Csardas or Czardas dance is a Central European dance form which literally translates into the word “tavern”. The Csardas dance is a traditional folk dance and is supposed to have originated from Hungary, and is popular in countries such as Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia, Ukraine, Russia, and Poland. Apparently, this dance style was made popular by musical bands to a community in Hungary known as “Romani”. Furthermore, this dance is performed by both men and women.
It has become very popular in Europe and other parts of the world. The dance is usually performed with lively music and the dancers form a circle. The dancers often switch partners during the dance and use props like swords and handkerchiefs to add to the ambience of the dance. The Csardas dance is also quite popular amongst the Romani people and is being performed at various festivals and parties around the world.
a. History/origin of the Czardas dance:
The Czardas dance originated in Hungary, and is said to be one of the most popular Hungarian dances. According to the cultural history of Hungary, this dance style is said to have been developed during the 18th century in the country from a musical genre called verbunkos. The dance is believed to have been created by Hungarian gypsies inspired by the Hungarian folk music and is said to be a combination of the fast–paced gypsy music and the slow–paced Hungarian folk music.
b. Costumes used in the Csardas dance:
The costumes worn for the Czardas dance are usually traditional Hungarian clothing, such as long skirts and blouses for the women, and embroidered vests and hats for the men. The costumes are usually brightly colored and decorated with embroidery and lace.The costumes used in this dance style vary according to the gender as follows:
1. For men:
The attire worn includes a white shirt, a black overcoat, a black trouser, and a pair of black shoes.
2. For women:
The attire worn includes traditional wide red coloured skirts.
c. Music involved in the Czardas dance:
The Czardas dance is usually accompanied by traditional Hungarian folk music. The music used in this dance form is usually a combination of gypsy music, Hungarian folk music and other genres of music. The music is usually fast-paced and can be quite lively. This music is usually composed of stringed instruments, such as the violin, cimbalom, and accordion. The music is usually fast-paced and energetic, with a strong beat and many syncopated rhythms.
d. Dance steps and style of the Csardas dance:
The dance steps involve a combination of fast and slow movements. The Czardas dance is usually done in a circular formation, with the dancers facing each other in pairs. The dancers form a circle and the steps involve a lot of skipping and turning movements. The dancers often switch partners in between steps and form different formations. The dance is usually performed in a lively manner and the dancers often use props like swords and handkerchiefs to add to the ambience of the dance. The dance steps are quite complex and involve many intricate footwork and arm movements. The dance is usually done in a fast-paced and energetic manner, with the feet and arms moving quickly and in sync with the music.
e. Popularity of the Czardas dance:
The Czardas dance is a popular dance in Hungary, and is often performed at weddings and other festive occasions. The dance is also popular in other parts of the world, and can be seen performed in many countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. The dance is also popular in Latin American countries like Venezuela, Colombia, and Argentina. Furthermore, the dance has been featured in various movies and television shows around the world. The dance is also popular amongst the Romani people and is being performed all over the world at various festivals and parties.