Interesting Facts About Folk Dances

Getting closer to Russian culture is possible through learning folk dances. They originated long ago. People danced in circles and performed at various celebrations. Some movements have survived since ancient times.

Dances, Not Dances?
Before the 17th century, the word 'dance' didn't exist in Russia. Instead, people performed 'plyaski' – traditional folk dances. It was only in the 1600s that the term 'tanets' was introduced, shifting the vocabulary from 'plyasat' to 'tantsovat'.

Zest and Joy
Russian folk dances always express zest and joy. There's nothing vulgar or even particularly graceful about them. They are performed only to energetic music. Sharp movements and even a certain masculinity are characteristic. Therefore, this style always looks fun and evokes positive emotions.

For Warming Up
It's no coincidence that Russian folk dances are so energetic. People used to perform various tricks to keep warm during cold seasons, as major holidays occurred in winter or autumn after fieldwork ended. Thus, they warmed both body and soul. Today, folk dances are rarely performed at celebrations; they are mainly staged.

Images
Each culture embodies its own image in dance. In Japan, it was a dragon; in Russia, it was a rooster. In Siberia, people imitated the bear.

Many People
To make a dance dynamic and energetic, many participants are needed. In ancient Rus, whole crowds gathered to dance. They lit candles, wore wreaths, and sewed special costumes, similar to those used on stage today. Bright costumes and lively dances characterize the Russian people.

Raft Dances
In ancient Rus, raft dances were hugely popular. They were mostly performed at night. Wreaths with lit candles and handmade flower items were floated on water. These dances took place on Ivan Kupala Day and had a ritual purpose: young girls sought future husbands. If a man caught a wreath, he would become the girl's fiancé.

Origin
Russian folk dance originated in 907 at a feast of Oleg the Prophet. Dancers in bear costumes performed various dances, starting a tradition.

Best in the World
After the Civil War, the state funded the creation of the world's best Russian folk dance ensemble. That was when the foundation of modern Russian folk dance was laid.

Ritual Dances
As mentioned, dances in ancient Rus also had ritual significance. Many dances were performed as worship to deities.

Types
There are as many as sixteen types of Russian folk dances, each with its own name and movements. Some are performed in groups, others in pairs. Many were originally ritualistic; now they are performed to entertain audiences.

Noise
Russian folk dance is far from quiet. People sang, danced, clapped, and stomped. Clapping and stomping have survived to this day; this technique is called 'Khlopushki'.