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Essay on Folk Dance

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100 Words Essay on Folk Dance

What is folk dance.

Folk dance is a type of dance that people from a certain area or country have been doing for a long time. It is usually passed down from older to younger people. These dances show the culture, stories, and history of the people who created them.

Types of Folk Dances

There are many kinds of folk dances. Each country has its own special dances. For example, India has the Bhangra, and Ireland has the Jig. These dances can be for one person, couples, or big groups.

Costumes and Music

In folk dances, dancers often wear colorful clothes that match their dance’s history. The music they dance to is also special and has traditional instruments.

Folk Dances Today

Today, people still enjoy folk dances. They perform them at festivals, schools, and family events. Folk dances help people remember their roots and bring communities together.

250 Words Essay on Folk Dance

What is folk dance.

There are many kinds of folk dances. Each country has its own styles. For example, the United States has square dancing, India has bhangra, and Ireland has jigs. These dances can be for one person, couples, or big groups.

Costumes and music are important in folk dance. Dancers wear special clothes that match their culture. The music also comes from the same culture and uses traditional instruments. This makes the dance feel authentic and helps tell the story of the people.

Learning Folk Dance

People learn folk dance in different ways. Often, older members of a community teach the young. Sometimes, schools have folk dance classes. These dances are not just for watching but also for joining in. It is a way to have fun and keep the culture alive.

Why Folk Dance Matters

Folk dance is important because it keeps a culture’s history alive. It brings people together and helps them remember their roots. Also, it teaches others about different ways of life. Folk dance is not just about steps and music; it’s about sharing stories and traditions.

500 Words Essay on Folk Dance

Folk dance is a type of dance that is a part of the traditions of a group of people or a country. It is often passed down from one generation to the next. Each country or region has its own unique folk dance that tells a story or shows what life is like in that place. These dances are not just for fun; they are a way for people to keep their culture alive and share it with others.

The Music and Steps

Costumes and instruments.

When people perform folk dances, they often wear special clothes that are part of their culture. These costumes can be colorful, with different patterns, and sometimes they tell a story or show the history of the place. The instruments used for the music can be traditional ones like drums, flutes, or string instruments that have special sounds that go well with the dance.

Folk Dances Around the World

Every part of the world has its own folk dances. For example, in India, there is a dance called Bhangra that is full of energy and is done at celebrations. In Russia, there is a dance called Kalinka that involves fast footwork. In the United States, square dance is a popular folk dance where people follow calls and dance in a square pattern.

Learning and Sharing Folk Dances

The importance of folk dance.

Folk dance is important because it helps people remember their history and traditions. It brings people together and helps them feel proud of where they come from. When people from different cultures share their folk dances, it helps everyone understand and respect each other better.

To sum up, folk dance is a beautiful part of culture that is full of life, color, and history. It is a way for people to express themselves and connect with their roots. Whether it is the lively steps of a dance from Mexico or the graceful moves of a dance from China, folk dances are a treasure that we should keep alive and enjoy.

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  • Introduction

What makes a dance a folk dance?

Operational definitions.

  • Hawaiian dance
  • Korean dance
  • European “character” dance
  • John Playford and the preservation of dance
  • Johann Gottfried von Herder and the idea of the folk
  • William John Thoms and folkloristics
  • Cecil Sharp and the promotion of folk dance
  • Béla Bartók and ethnographic scholarship
  • Ljubica Janković and Danica Janković and modern scholarship
  • Elizabeth Burchenal
  • Mary Wood Hinman
  • The settlement movement
  • The International Folk Dance movement
  • Folk dance in the United States
  • Israeli folk dancing
  • Métis dance
  • Supporting nationalism
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  • Dancing for enlightenment
  • Who owns the dance?

Pieter Bruegel the Elder: Peasant Dance

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Pieter Bruegel the Elder: Peasant Dance

folk dance , generally, a type of dance that is a vernacular , usually recreational, expression of a past or present culture . The term folk dance was accepted until the mid-20th century. Then this and other categories of dance were questioned and their distinctions became subject to debate.

For the purposes of this article, the designation folk dance will be used for convenience, without the extended discussion of terms that a more scholarly treatment would require. It is important, however, to examine other ways to write and think about the types of dances that might be characterized as traditional. It is also essential to note that people in many non-Western cultures do not themselves describe any activity as dance in the way that English speakers do. This article examines possible ways to look at and define folk dance, how various groups might conceive of their dances, and how the study of folk dance was born and developed. See also dance , for a general treatment of dance as an art form. For further treatment of the folk arts, see folk music ; folklore ; folk literature ; folk art .

Defining folk dance

Logically speaking, the adjective folk should modify the noun dance to indicate a certain kind of dance and dancing and perhaps the style or some other distinguishing feature of the dance or performance. It should also imply who the performers are. However, the term folk dance , which has been in common use since the late 19th century, along with its parent term folklore , which was coined in 1846, is not as descriptive or uncontroversial as it might seem. Much of the problem lies in the attitudes and purposes of early scholars and their audience.

Usually, the designation folk was used by those who did not consider themselves to belong to the folk and were confident that they knew which other people were the folk. Some of these observers described folk communities with condescension as peasants, simple or quaint people who were illiterate and unselfconscious, carrying on supposedly unsophisticated and ancient traditions. Such writers concluded that “true” folk dances were created anonymously and transmitted from person to person. Many scholars of the late 19th and early 20th centuries postulated a sort of Darwinian social evolution that passed from imagined beginnings through existing folk dances to arrive at modern recreational dances. This attitude, which fell out of favour by the 1930s, was part of a larger worldview that sometimes went so far as to place certain other groups of people farther down the human evolutionary tree from themselves and their peers.

write an essay about your insights on folk dance

Not surprisingly, a backlash developed, and since the middle of the 20th century the word folk has often been avoided because of the condescending attitude its use is thought to represent. Many cultural groups around the world demanded that their performing arts not be characterized by the term. Thus, some archives and organizations found it expedient to change the word folk to traditional in their names. For example, in the 1960s the Folk Music Archives at Indiana University was renamed Archives of Traditional Music. Similarly, in 1980 the International Folk Music Council, a nonprofit organization supported by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), changed its name to International Council for Traditional Music. Its study section on dance broadened in scope from folk dance to ethnochoreology, the study of all dance forms in a culture .

Although many academics in the 21st century avoid any use of the word folk because of its past misuse and possible offensiveness, those who do accept the term often mean “traditional,” “authentic,” or “from olden times.” Those who want to avoid implying that culture is static may refuse to use any such categorical term.

The descriptors traditional and authentic are problematic too when applied to folk dances that are self-consciously developed, revived, and restaged for public display in order to reinforce a national identity, to attract tourists, or both. Examples include dances performed by the Bayanihan Philippine National Folk Dance Company and the numerous folklórico groups from Mexico. Neither does the word traditional comfortably identify dances that are transplanted from one context to another, such as the European folk dances performed by the Matachines Society of the Yaqui Indians of southern Arizona in the United States and Sonora, Mexico. Nor do these terms include the fusions of folk dances from two or more cultures into new forms that represent newly established communities, such as the multicultural Israeli folk dances and the fused traditions of the Métis of Canada. These are discussed below.

Of major significance, a point that is critical to the understanding of folk dance is the following fact: folk dance is not a universal genre of dance. When folk dances are compared from one culture to another, they have in common no universal movement, figure, form, style , or function. Neither does a specific movement, figure, form, style, or function identify a dance as a folk dance. The simplest approach to definition might be to say that folk dances are those dances identified with and performed by folk dancers. By the same reasoning, folk dancers are those persons who perform folk dances.

Yet these circular definitions are inadequate. Some persons who perform what outsiders define as folk dances do not themselves identify their dances as folk dances. And some persons who perform such dances do not identity themselves as folk dancers. Others reject the word folk entirely, as having nothing to do with who they are or what dances they do.

The matachines dances are a good example of how fluid the definitions of folk dance and folk dancers are. The Yaqui Indian Matachines Society is a group in northern Mexico and southern Arizona whose members continue to observe a sacred vow to dance their devotions for the Virgin Mary with medieval European folk dances taught to them after 1617 by Jesuit padres. These Yaqui do not think of their dances as folk dances, nor do they think of themselves as folk dancers, although persons from the outside readily make those assignments. Although the origins of the matachines dances of other parts of the Americas are similar, the dances themselves are different. To complicate matters further, in parts of Europe there are matachines folk dance groups that have nothing in common with the Yaqui society or the other American groups. What the dances are, who performs them, and what insiders and outsiders call the dances and the dancers—all these designations vary, although the dances are known by the same name.

