Performed mainly by “males” is a Eurasian dance style known as Khorumi. This “war” dance is said to have originated from a region called Adjara located in Georgia. Initially performed only by a few men it has gradually evolved into a dance form that is now performed in a group comprising of around thirty to forty dancers. Furthermore, this dance style basically represents some major characteristics possessed by the “Georgian” army in the past. In addition, this unique dance form also comprises of themes based on war, search, courage shown by the soldiers, and celebration of victory.
A. History/origin of the Khorumi:
According to the cultural history of Georgia, this dance style was first said to have been developed in southwest of the country in a region called Adjara. Apparently, it was created to honour a few major characteristics that were seen in the Georgian army in the past. In addition, since Georgia has experienced a number of wars over the years, this dance has also been created to remind the people of the country that “peace” and “war” are sides of the same coin, and so in order to maintain peace one must be prepared for war.
B. Costumes used in the Khorumi:
The costume worn by the performers (mainly male) in this dance style include a long sleeve shirt, a trouser, a cloth tied around the waist, a pair of long boots, and a cloth tied around the head as a form of a headgear.
C. Music involved in the Khorumi:
The musical instruments used in this dance style basically include a doli i.e. a type of drum, and a chiboni i.e. a form of bagpipe.
D. Training availability and technique involved in the Khorumi:
In terms of technique, the dance involves the use of simple yet extremely distinct feet movements. Furthermore, this dance also includes a “prelude” in which the performers (mainly men) are basically searching for campsites and enemy camps in preparation of a mock war. In addition, this dance also involves the performers exiting the imaginary battlefield (i.e. stage) via the use of decisive feet movements. As for training centers/schools, there are none available around the world since this “war” dance is mainly performed in Georgia.