Cultural Dance
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Dances with structure, a shared rhythm and pattern of steps. For example Village Circle Dances. People move in tandem, as if becoming a single body.
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Often there is a purpose or story which the dance represents.
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Having a definite form, these dances can be repeated until they become as familiar as breathing – a way of resting in movement.
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Moving in sync creates connection with others, a sense of belonging, of being held in solidarity.
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A contrasting and balanced sequence of dances adds to the synergy. The reported outcome is often release, peace and a sense of ‘fullness’.
Cultural Dance has a distinct sequence of movements. This is witnessed in traditional dances worldwide such as in indigenous and village societies. These have played a unifying and therapeutic role in the life of communities over thousands of years. Dancing together provided co-regulation, social cohesion, shared narratives, emotional vitality and inspiration. The Circle Dance network has adapted this approach to work in a modern multicultural urban setting, incorporating a diverse range of music, movements and styles.