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Folk Dances and Their Impact on The Philippine Culture-Based Education

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2022, Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

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History The indigenous peoples (IPs) constitute a significant segment of the Philippine society. As defined by the Indigenous Peoples Rights Acts (IPRA), IPs are those groups of homogenous societies identified by self-ascription, who continually lived as organized communities on communally bounded and defined territories which they have occupied since time immemorial, sharing bonds of language, customs, traditions and who become historically differentiated from the majority of the Filipinos (Section 3, Article II, RA 8371). The Spaniards who were the first outsiders to describe the Blaan thought that their name was derived from their supposed place of origin, the region around the Lake Buluan in Central Mindanao. The Spanish missionaries who were the first to observe the various non-Mulsim groups further noted that the Blaan settlements were widely dispersed throughout Mindanao. Then as now, the largest concentrations of Blaan are found in central and southern Mindanao. Most of the Blaan settlements are found in the Allah and Koronadal valleys but considerable numbers live in the mountains west of the Davao Gulf from Balutakay and all the way down to the bay of Sarangani including two islands of Balut and Tumanao at the entrance of this Bay. West of Malalag in the present Davao Del Sur Province, the Blaan inhabit the mountains and the grassy plains but are kept from occupying the coasts by a stretch of homesteads traditionally owned by the Tagakaolos who are mainly riverine dwellers as their name implies. Between the districts of Davao and the Cotabato, the Blaan predominate as far back as the American period in the 1900s (Fay Cooper-Cole, 1913). West of Sarangani Bay, the Blaans live in close association with the Tboli with whom they intermarry. East of the Bay, intermarriages with Maguindanaos also go back to several centuries which is why influences from both groups are evident in the Blaan culture. The wonder is that the Blaan identity has remained distinct from both the Tbolis and the Maguindanaos and the today Blaan and the Blaan-speaking peoples are one of the most numerous indigenous groups of Mindanao (Gloria, H.K, Carino, J.L., et.al. 2006). The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) also noted that although many of the Blaan adopted the ways of modern Filipino and have been integrated into the main body politic, the Blaan still believe and practice indigenous rituals and customs. Blaan's religious and traditional beliefs, practices and rituals have evolved out of our relationship with our land, forest and the diversity of resources therein. The interconnectivity of these factors plays important role not only in the economic aspect of our life, but also in the development of our culture and religion, our socio-political systems and our community in general.

write an essay about your insights on folk dance

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Philippine folk dances can be dated back as early as the pre-colonial period which inherited by our forefathers and passed through several generations of Filipinos. These traditional dances are considered treasures of our homeland for they depict the humble beginnings of our native countrymen and serve as a symbol of national identity. The study utilized focused ethnography and was limited on the documentation of the ethnic dance of Ayta Ambala's tribe, their cultural values along with its cultural heritage situated at Barangay Tubo-Tubo, Dinalupihan, Bataan which were considered unpublished, especially their respective dance patterns or movements. There were ten (10) informants involved in the study. Five (5) were key informants (KIs) who represent the emic perspective while five (5) were general informants (GIs) who represent the etic perspective of the paper. Findings revealed that Dances of Ayta Ambala include: Courtship (Sayaw Magligaw), Ceremonial (Sayaw Talipe), and Occupational (Sayaw Pangangaho). The said dances reflect different activities that are commong among the tribe. It also includes the historical background, costume, time signature, props, structural formation, dance steps, and figures. Although the values are not directly presented, these are still manifesting through the themes of their dances. Included in the cultural values are bravery, respect, and gratitude which are also part of the embodiment of different dances of Ayta Ambala. As observed, the other two emerging themes are also connected to the cultural heritage of Ayta Ambala. This means, their dances mirror their surroundings, their daily activities, and their identity as tribes. The emerging themes on cultural heritage are religious beliefs, courtships, and livelihood.

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The Philippines is culturally rich in diversity and ethnicity among indigenous peoples (IPs), embracing more than a hundred divergent ethno-linguistic groups with known specific identity, language, socio-political systems, and practices. It has always been the tangible and intangible beliefs and culture of Indigenous peoples, and the physical aspects of the environment, as well as the weather, is controlled by the spirits. The Blaan tribe is one of the authentic indigenous tribes in the Philippines and is known to possess a great cultural heritage. The profiling of the preserved cultural heritage was done through in-depth focus group discussion, audio recording, and the gathering of important cultural documents. The belief system, indigenous knowledge systems and practices, dispute settlements, traditional land resource use and management, tribal birth and healing practices, rites and ceremonies, entertainments, traditional clothing and games. In this study, the Blaan tribe from Sitio Atmurok, Bulol Salo, was able to manifest the preservation of their cultural practices and indigenous traditions. The study used a qualitative descriptive research design and a purposive sampling strategy, with data collected from elderly and representative respondents through structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs). During the interview, there was also a recording. The descriptive research approach was used for this study because it allowed the researcher to get first-hand knowledge of the Blaan tribe's experiences and how they influenced their culture and religious growth. The researcher was able to give a broad overview of the B'laan Tribe's traditional beliefs and practices in Sitio Atmurok, Bulol Salo, Kiblawan, Davao Del Sur, Philippines. Despite the introduction of various religions into the tribes, general customs, notably belief systems, have been preserved. This research would be recommended to the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples so that they may witness the beauty of general customs, especially belief systems that have survived despite the absorption of other faiths into the tribes.

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National Identity in Philippine Folk Dance: Changing Focus from the Cariñosa to Tinikling

  • First Online: 01 January 2022

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  • Declan Patrick 4  

Part of the book series: Palgrave Macmillan Memory Studies ((PMMS))

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Dance can be thought of as a marker of identity: part of the range of cultural practices that produce and define how we see ourselves. In the Philippines, arguments over what constitutes ‘Filipine-ness’ include the dance that represents the nation. In an arena where cultural practices jostle with each other for attention and ways of remembering the past are clearly delineated, the nostalgic, politicised imaginings of the people stand in contrast to the postcolonial revisionist academic stance.

This book chapter explores the change of the national dance, linking this to the changing political relationships with Spain and a shared, remembered past. This shift demonstrates a change from colonial subject to a type of independence, a process that has been much more complicated in its approach to representation.

The two main dances considered are the Cariñosa and Tinikling. Both of these are highly political choices that reveal specific representational directions—one as a dance that has its origins in Spain, and has since been ‘Filipinized’, and the other as an attempt to work into a more Asian identity.

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Patrick, D. (2021). National Identity in Philippine Folk Dance: Changing Focus from the Cariñosa to Tinikling. In: Parfitt, C. (eds) Cultural Memory and Popular Dance. Palgrave Macmillan Memory Studies. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-71083-5_10

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The Importance of Preserving Folk Dance for Future Generations

Mar 21, 2023

Julie Blume

write an essay about your insights on folk dance

As the world rapidly modernizes, traditional cultural practices, including folk dance, are at risk of getting lost in the pages of history. Folk dance has been an integral part of cultures worldwide, connecting people to their traditions and roots. Yet, many societies are gradually letting go of this age-old dance form. It is perplexing to see that an essential aspect of cultural heritage is gradually disappearing. The question arises: Why is it so crucial to preserve folk dance? What impact does it have on our culture and society? In this article, we will explore the importance of preserving folk dance for future generations and how we can keep it alive.

Why is Folk Dance Important?

Why Is Folk Dance Important?

Connection to Culture

Folk dance is an integral part of a culture, and it plays an essential role in connecting people to their roots. The dance steps, costumes, instruments, and rhythms used in folk dances reflect the unique identity of a particular culture or region. In essence, it reflects the traditions and customs of people, their history, and their way of life.

The fascinating symbolism of folk dance conveys deeper meanings and values, a reflection of the culture’s beliefs and perception of the world. It passes on from generation to generation and helps preserve the traditions, language, and customs that characterize a particular community.

