The steps
Sardana consists of two step sequences; Short steps are called curts and long steps are called llargs. Both types are based on a sequence of steps similar to the ballet combination ‘pas de bourree’, which consists of three quick steps – behind, side, front – where the dancers’ weight varies from foot to foot.
To make a groove, move the ball on the left foot forward and place it to the right. Take a small step diagonally back with your right foot. Cross the left foot diagonally to the right. Repeat the sequence that begins with moving the ball on the right foot forward. A sequence should record about two numbers of music.
The llargs are similar but more elongated. Place the ball of the right foot forward Then place the ball of the left foot forward and cross it in front of the right foot. Place the ball on the right foot forward and place it to the left. Take a small step diagonally backwards with your left foot. Cross the right foot in front of the left. Repeat the sequence that begins with moving the left foot forward. The llargs should take up about four tests of music.
The trick is to master the rapid change of weight from one foot to the other. Steps should have a loose end in the ankles and knees. The heel should never lie on the ground.
The dance
The dance is divided into sections called tiradas, which typically consist of 10 sections where dancers alternate between curts and llargs. The changes and length of time in each tirade, along with the final step that separates each section, differ from each melody.
The participants are in a pie chart that changes according to gender if possible, even if the dance is not limited to couples. The hands are united throughout the dance, held at the bottom below the gallbladder and raised to shoulder level in the lungs. An experienced dancer leads the group, anticipating the changes in steps and direction by listening to beats in the music.
Dress
The costumes do not wear under sardana. Normal attire is common. Dancers sometimes wear traditional rope espadrilles.
There you will find Sardana
Fiestas and parties are the best place to find a sardana shape, often in a village or square. Dancing can often be seen in Barcelona on Sunday mornings in front of the Cathedral and Placa de Catalunya, and many evenings on Placa de Sant Jaume. Sardana is common at the four-day festival in La Merge, patron of Barcelona, which begins on September 24.
Challenges
The steps are more complicated than they may seem to the spectator. The subtle changes that dictate the transition from curts to llargs are easily missed. The length of time in each step sequence as well as the number of steps varies with the music and can also be confusing for the dancer. Although everyone is welcome to join the sardan, it is seen as a bad etiquette for a person to join a dance that already consists entirely of couples. Sardana, a moving circle dance in the Spanish region of Catalonia, represents national pride, unity and identity. The origin of the dance is unknown, but similarities with Mediterranean and Iberian circles dance hints at their possible roots. The dance is usually accompanied by a small group of musicians playing brass instruments called a cobla. A flute leads the music while a tambourine sets the rhythm.
Source:danspela.com