“Draw water” is the literal English translation of Crpi Voda Jano, a Southeast European dance style. This “folk” dance is said to have originated from the Skopje region located in the Republic of Macedonia. This dance style is performed by both males as well as females. Furthermore, this dance involves the use of extremely “steady” feet movements. In addition, this dance possesses a rhythm of 2/4.
A. History/origin of the Crpi Voda Jano:
There is no information available regarding the history/origin of this folk dance.
B. Costumes used in the Crpi Voda Jano:
Not much is known about the costumes used in this folk dance originating from the Skopje region in Macedonia.
C. Music used in the Crpi Voda Jano:
The music used in this dance form includes a song whose lyrics in Macedonian and its translation in English are as follows:
MACEDONIAN
Црпи вода, Јано, бегај дома,
Оздол иде, Јано, силен аскер,
Оздол иде, Јано, силен аскер,
Силен аскер, Јано, Демир-Тоска,
Напред врви, Јано, Мамуд паша,
А по него, Јано, гаваз-Шукри,
Ќе ти сакат, Јано, ладна вода,
А по вода, Јано, бело лице.
ENGLISH
Draw water, Jana, run home,
From above comes a strong army, Jana,
From above comes a strong army, Jana,
A strong army, Jana, Demir-Toska,
At its head, Jana, comes Mahmud Pasha,
And next to him, Jana, is Gavaz-Shukri
They will want cold water, Jana,
They will want your white face, Jana.
D. Training availability and technique involved in Crpi Voda Jano:
In terms of technique, the performers initially form a half circle. They then dance to the rhythm of the accompanying by using “simple yet steady feet movements”. In addition, while dancing the performers also hold their belts. As for training centers/schools, there are none available around the world since this “folk” dance is mainly performed in Macedonia.