Aside from being a source of entertainment, folk dance serves as a way for people to express their joy, sadness, hopes, and dreams. It is an avenue for people to connect with others on a deeper level and forge strong bonds that last a lifetime. Dancing together creates a sense of unity and belongingness, fostering a community that values cooperation and harmony.

Folk dance costumes play a massive role in establishing a connection to cultural roots. Traditional attire varies from place to place and from one dance style to another. It often features vibrant colors and intricate patterns that reflect the artistry and celebration of life. The costumes make the dancers feel a deep sense of pride in their cultural identity and enable them to showcase their customs and values for others to appreciate.

Folk dance is a powerful means of connecting people to their cultural heritage. It helps reinforce a shared identity and fosters appreciation for the diversity and uniqueness of different cultures. It is a beautiful expression of people’s way of life, and its preservation is critical to safeguarding the cultural richness of humanity for generations to come.

Preservation of History

The preservation of history is another crucial reason for the importance of folk dance. Through folk dance, we are able to connect with our ancestors and understand their way of living. The dance steps and movements have been passed down from generation to generation, keeping alive the traditions and culture of our communities.

Through folk dance, we can learn about the history of a particular region or country. For example, the traditional dance style of the Flamenco in Spain tells the story of the Spanish Gypsies and their struggles. Similarly, the Hula dance in Hawaii tells the stories of the Hawaiian people and their way of life.

To further illustrate, let’s take a look at some examples of how folk dance has preserved history:

Folk DanceHistory Preserved
Mariachi Dance in MexicoPreserves the history of Mexican Independence
Ballet Folklorico in MexicoPreserves the history of Mexico’s indigenous people
Kathak in IndiaPreserves the history of the Mughal Empire in India

Through these dances, we can explore the history of a particular community and learn about the traditions and customs of their ancestors. This preservation of history is crucial in maintaining cultural diversity and in preventing the loss of knowledge and traditions that are valuable to our heritage.

Without the preservation of folk dance, we risk losing the history of our communities and the stories of our ancestors. It is important to recognize the significance of folk dance in keeping our history alive and passing it down to future generations.

Physical and Mental Health Benefits

Folk dance shouldn’t be viewed only as a cultural expression or an entertaining activity, it’s also beneficial for physical and mental well-being. The physical demands of different folk dance styles vary, but all require a combination of coordination, strength, flexibility and endurance. Folk dance is a great way to get a cardiovascular workout, without running on a treadmill for hours. Folk dancing is much more fun and social than visiting a gym.

According to research, dancing has multiple benefits for mental health . It increases the levels of endorphins – neurotransmitters that create feelings of happiness and euphoria. This is especially important nowadays, when people are facing stress, depression and anxiety. Participating in folk dance provides a maximal release of endorphins helping to reduce stress levels and promote a positive brain feeling. Additionally, dancing in groups fosters social connection and decreases loneliness.

Here are some of the key physical and mental health benefits of participating in folk dance:

Improves cardiovascular healthReduces stress levels
Increases muscle strength and enduranceBoosts mood and energy
Enhances flexibility and balanceInhibits negative thoughts
Burns calories and helps weight lossIncreases self-esteem and confidence
Decreases the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritisProvides a sense of belonging and social connection

Incorporating different folk dance styles in your routine can have a significant impact on your physical and mental health. Whether it’s the lively and energetic Bulgarian dance, the moderate and flowing Hungarian Csango or the graceful and expressive Indian Bharatanatyam, there is a folk dance style for everyone. Check out our article on folk dance styles comparison to get started.

Experiencing the benefits of folk dance can come from different forms, from dancing in a circle (find more about this on our article dancing in circle folk dance ) to attending big folk dance events and festivals (read more about them at popular folk dance events, gatherings and festivals ). It is worth exploring its cultural richness and its role in music, as well as its rhythms and instruments by looking at our article the role of music in folk dance and its instruments and rhythms .

The Dangers of Losing Folk Dance

The Dangers Of Losing Folk Dance

Loss of Cultural Identity

When folk dances fade away, so does a part of a community’s identity. Cultural identity is what sets one group of people apart from another, and it encompasses everything from food to language, beliefs, and traditions. Folk dances are a crucial component of cultural identity as they communicate the essence of a community through movement and music. Without these dances, future generations could miss out on an opportunity to connect with their cultural roots and learn about their cultural heritage.

Aside from that, the loss of cultural identity can lead to a decline in social interactions within a community. Traditional dances are often performed at social events where people come together, celebrate their customs, and create new memories. If the dances and the events that accompany them disappear, so do the opportunities for people to come together and interact with one another. This can lead to a breakdown in social cohesion, which can have negative consequences for community members.

Losing cultural identity can also perpetuate negative stereotypes and biases. When people are not informed about a group’s cultural practices, they may rely on inaccurate, generalized assumptions. This can create misunderstandings and harmful beliefs that contribute to discrimination and intolerance.

Thus, preserving folk dance is crucial, not only for promoting cultural identity but also to combat harmful stereotypes and biases that come with the loss of cultural identity.

Forgetfulness of History

One of the dangers of losing folk dance is the forgetfulness of history. By neglecting the importance of preserving our traditional dances, we risk losing a significant part of our cultural heritage. Folk dances are often connected to specific events, rituals, and stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. They are a rich source of historical information and provide a window into the past.

Examples of Historical Information:

DanceHistorical Information
HoraOriginally danced by Romanian shepherds to celebrate the changing of the seasons and mark the end of the agricultural cycle. It was also performed during weddings and other special occasions.
KathakAn ancient Indian dance form that was originally performed in temples as a form of storytelling. It later evolved to become a popular form of entertainment in the Mughal courts.
Irish Step DancingThe dance form evolved from traditional Irish dances that were performed as part of social gatherings and celebrations. It was also used as a way to express political and cultural identity during periods of political unrest.

Losing these dances means that we may also lose the stories and traditions associated with them. This can lead to a sense of disconnect among younger generations, who may not fully understand or appreciate their cultural heritage. By preserving folk dance, we can ensure that the history and stories behind them are not forgotten, and we can pass them on to future generations.

Mental and Physical Health Impacts

Participating in folk dance has astonishing benefits for both mental and physical health. Let’s look at some of them:

  • Boosts cognitive function: Folk dance involves learning and memorizing complex sequences of steps, which helps improve cognitive function and memory retention.
  • Reduces stress: Dancing for an extended period can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. The release of endorphins, also known as “feel-good” chemicals, provides a natural high and aids in stress reduction.
  • Improves physical health: Folk dance is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that helps increase overall physical fitness. It can also improve flexibility, endurance, and balance.
  • Builds social connections: Participating in folk dance is a great way to build social connections and make new friends. It fosters a sense of community and strengthens interpersonal relationships.
  • Enhances mood: Dancing is an enjoyable physical activity that can boost mood and energy levels. It’s an excellent way to combat depression and anxiety while promoting happiness and joy.

Folk dance offers a plethora of benefits that extend beyond the scope of cultural preservation. It’s a healthy activity that promotes mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

How to Keep Folk Dance Alive

As we have already discussed the significance of folk dance, it’s important to find ways to keep these traditions alive. The survival of folk dance is crucial for the preservation of cultural identity, history, and physical and mental well-being. However, the question arises: what steps can we take to ensure that folk dance is passed on to future generations? To answer this, we must consider the various approaches that can help us in our endeavor of keeping this traditional art form alive. This section will delve into some of the most effective methods for achieving this goal.

Teach and Encourage Younger Generations

One of the best ways to keep folk dance alive is to teach and encourage younger generations to participate in it. Here are some effective strategies to achieve this goal:

  • Create Youth Programs: It is essential to create youth programs that encourage the participation of young people in folk dance. These programs can be organized in schools, community centers, and other places where young people gather.
  • Collaborate with Schools: Collaborating with schools is another effective way to promote folk dance among younger generations. Schools can organize events, workshops, and assemblies to expose students to different cultural traditions, including folk dance.
  • Engage Parents: Parents play an essential role in encouraging their children to participate in folk dance. By organizing family events, workshops, and classes, parents can help their children learn about different cultures while also promoting physical activity.
  • Use Social Media: Social media is a powerful tool that can be used to promote folk dance among younger generations. By creating engaging and informative content, such as videos, photos, and articles, folk dance enthusiasts can reach a wider audience and inspire more young people to get involved.
  • Organize Competitions and Festivals: Competitions and festivals are great ways to engage younger generations in folk dance. By organizing these events, young people can showcase their skills, learn from experienced performers, and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for folk dance.

