The Scandinavian region with its vast and unique history has various folk dance styles. The folk dances of Norway are the integral part of the region’s history and culture. So here is presenting a list of five popular Norwegian folk dance forms.
A. POLS DANCE:
Considered to be a “quicker version” of the “Polska”, is a Norwegian dance style referred to as the Pols dance. Furthermore, this dance is performed to music produced by fiddles i.e. violin. In addition, it is also performed with the couple facing each other, and their bodies moving in the anticlockwise direction. This dance form is extremely popular in the East of Norway.
B. RUDL DANCE:
Similar in style to the Swedish “Snoa” is a Norwegian dance form known as Rudl dance. It is essentially a couple dance that is performed in the 2/4 or duple 6/8 meter time. Furthermore, this style of dance is extremely popular in West Norway. In addition, this Norwegian dance style is also referred to as “Rull”.
C. SPRINGAR DANCE:
Also known as “Springdans”, is yet another popular Norwegian folk dance known as Springar dance. Apparently, this folk dance is mainly performed in West Norway. Furthermore, it is performed to music that is mainly produced by the “Hardingfele” (i.e. a special type of fiddle). In addition, it is performed mainly by a “couple” in which the male usually takes the lead.
D. BYGDEDANS DANCE:
Considered to be the “oldest” is a popular Norwegian folk dance referred to as Bygdedans dance. In addition, it is also commonly referred to as the “Village dance”. Furthermore, this ancient folk dance comprises of two basic forms, the “gangar” and the “springar”. The music accompanying the Bygdedans is usually produced by the hardanger fiddle.
E. HAILING DANCE:
Also referred to as “Halingdansen” is a popular Norwegian folk dance style known as Hailing dance. It is a “celebratory” dance style and is performed mainly by young men during festive occasions such as marriages and parties. Furthermore, this dance involves steps that require a combination of “strength and grace”. In addition, Hailing is said to have originated from districts in Norway such as Valdres and Hallingdal.