Pravo Hora Dance is a traditional folk dance from Bulgaria in Eastern Europe. The Pravo Hora is performed mainly during festive occasions such as marriages and feasts. While it originated in Bulgaria, the Pravo Hora is popular throughout the Balkan region in Southeast Europe. In addition, this dance style is performed by both men and women, and comprises of a unique basic step which consists of a few variations. Furthermore, it is considered to be the “national dance” of Bulgaria, Albania, and Macedonia.
a. History/origin of Pravo Hora:
In terms of the history/origin of the Hora dance form, it is said that it actually first originated in Greece. Furthermore, this dance style has evolved gradually over the years, and also gained popularity quickly in the Balkan region in countries such as Romania, Macedonia, and Bulgaria. It was eventually in Bulgaria that the “Pravo Hora” comprising of a unique basic step was developed. In addition, it has also been named as the “national dance” of Bulgaria, Albania, and Macedonia.
b. Costumes used in the Pravo Hora:
The costumes generally worn are long tunic tops and trousers by the male performers while, the female attire will usually include full skirts, colourful scarves worn around the neck, and belted mid calf length dresses.
c. Music involved in the Pravo Hora:
The musical instruments mainly used include the cymbals, an accordion, and the violin.
d. Training availability and technique involved in the Pravo Hora:
In terms of technique, in this dance the performers initially arrange themselves around concentric curving lines holding hands. Furthermore, the performers hold their hands at the sides along with the right palm facing forward, and the left palm facing backward. In addition, a performer also holds the belt or sash of another dancer. The curving line formed by the performers then moves towards and outside center respectively, and forms the basic step of this dance. In addition, this basic step comprises of a few variations. They are as follows:
- A stamp: Maybe added before the steps are taken forward in accordance to the beats of 1 and 2.
- A chug: Involves the use of a forward step taken by the performer in measure 3. Furthermore, while taking this step weight is usually shared on both feet.
- The triplets: Involves the performers making use of “three light steps” instead of a single forward step.
- Tropoli: Involves the performers using a full foot while tapping a toe and raising the heel off the floor and bringing it down.
As for training centers/schools, there are none available around the world since this “folk” dance is mainly performed in Bulgaria and other countries in the Balkan region such as Albania and Macedonia.