By adopting these strategies, folk dance enthusiasts can inspire and encourage younger generations to learn about and participate in this rich cultural tradition. By passing on these traditions to future generations, we can ensure that folk dance remains an integral part of our cultural heritage for years to come.

Participation in Folk Dance Events

One effective way to keep folk dance traditions alive is through participation in folk dance events . These events provide opportunities for individuals to connect with their culture and community.

There are a variety of events that celebrate folk dance traditions, such as cultural festivals, community gatherings, and performance showcases. These events are often open to the public and serve as a platform for individuals to showcase their skills and knowledge of their traditional folk dances.

By attending these events, individuals can witness the beauty and significance of folk dance. Participation in these events allows individuals to engage with others who share a common passion for their culture and traditions. This fosters a sense of belonging and can inspire individuals to continue practicing and passing down these dance traditions to future generations.

Participation in folk dance events can also help to strengthen the economy in local communities. Many of these events bring in tourists and generate revenue for small businesses. As a result, these events have the potential to provide economic benefits while also preserving cultural traditions.

Below is a table that lists different types of folk dance events:

Type of EventDescription
Cultural FestivalsEvents that celebrate cultural traditions through various forms of art and performance, including folk dance
Community GatheringsLocal events where individuals from the same community come together to participate in various activities, including folk dancing
Performance ShowcasesEvents where individuals or groups perform traditional folk dances on stage for an audience
Dance WorkshopsStructured events where individuals can learn and practice specific traditional folk dances with a trained instructor

Participation in these events is an important step towards preserving folk dance traditions for future generations. It allows individuals to connect with their culture and community and can inspire them to continue practicing and sharing these traditions. Additionally, supporting these events can have economic benefits for local communities while also celebrating the beauty and significance of folk dance.

Preservation Through Recordings and Documentaries

One crucial way to keep folk dance alive is through preservation via recordings and documentaries. Such recordings and documentaries are essential in preserving folk traditions since they capture the essence of the dance, its origins, and its evolution over time.

Recordings: One way to preserve dance forms is to make high-quality recordings of performances or workshops that can be made available to a wider audience. These recordings will serve as a resource for future generations, providing them with an opportunity to learn the various folk dances that were once prevalent but may now be lost.

Documentaries: Documentaries on folk dance can be an insightful and informative way to preserve dance traditions for the future. These documentaries could highlight the dance’s cultural significance, its history, and its evolution. They can be a major source of inspiration for present and future generations, motivating them to embrace their cultural and traditional heritage.

Cultural Artifacts: Recordings and documentaries will also serve as cultural artifacts that future generations can use to understand their cultural history. They provide a glimpse into the dance styles of past generations and allow us to understand how the art form has evolved over time.

Public Accessibility: Making these recordings and documentaries widely accessible is also essential in preserving folk dance. By digitizing them and making them available online or in physical copies, we ensure that anyone who is interested can access them. This can be especially beneficial in areas where access to live performances may be limited.

Conclusion: Preservation through recordings and documentaries is an essential way of keeping folk dance alive for future generations. They serve as cultural artifacts that help us understand our history and cultural heritage while also providing a source of inspiration for present and future generations. Making these resources accessible to everyone is vital to ensure that the culture of folk dance is not lost over time.

Increased Government Funding and Support

One of the key ways to keep traditions alive is through increased government funding and support . Governments can play a crucial role in preserving folk dance by providing financial aid and other resources.

Here are some ways that increased government funding and support can help in preserving folk dance:

BenefitsExplanation
Organizing Folk Dance FestivalsThe government can sponsor and organize folk dance festivals, which can attract a larger audience and provide more exposure to traditional folk dances.
Supporting Dance Schools and TeachersThe government can provide financial assistance to dance schools and teachers, who are often struggling to keep their programs running due to a lack of resources.
Preserving Folk Dance ArchivesThe government can allocate funds towards creating archives dedicated to preserving traditional folk dances. This can ensure that future generations have access to the history and origins of these dances.
Offering Grants and ScholarshipsThe government can offer grants and scholarships to individuals and organizations that are dedicated to preserving folk dance. This can give much-needed financial support to those who are working to keep these traditions alive.

The increased government support can play a crucial role in preserving and promoting traditional folk dances, which are an important part of our cultural heritage. By providing financial assistance and other resources, governments can help ensure that future generations will have access to the rich history and beauty of these dances.

In conclusion, the importance of preserving folk dance for future generations cannot be overstated. Through its connection to culture and preservation of history, as well as its physical and mental health benefits, folk dance holds immense value for individuals and communities alike. However, the dangers of losing folk dance, such as the loss of cultural identity and forgetfulness of history, highlight the need for action to keep these traditions alive.

Fortunately, there are several ways to keep folk dance alive. Teaching and encouraging younger generations, participating in folk dance events, and preserving through recordings and documentaries are all effective methods. Additionally, increased government funding and support can provide the necessary resources for preserving and promoting folk dance.

By taking action to preserve folk dance, we can ensure that future generations have access to this vital part of our cultural heritage. Let us appreciate and value these traditions, and work towards keeping them alive for years to come.

Preguntas frecuentes

Why is folk dance important for cultural preservation.

Folk dance is important for cultural preservation because it represents a significant part of a community’s heritage and traditions.

What physical and mental health benefits can be gained from folk dance?

Folk dance provides physical exercise, social connections, and stress relief, and can improve coordination, balance, and flexibility.

What is the impact of losing folk dance on cultural identity?

The loss of folk dance can lead to the fragmentation of cultural identity and the erosion of cultural heritage.

How can younger generations be encouraged to participate in folk dance?

Younger generations can be encouraged to participate in folk dance through community outreach, education programs, and special events that make the dance form accessible and relevant.

What is the role of government support in preserving folk dance?

Government support can provide funding for community events and performance spaces, as well as support for education programs and recordings that document and preserve folk dance.

How can folk dance be recorded and preserved for future generations?

Folk dance can be recorded and preserved through documentaries, video recordings, and audio recordings that document the dance form and its history.

What are some of the mental and physical health impacts of losing folk dance?

Losing folk dance can lead to a weakening of social connections, loss of physical exercise, and decreased mental stimulation, leading to an overall decline in physical and mental well-being.

What are some examples of traditional folk dances from around the world?

Examples of traditional folk dances include the Hora from Romania, the Flamenco from Spain, the Polka from Poland and the Czech Republic, and the Irish Jig from Ireland.

Can anyone participate in folk dance, regardless of age or ability?

Yes, anyone can participate in folk dance, regardless of age or ability. There are many different types of folk dances suited for people of all ages and levels of physical ability.

What is the cultural significance of dance costumes in folk dance performances?

Dance costumes in folk dance performances often reflect the cultural heritage of the community, incorporating traditional fabrics, colors, and designs into the costumes worn by dancers.

Referencias

  • Folk dancing keeps the country alive with culture | Lifestyle
  • Mexican folk dance – Wikipedia

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Preserving Cultural Heritage: Folk Dances Around the World

Folk dances are a vibrant tapestry that weaves together the rich cultural heritage of communities worldwide. Passed down through generations, these traditional dances serve as living testimonies to the history, values, and beliefs of diverse societies. This essay celebrates the significance of folk dances in preserving cultural heritage, exploring how these dances continue to be cherished and performed as an essential link to the past.

Folk dances are deeply rooted in the customs and traditions of various regions and ethnic groups. Each dance bears the unique imprint of the community it represents, showcasing distinctive costumes, movements, and musical accompaniments that embody the spirit of the people. Folk dances often reflect the daily activities, rituals, and celebrations of the community, providing valuable insights into their way of life.

These dances serve as a means of passing down cultural knowledge from one generation to the next. Families and communities come together during festivals, weddings, and other social gatherings to perform folk dances, ensuring that the traditions are preserved and cherished. The act of learning and performing these dances fosters a sense of belonging and identity, creating a strong bond between individuals and their cultural roots.

Folk dances also contribute to the collective memory of a community. As people come together to perform these dances, they collectively remember and celebrate their shared history. These dances may recount historical events, depict mythical stories, or simply celebrate the joys and challenges of everyday life. In this way, folk dances become an integral part of a community's narrative, forging a connection between the past, present, and future.

