
Spain:
Spain is not only known for its popular tourism but also has unique dance styles which have developed over the years through history. The most common dance originating from Spain is Flamenco. Flamecco is a dance, song, and instrumental based on guitar tunes. There are too many specific styles to elaborate on; however, the essence of flamenco lies in: Soleá, Bulerías, Alegrías, Seguiriyas, Tangos, Fandangos, and Sevillana (all are subcategories). Other traditional dances include Sardana- a dance done at a celebration’s hence honouring the Catalan identity. Another Spanish dance is the “Paso doble,” which is centered around fast-paced rhythmic music and the movement of a bullfight replicated in pairs (used in ballroom dances). If I were to describe the dance theme of Spain, it would involve expressing energy and vibrancy.
Japan:
Japan is an unheard gem when it comes to expressing diversity and culture through dance. The sacred dances done in Japan are based on representing the Japanese mythologies of gods. One well-known sacred dance was the Kagura, in which people would entertain the gods with speedy movement, colorful costumes and fascinating storylines. In addition to sacred dance, Japan has multiple folk dances originating from foreign influences and oral traditions. Bon Odori is a famous dance originally performed for ancestral spirits and the Buddhist religion. Bon Odori is a dance often performed around a Yagura (stage) with drums and regional songs. Lastly, a popular traditional dance in Japan is Kabuki. Kabuki is extremely stylized in which emphasizes drama and makeup, and costume to express stories.
Brazil:
Next up on the list is Brazil. Brazil is a country famous for its soccer and carnivals; however, another aspect of Brazilian culture is the dance. Samba is the common dance style in Brazil which became popular in Western nations around the early 1900s. Samba is a dance suitable for ballrooms however, its older African origins were done in groups where everyone would perform in a circle. The dance itself consists of simple back and forth motion with slight tilts according to the rhythm. Secondly, a folk dance called Carimbo is done in the state of Para. Carimbo is an intricate dance which consists of both male and female, usually with the female using her skirt to cover the other performer. The dance is influenced by Portuguese, African and European influences. Here is a list of some other distinct dance styles that should be appreciated as well: Jongo, Carioca Funk, Bumba Meu Boi, Forro, Carimbó, Lundu, Xote, Baião, etc.
Stay tuned for the next few articles where we will discover more about different dances from around the world!
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