Cyprus Folk Dancing

Dancing is one of the oldest expressions that humankind learned from its environment. They are performed through elaborate rituals and to the beat of distinct music. In almost every culture dancing is a way of life. It reflects the people’s aspiration and their own practices. These dances are performed during harvest time or in offering to the gods and goddesses. Even the coming of a newborn and during wedding ceremonies, dances are being offered as a way of thanksgiving.

Cypriots have their own brand of folk dancing. In fact Cyprus folk dancing are some of the age-old traditions that has been handed from one generation to the other. Cyprus folk dancing is a scion of tow different popular cultures. It is a classic example of an east-meets-west amalgamation of Greek and Turkish culture. This blend makes Cyprus folk dancing truly unique and one of a kind. So when anyone talks about the folk dancing among Cypriots it must be noted that there are Turkish Cypriots folk dancing and the Greek-influenced folk dancing.

The Turkish Cypriots folk dances are performed during ceremonies like weddings. Both men and women from different families showcase their prepared folk dances to entertain the couple, families, and the guests. These dances are executed in the most sophisticated and intricate manner and the dancers are also donned in the most elegant costumes befitting of an elaborate rituals. The music are also carefully chosen to complement to the occasion.

Other occasions wherein Turkish Cypriots perform their folk dances are the kina nights, bountiful catch from the sea, and harvest of good crops. These folk dances are reflection of the people’s thanksgiving to their gods and goddesses. More often than not, these dances are presented through grandiose festivals. Interestingly the folk dances performed among the Turkish Cypriots are executed by following the required sequence. The first of the sequence is the meeting, followed by the handkerchief dance, which is suggestive as what the dancers are bringing during the meeting. The next sequence is the zeybek dance (originated from the Zeybeks of Asia Minor, the dance is an imitation of the flying hawks) followed by the women dances, which is generally danced in slower tempo. The dramatic dance and the butcher follow sequentially.

The Greek Cypriots have their own folk dances as well which are inspired by their mother culture, notably the Greek Culture. The origin of this Cyprus folk dancing from the Greek side had originated from the surrounding Greek island group like the Ionian isles, Aegean islands, and the seaboard of the Asia Minor. Their dances are mostly performed in suites which means that a dance will usually precedes another until all the dances are performed. A pair as a showcase of extension or competition performs most of the dances.

Cyprus folk dancing is truly rich in origin thanks to the mother cultures that influenced it. Perhaps this will be the only aspect of Cypriots that can really unite them.