Furthermore, folk dances are often a celebration of diversity within a culture. Many regions boast a multitude of folk dances, each associated with different ethnic or linguistic groups. These dances serve as a testament to the cultural mosaic of the area, promoting inclusivity and understanding among diverse communities.

In today's globalized world, folk dances play a vital role in preserving cultural identity and combating cultural homogenization. As societies become more interconnected, there is a risk of traditional practices being overshadowed by dominant global influences. Folk dances act as a bulwark against cultural erosion, offering a space for communities to celebrate their unique heritage and resist cultural assimilation.

Preserving and promoting folk dances also contribute to the tourism industry, allowing communities to share their cultural richness with the world. Tourists are drawn to experience these authentic expressions of culture, providing economic opportunities for local communities and encouraging them to continue passing down their traditions.

Folk dance festivals and competitions have gained popularity worldwide, becoming platforms for cultural exchange and celebration. These events not only provide opportunities for folk dancers to showcase their talents but also allow people from diverse backgrounds to appreciate and learn from one another's cultural heritage.

In conclusion, folk dances stand as living treasures that uphold the cultural heritage of communities worldwide. As windows to the past, these dances offer insights into the customs, history, and values of diverse societies. By passing down these traditions from one generation to the next, communities forge a strong sense of identity and belonging. As we celebrate and preserve the rich tapestry of folk dances, we recognize their indispensable role in safeguarding cultural diversity and promoting a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.

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Digitization and visualization of folk dances in cultural heritage: a review.

write an essay about your insights on folk dance

1. Introduction

  • Promoting cultural diversity,
  • making local communities and Indigenous people aware of the richness of their intangible heritage; and
  • strengthening cooperation and intercultural dialogue between people, different cultures, and countries.

2. Dance Digitization and Archival

  • Preparation—decision about technique and methodology to be adopted, as well as the place of digitization;
  • digital recording—main digitization process; and
  • data processing and archival—post-processing, modeling, and archival of the digitized dances.

2.1. Dance Digitization Systems

2.1.1. optical marker-based systems, active markers, passive markers, 2.1.2. marker-less motion capture systems, depth sensors, 2d and 3d pose estimation based on a single rgb camera, multiview rgb-d systems, 2.1.3. non-optical marker-based systems.

  • Acoustic systems;
  • mechanical systems;
  • magnetic systems; and
  • inertial systems.

2.1.4. Comparison of Motion Capture Technologies

  • required accuracy;
  • requirements for interactivity/real-time performance;
  • required easy calibration/self-calibration;
  • number of joints to be tracked;
  • weight/size of markers;
  • level of restriction to (dancer) movements; and
  • environmental constraints (e.g., existence of metallic objects or other noise sources affecting specific techniques).

2.2. Post-Processing

  • Direct acquisition; and
  • indirect acquisition.

2.3. Archiving and Data Retrieval

3. visualization, 3.1. types of visualization and feedback, 3.2. movements recognition, 4. performances evaluation, 5. conclusions, author contributions, conflicts of interest.

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Click here to enlarge figure

SystemAdvantagesDisadvantagesData Captured/Data Analysis/Real Time (or Not)References
Optical marker-based systems 100,000–$250,000) [ , , , , ]
Marker-less systems 100) [ , , , , , ]
Acoustic systems [ , ]
Mechanical systems 5000–$10,000) [ , ]
Magnetic systems 5000–$150,000) [ , , ]
Inertial systems 1000–$80,000) [ , , , ]
Type of VisualizationAdvantagesDisadvantages
Video
Virtual reality (VR) environment
Game-like application (3D game environment)

Share and Cite

Kico, I.; Grammalidis, N.; Christidis, Y.; Liarokapis, F. Digitization and Visualization of Folk Dances in Cultural Heritage: A Review. Inventions 2018 , 3 , 72. https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions3040072

Kico I, Grammalidis N, Christidis Y, Liarokapis F. Digitization and Visualization of Folk Dances in Cultural Heritage: A Review. Inventions . 2018; 3(4):72. https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions3040072

Kico, Iris, Nikos Grammalidis, Yiannis Christidis, and Fotis Liarokapis. 2018. "Digitization and Visualization of Folk Dances in Cultural Heritage: A Review" Inventions 3, no. 4: 72. https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions3040072

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Philippine Folk Dance Sample

Philippine Folk Dance Sample

Most Filipino dances were originally patterned after European dances during the Spanish colonial period. Pandango Sa Ilaw, Carinosa, Rigodon, and Balitao are examples of these dances that Filipinos are known for. In addition to these western-influenced dances, ethnic-created dances such as Tinikling made their way to nationwide recognition. Despite their evident adaptation to western dances, Filipinos still pay tribute to their cultural roots. Every region in the islands has its own folk dance, which is beautifully interpreted in festivals and local shows, contributing to the country’s reputation in the world’s illustration of traditional arts.

The following are examples of popular Philippine folk dances:

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  • Binasuan: originated in the Pangasinan Province, which means “with the use of drinking glasses.” This lively dance mainly showcases the performers’ balancing skills. Glasses filled with rice wine are placed on the head and in each hand, carefully maneuvered with graceful motions. This dance is common in weddings, festivals, and special occasions.
  • Rigodon: originated from Spain, this dance is typically performed at formal events such as inaugural balls where prominent members of the government participate and enjoy.
  • Pandanggo sa Ilaw: the word “pandanggo” comes from the Spanish dance “fandango,” characterized by lively steps and clapping while following a changing round. Pandanggo requires excellent balancing skills to maintain the stability of three tinggoy or oil lamps placed on the head and at the back of each hand. This celebrated dance of grace and balance originated from Lubang Island, Mindoro.

Pandanggo Sa Ilaw

Sublian – The term “subli” comes from two Tagalog words, “subsub” meaning falling on the head and “bali,” which means broken. Hence, the dancers appear to be feeble and crooked throughout the dance. This version is originally a ritual dance of the indigenous people of Bauan, Batangas, which is shown during festivals as a ceremonial worship dance to the town’s icon, the Holy Cross.

Kuratsa – Commonly performed during festivals in Bohol and other Visayan towns, this dance portrays a young playful couple’s effort to get each other’s attention. It is performed in a moderate walking manner.

Itik-Itik – According to the history of this dance, a young woman named Kanang (short for Cayetana) happened to be the best performer in the province of Surigao del Norte. At one baptismal celebration, she was asked to dance the Sibay and began improvising her steps in the middle of her performance, copying the motions of an “itik,” a duck, as it walks with jerky steps and splashes water on its back while attracting its mate. Because of its unusual steps and intriguing interpretation, the audience began copying her.

Tinikling is considered the national folk dance with a pair of dancers skipping between two bamboo poles held just above the ground and struck together in time to music. Originating from Leyte Province, this dance is, in fact, a mimic motion of “tikling birds” hopping over trees, grass stems, or over bamboo traps set by farmers. Dancers perform this dance with remarkable grace and speed, jumping between bamboo poles.

Maglalatik – Originally performed in Binan, Laguna as a mock-war dance that demonstrates a battle between the Moros and the Christians over the prized latik or coconut meat during the Spanish rule, this dance is also shown to pay tribute to the town’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. It has a four-part performance, such as the palipasan and the baligtaran showing the intense conflict, the walk, and the escaramusa, the reconciliation. Moro dancers wear red pants while the Christian dancers show up in blue. All dancers are male, with harnesses of coconut shells attached to their chests, backs, thighs, and hips.”

“Maglalatik – Originally performed in Binan, Laguna as a mock-war dance that demonstrates a battle between the Moros and the Christians over the prized latik or coconut meat during the Spanish rule, this dance is also shown to pay tribute to the town’s patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. It has a four-part performance, such as the palipasan and the baligtaran showing the intense conflict, the walk, and the escaramusa, the reconciliation. Moro dancers wear red pants, while the Christian dancers show up in blue. All dancers are male, with harnesses of coconut shells attached to their chests, backs, thighs, and hips.

Maria Clara – Maria Clara is the main female character in Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, a literary piece that features the colonial situation of the Filipinos during the Spanish government. She was characterized as a Filipina woman of virtue and nobility. This dance is a mix of Spanish gracefulness and customized native props, such as bamboo bones and Asian fan. Female dancers wear Maria Clara dress that typifies the European style, while men are in barong Tagalog, a traditional Filipino embroidered long-sleeve shirt made of pineapple fiber.

Carinosa – Carinosa is a word that describes an affectionate, friendly, and lovable woman. This dance is performed in a coquettish manner with fans and handkerchiefs to help the dancers’ hide-and-seek motions.

La Jota Manilena – It is a dance named after the capital city of the Philippines, Manila, where an adaptation of Castilian Jota floats with the clacking of bamboo bones played by the dancers themselves. The costume and the graceful motions of the performers are noticeably inspired by Spanish culture.

Sakuting – Originating in Abra, this dance interprets a mock battle between Ilokano Christians and non-Christians with training sticks as props. It is traditionally performed during Christmas at the town square or from house-to-house as a caroling show. As a return, the dancers receive presents or money locally known as “aguinaldo”.

Pantomina – Meaning “Dance of the Doves,” this dance is the highlight of Sorsogon’s Kasanggayahan Festival every third week of October. Groups of participants, mainly elderly in colorful costumes, dance to the melody of Pantomina song. It is a wooing dance originated from imitating the wooing and courtship of doves that are shown during the dance where men try to please the women.

Other Philippine Ethnic Dances

Banog – Cordillera. In this dance, performers portray hunters shielding their chickens from the starving hawk. The hawk ends up trapped and dies in the hands of the hunters.

Salisid – Kalinga, Cordillera. This is a wooing dance that symbolizes a rooster seeking to attract the attention of a hen. This is performed and portrayed by both male and female dancers as the rooster and hen, respectively. The dance starts when each of them is given a piece of cloth known as “ayob” or “allap”.

Palok – Kalinga, Cordillera. A tribal dance, the natives of Kalinga perform this dance in most of their social events. Male dancers hold gangsa or gong, a percussion instrument made of copper, and beat it with wooden sticks.

Lumagen – Kalinga, Cordillera. A tribal dance, this is a traditional Thanksgiving dance by the Kalinga people performed to celebrate good harvests and events such as the birth of the first-born child, victory in conflicts, and weddings.

Idudu- Abra, Cordillera. A tribal dance, this dance stages a typical family life in the Itneg or Tinguian society. It illustrates the family as the main foundation of the tribe’s community. Several traits of an ordinary household are shown. It depicts a father plowing the field while the mother takes care of the children. But as soon as the father finishes work, the mother takes over planting, sowing, and all the remaining tasks to do in the field. At this time, the father is left to take care of the kids. During the dance, a local singer breaks into an Idudu or lullaby to put the baby to sleep. Idudu, a dance taken from the Idudu lullaby, evidently portrays the different roles in a Tinguian family.

Dinuyya – Cordillera. Ifugao dance famous in the Ifugao region, this dance is regularly staged during festivals in Lagawe. Three types of gong instruments, such as ordinary tam-tams, tobtob – a brass tam-tam played by crushing with open palms, and hibat – a kind of gong played by hitting the inner surface with a stick, are used in this dance.

Bendayan – Benguet. This dance, more commonly known as Bendian, is performed to mark the arrival of headhunters in their territory.

Performers dance in a circle and demonstrate their lively traditional steps.

Binaylan – Agusan This is a ritual dance that originated from the Bagobo people in the central highlands of Mindanao. It copies the motions of a bird, her banog or baby birds, and a hawk. The hawk is sacred and is believed to have power over the well-being of the community. The hawk tries to capture one of the baby birds and is killed by the hunters.

Malakas at maganda – Leyte A tribal dance that depicts the birth of the first man and woman who came out of a bamboo tree. It is said that the woman named “maganda” (beautiful) and the first man “malakas” (strong) are the parents of the whole community on the island. The dance demonstrates how a bird discovered the noise coming from inside the bamboo and perched until it opened. A man and a woman came out of the large bamboo tree, and the birth of this legendary couple is entertainingly interpreted in this dance.

Burung-Talo – Sulu The dance is a unique combat dance in the form of martial arts by the Tausug people. Performers demonstrate a conflict between a hawk and a cat. With their athletic movements and fierce facial expressions, this dance is highlighted with the accompanying energetic beats of drums and gongs.

Kadal-Blelah- South Cotabato A tribal dance where the dancers perform a simulation of the movements of birds.

Kadal Tahaw – Tiboli dance- South Cotabato A tribal dance performed by Tiboli people. This dance that mimics the hopping and flying behavior of the Tahaw bird is performed to celebrate good crop.

Sayaw sa Cuyo – Palawan Cuyo is a small island and the capital of Palawan. There, the feast day of St. Augustin is traditionally celebrated with parades, processions, and small performances by groups coming from all over Cuyo Island and the nearby islets. Island dances blended with strong old Cuyo ethnicity and Spanish-influenced steps are all brought out when Cuyo celebrates its festivals. Today, pretty young girls daintily swirl hats to the waltz and other European steps designed to bring out the freshness and liveliness of the performers.

Karatong – Palawan: A Muslim dance. During the festival of San Agustin in the island of Cuyo, the celebration also includes the flowering of mango trees. The parade starts from the church terrace and ends at the town plaza with ladies waving their colorful props “Bunga mangga” that symbolize the flowers of the mango tree, while men play their karatong instruments, creating a scene of joy among the delighting townspeople.

Dugso – Bukidnon: A thanksgiving dance from the Talaindig folk.

Gayong-gayong – Capiz: A Muslim dance. In rural villages, this dance offers much merriment. Gayong is a favored name for Leodegario. According to the fable and to the words of the song, Gayong and Masiong (favored name for Dalmacio) once attended a banquet marking the death of a townsman.

While eating, Masiong choked on a piece of Adobo, so he called “Gayong! Gayong!” to ask for help to free a bone from the Adobo meal from his throat. In this dance, Masiong’s desire for banquets and the effect of his gluttony are held up to playful ridicule.

Kapa Malong-Malong – Cotabato: A Muslim dance. This Maranao dance is performed with women wearing malong and shawl, mantle or headpiece, whereas men wear sash or waistband, trunks or bahag, and headgear or turban traditionally worn in the fields.

Pagapir – Lanao del Sur: This dance is normally performed to start an important matter. Dancers of this dance are usually from the royal court or high society group of Lanao Province. They use an apir or fan to coordinate with their small steps called kini-kini, which symbolizes their good manners and outstanding family background.

Pangalay- Zamboanga Del Sur: A Muslim dance. Originally performed by affluent families during a wedding celebration, this fingernail dance is now a popular festival dance in Sulu.

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  • Essay On Dance

Dance Essay

500+ words essay on dance.

Dance has occupied an important place in Indian culture throughout history. Dance is most commonly defined as a way of human expression through movement. People have seen dance as a performing art on stage, on-screen and in the media. Dance can also be a form of physical fitness or a prime means of expressing cultural heritage and identity. Historically, dance was often performed in rituals, worship, social celebrations, and as a means of entertainment and self-expression. Nowadays, dance has become a part of traditional events and also an element of new innovative performing experiences. This essay on dance will help students to understand the importance of dance and its different forms. For students’ convenience, we have also compiled a list of CBSE Essays on different topics to brush up on their essay writing skills.

Dance Is an Art

Dance connects us to society and culture in many universal and personal ways. It deepens our understanding of the world and ourselves. Synthesising personal knowledge and experiences with dance movements reinforces us to perceive the feelings and ideas evoked in a dance form. Dance makes us feel happy. When we dance, all our worries and stress go away. We get lost in pleasure and joy. Dance is also an exercise that provides numerous benefits to our health, such as improving blood circulation, developing muscles, promoting greater flexibility, improving body posture etc. People who dance daily are always fit and cheerful. That’s why dancers are very less likely to fall sick.

Dance helps us to connect to our inner selves. It provides us with mental peace and awakens the consciousness of our inner beauty. It helps develop self-confidence and self-esteem in a stimulating environment. Dance makes us feel more energetic and enthusiastic. It makes the brain learn things faster, so our capability to grasp new things increases.

Different Dance Forms of India

Dance has a long history in India. A large amount of material related to dance, dating from as early as the 2nd century BCE up to the 21st century CE, is available. For example, we have a bronze ‘dancing girl’ figurine from Mohenjo-Daro and a broken torso from Harappa in a dance pose. The history of dance can be traced back to the classical, middle and modern historical periods.

Indian dance forms fall into two broad categories – classical and folk. The present-day forms of classical Indian dances are performed on the stage on various occasions. The classical dance forms include Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Kathak, Sattriya, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam etc. Whereas the folk dance forms include Bhangra, Lavani, Ghumara, Kathi, Nakata, Koli, Gadhwali, Lezim, Savari, Painka, Chhau, Munari etc.

The presentation of Indian dance in Hindi cinema has projected modern dances. Dance in early Hindi cinema was primarily modelled on classical Indian dance styles. Modern films often use a fusion of Indian dance styles with Western dance styles. It could be a combination of inter-mixing of Indian classical, Indian folk dance, belly dancing, jazz, hip hop and even folk forms.

Students must have found this “Essay on Dance” useful for improving their essay-writing skills. They can get the study material and latest updates on CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive Exams at BYJU’S.

Frequently Asked Questions on Dance Essay

How many dance forms have indian origin.

About 15 dance forms are said to be of Indian origin, and all these are practised and learnt even today.

Some positive effects of dance and dancing?

Dancing can be a stress buster for many and helps in the relaxation of the body and mind. It also has several health benefits such as improved blood circulation, nervous system coordination, etc.

Who invented dance?

The origins of the dance are said to be in India (9000 years old) and in Egypt (5300 years old).

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Free Dance Essay Examples & Topics

Dance has been a part of human civilization and culture for centuries. It is one of the best tools for entertainment and communication. What’s more, people choose it as a way of self-expression, a hobby, or an occupation. There are many types of dances. Some are well-known (tango, hip-hop, salsa, ballet), while others are less familiar to most people (kathak, kabuki, electronic dance).

When writing an essay about dance, you can write about any type if the assignment allows doing so. Due to the variety of dances, topic selection can take a long time. However, even after choosing the right idea, it is not always clear how to start your essay on it.

First of all, we recommend looking at the samples. You need to read some dance essay examples and pay attention to their structure. It also gives you an opportunity to polish or change the topic to write about.

Besides, our team has prepared a small guide on writing a dance essay. We have listed several ideas which will help you to write it as well.

If you need to write an essay on dance, it will probably be a narrative or descriptive one or even a critique of some sort. However, even the most creative academic papers have a rigid structure. So, you have to write a 5-paragraph essay. In this section, we will tell you how to do it.

To write an exemplary dance essay, you should follow these rules:

  • Developing a solid structure is your goal. It is vital for the reader’s understanding and evaluation of your essay. You’ll need an introduction with a thesis statement, 2-3 paragraphs with arguments and examples, and a conclusion. Creating a good outline will help you to stay focused and follow the structure. Here is how you can do it:
  • At first, read some background information about the style that interests you. Take some notes when you are watching a dance performance. Try to focus on small technical details as well as on your impression.
  • Decide what you are going to describe in your body paragraphs. Each of them should highlight one idea. Remember that the first sentence of a paragraph is a basis for the supportive sentences after it.
  • Write down a short summary of your central paragraphs. Focus on the main thoughts and keywords. It will help you to create the introduction and conclusion. Look at your notes once again to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.
  • Descriptions are vital for your paper. Note everything you notice about the movements, choreography, music, costumes, scenery, props, and performance. Think about your personal response to what you see. Even if you write a narrative essay, you should focus on these aspects.

Provide your interpretation of the dance. Identify all the people whose performance you describe and use examples to support your assumptions. Connect what you’ve seen with your previous studies or experiences.

  • The style of your essay should be on point:
  • Use descriptive language. Action words should describe the qualities of the movements. Use vivid adjectives to describe the qualities of the details you notice.
  • Describe the actions in the present tense. But if you have chosen to write using past forms, don’t mix tense in the essay.
  • Follow the requirements of your educational institution. They may include a specific font, margins, and title pages. And don’t forget to write from the third-person perspective.
  • Check your grammar and spelling. Exclude repetitive sentences or phrases.
  • Leave the paper for a couple of hours and reread it. It should help to notice the possible flaws.

Having figured out the basic rules, we can move on to ideas for an essay on dancing. In this section, we have collected topics that you can use for inspiration or practice.

We suggest the following dance essay topics for your consideration:

  • Why is dance a form of art?
  • What makes a good dance?
  • National dances among African ethnicities.
  • How folk dance reflects the culture of a nation?
  • The history of hip-hop dance.
  • The importance of dance in my life.
  • The origin of Waltz and its significance.
  • The influence of modern dance on society.
  • The theory of seven movements in dancing.
  • The best dance performances in history.
  • The benefits of dancing for older people.
  • Teaching dance to young children is beneficial to their development.
  • Contemporary types of dance in Asian countries.
  • What are the disadvantages of a dancing career?
  • How does dance appreciation vary among different generations?
  • Dance as a way of socialization in high school and college.
  • How to critique a dance concert?

Thanks for reading till the end! Below you will find dance essay examples. Studying them will help you look at the topic from different angles and understand how to start writing your own paper.

82 Best Essay Examples on Dance

What is dance: definition and genres, benefits of dancing essay, history and development of dance.

  • Words: 1231

Garba Dance, Its History and Specifics: A Traditional Indian Dance

  • Words: 1129

Dance and Mathematics Relationship

Dance elements in “swan lake” and “night journey” ballets, similarities between ballet and hip hop.

  • Words: 1223

Dance Analysis: Social and Cultural Context

Dancing and singing as kinds of art, igor stravinsky’s the rite of spring, traditional chinese lion dance and its styles.

  • Words: 1660

African Influence on Brazilian Music: The Samba

  • Words: 1642

Hip Hop Dance

The ritual dance important elements, dancing as a kind of art.

  • Words: 2761

Tango: Origin, History, and Characteristics

  • Words: 1377

Impact of the Dance as Education

History of samba in brazilian society: a traditional brazilian dance.

  • Words: 1243

Contemporary Dance: Continuity and Inimitability

  • Words: 1414

History of Dances in Ireland

Poi dance as cultural performance, african dance taught by rujeko dumbutshena, space in dance theatre.

  • Words: 1686

Ballet and Jazz Dance: Styles Description

Jazz dance and its techniques, dance as a cultural practice to alleviate nostalgia among immigrants.

  • Words: 8301

Connections Between Dances from Different Cultures

Modern dance in the united states, “rebellions in everynight life” by delgado and muñoz, the ballet “cave of the heart”, the “bellyache” dance by billie eilish, performance art: dance concept, how alvin ailey’s dances help with drug addiction.

  • Words: 1289

Flamingo or Flamenco Dance

Ballet, pavane, and bourée dances in praetorius’ “terpsichore”, dancing movement: review, music industry: celia cruz.

  • Words: 1458

Flamenco Music and Dance History: Spanish Carte-De-Visite Born in Andalusia

Loïe fuller: an american dancer and actor, enrico cecchetti’s influence on the russia ballet.

  • Words: 3538

Rudolf Nureyev as a Choreographer

American musical theatre and twyla tharp.

  • Words: 5536

The History of Hula: Art Analysis

  • Words: 1392

Classical Dance: Term Definition

History of capoeira in the brazilian community: social dance and form of martial arts.

  • Words: 1300

Jazz Social Dance and Impact on American Culture

Fukushima disaster in “falling out” dancing performance.

  • Words: 1110

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Its History

Dancing: choreographer doris humphrey.

  • Words: 1104

Flamenco Dance and History of Passion

“the power of myth” and “lord of the dance” films, ballet pas de deux: dance and architecture exhibition, the age of romanticism: dances articles analysis, mikhail baryshnikov’s biography and input to ballet, les ballets jazz de montreal and zero in on, the royal ballet dance in covent garden.

  • Words: 1402

Lindy Hop Dance: Development, Events, Figures

  • Words: 3036

The Grass Dance Cultural Importance

  • Words: 1085

Ballets: “Carmen” and “In the Upper Room”

Alvin ailey’ and alexander pushkin’ views on the modern dance.

  • Words: 1094

Swan Lake Choreographed by Matthew Bourne

The csn fall dance concert, 2008 beijing olympics performance, belly dancing: why the world knows little about it.

  • Words: 1629

Dancer Alvin Ailey: Techniques and Artistic Choices

Dance: alonzo king lines ballet.

  • Words: 1089

Chicano Folklore: Mexican Folk Dance

Mikhail baryshnikov’ dancing philosophy.

  • Words: 1112

The Dance Video “Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake 2”

Moon – solo dance by yang liping, flash: a new choreography, the way of geisha dance, dance education and culture.

  • Words: 4956

Miami Dance Project for Autistic Children

Ruth st. denis’s biography.

  • Words: 1111

Survey of Contemporary Dances

History of balinese dancing art.

  • Words: 1088

History and Development of Ballet

Capoeira dance history and popularity.

  • Words: 1589

Alvin Ailey – an Activist and American Choreographer

Hip hop dancing: the remarkable black beat.

  • Words: 1617

Modern Dance by Jiri Kylian

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  3. Indian Folk Dances Essay Example

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  4. Folk dance

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  5. History OF FOLK Dance IN THE Philippines

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  6. ⇉Philippine Folk Dance Sample Essay Example

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COMMENTS

  1. 100 Words Essay on Folk Dance

    Folk dance is a type of dance that is a part of the traditions of a group of people or a country. It is often passed down from one generation to the next. Each country or region has its own unique folk dance that tells a story or shows what life is like in that place. These dances are not just for fun; they are a way for people to keep their ...

  2. Folk Dance: Traditional Dances in Different Cultures

    That is what makes the dance so rich and fascinating. It is rare to find a dance that is celebrated around the world, falls under the same name, and yet, has almost a completely different style depending on where it is being performed. This is Traditional folk dance essay where will be reviewed different kinds of folk dances throughout the world.

  3. Folk dance

    flamenco. bhangra. sword dance. Morris dance. capoeira. folk dance, generally, a type of dance that is a vernacular, usually recreational, expression of a past or present culture. The term folk dance was accepted until the mid-20th century. Then this and other categories of dance were questioned and their distinctions became subject to debate.

  4. Reflection about Philippine folk dance

    The developmentof Philippine Folkdance now a dayshas grown faster. Folk dance help topresent the culture of the Philippine. Folk dance tell us what personalities we have in other countries the differences of other country to our country helps to know the different ideas of other countries. Folk dance is like modern dance the way they attack people.

  5. Preserving Heritage through Movement: Philippine Folk Dance

    It is a mock war dance that depicts a fight over coconut meat, a highly-prized food. The Filipino folk dance is broken into four parts: two devoted to the battle and two devoted to reconciling. The dancing men wear coconut shells as part of their costumes, and they hit them in rhythm with the music.

  6. Philippine Folk Dances: A Kaleidoscope of Tradition and Movement

    January 27, 2024. You may not be aware that Philippine folk dances encompass a myriad of traditions and movements, each reflecting the unique cultural heritage of the country's diverse ethnic groups. From the high-energy and intricate footwork of the Tinikling dance to the graceful and fluid motions of the Pangalay dance, these traditional ...

  7. Understanding Folk Dance: 10 Styles of Folk Dance

    Understanding Folk Dance: 10 Styles of Folk Dance. Folk dance is a way for people to express, share, and connect with their own traditional culture. Various styles of folk dance have been performed all over the world for centuries, and are still performed by many cultures today.

  8. Is Folk Dance Still Thriving? Personal Experience and Interest in

    Only the competence of the dance instructor was rated highly aware.With regard to the performance of the Grade 9 students in folk dancing fundamental skills, for the three categories given: poise ...

  9. (PDF) Folk Dances and Their Impact on The Philippine Culture-Based

    Philippine folk dances can be dated back as early as the pre-colonial period which inherited by our forefathers and passed through several generations of Filipinos. ... along with its applications and various chanting techniques, are discussed in this essay. About the current state of Meranao society, it highlights the many chapters of this ...

  10. National Identity in Philippine Folk Dance: Changing Focus from the

    Aquino started collecting folk dance in the Philippines in the mid-1920s. This culminated in her Master's thesis in 1926 entitled Philippine Folk Dances and Games.Aquino utilised a narrative connected with the model of folk dance as being under threat from development, of folk dance being associated with nature, and of its eternally unchanging aspect.

  11. Essay On Folk Dance

    1. Move rhythmically to music, typically following a set sequence of steps. 2. To move in a quick and lively way (by a person) 3. A series of steps and movements that match the speed and rhythm of a piece of music. It can be understood by these definitions that dancing is an art.

  12. My Experience As A Student With Philippine Folk Dance

    The document discusses the author's experiences with Philippine folk dancing from elementary school through senior high school. Some of the dances discussed include Cariñosa, a Spanish-influenced courtship dance, and Tinikiling, which involves bamboo sticks. Folk dancing helps preserve Philippine culture by passing traditions from generation to generation and reflecting the customs of the ...

  13. Philosophical and Histo-Cultural Perspectives of Local Folk Dances

    Domingo and dance analysis will adopt Cariaga's guidelines for analysis of specific movements. "Ang Kutsero", "Binaylehan" and "Pamabhas" are folk dances that depict the rural life ...

  14. Essay About Filipino Folk Dance

    Essay About Filipino Folk Dance. 979 Words4 Pages. I was once gifted with coconut shells from a Filipino friend and began to wonder about the uses of coconut shells in dance. Upon research, I found out that the Maglalatik dance in Philippines uses coconut shells as props. This led me to become interested in the unfamiliar Filipino dance culture.

  15. The Importance of Preserving Folk Dance for Future Generations

    Folk dance is an integral part of a culture, and it plays an essential role in connecting people to their roots. The dance steps, costumes, instruments, and rhythms used in folk dances reflect the unique identity of a particular culture or region. In essence, it reflects the traditions and customs of people, their history, and their way of life.

  16. Folk Dance Essay

    Folk dances are used to reflect the traditional life of the people of a certain country or region. It is a kind of ethnic dance, but not all ethnic dances …show more content…. Also, all of these dance styles have a type of value whether it be aesthetic or symbolic. Most performance dance is based on ballet; this includes even swing or jazz ...

  17. Philippine Folk Dances: A story of a nation

    This essay privileges the ways Hiphop dancers in Manila theorise their practices through four main aspectsgenre, mode, dimension and conflict - in order to draw attention to the principles of ...

  18. Folk Dances Around the World

    These dances may recount historical events, depict mythical stories, or simply celebrate the joys and challenges of everyday life. In this way, folk dances become an integral part of a community's narrative, forging a connection between the past, present, and future. Furthermore, folk dances are often a celebration of diversity within a culture ...

  19. Digitization and Visualization of Folk Dances in Cultural Heritage: A

    According to UNESCO, cultural heritage does not only include monuments and collections of objects, but also contains traditions or living expressions inherited from our ancestors and passed to our descendants. Folk dances represent part of cultural heritage and their preservation for the next generations appears of major importance. Digitization and visualization of folk dances form an ...

  20. ⇉Philippine Folk Dance Sample Essay Example

    Most Filipino dances were originally patterned after European dances during the Spanish colonial period. Pandango Sa Ilaw, Carinosa, Rigodon, and Balitao are examples of these dances that Filipinos are known for. In addition to these western-influenced dances, ethnic-created dances such as Tinikling made their way to nationwide recognition.

  21. Importance of Folk Dance

    PANAHON, CHARLOTTE T. BSA 2 3082. Activity 3: WRITTEN WORK. Folk Dance As time passed by, norms, beliefs, and cultures of different groups of people began to develop slowly that leads to forming into traditions. Folk dance is a very popular type of dance around the world. The history of folk dance came in several centuries.

  22. Dance Essay for Students in English

    This essay on dance will help students to understand the importance of dance and its different forms. For students' convenience, we have also compiled a list of CBSE Essays on different topics to brush up on their essay writing skills. Dance Is an Art. Dance connects us to society and culture in many universal and personal ways.

  23. Free Dance Essay Examples & Topic Ideas

    How to Write a Dance Essay If you need to write an essay on dance, it will probably be a narrative or descriptive one or even a critique of some sort. However, even the most creative academic papers have a rigid structure. So, you have to write a 5-paragraph essay. In this section, we will tell you how to do it. To write an exemplary dance ...