ISSUE № 1, SEPT 2016
6
Dance the Fandango
Sometimes in life to avoid stress some of us just dance. That being so, why not learn the Fandango. A staple of Iberian
arts, the Fandango has become one of the leading folk dances in both the Spanish and Portuguese society. The Fandango represents
showmanship, elegance, and passion that is widespread through continents due to the history of migration and diffusion, and continues
to grow. With each culture adding its own twist. While the dance was first recorded circa 1712 (an estimate 10 years after its reported
beginning) in Andalusia it is rumored that the origins were brought to Spain by The Moors in 711 AD. Coincidentally, when The
Moors invaded, they arrived in then “Andalus”.
The word Fandango is said to have meant “a fuss”, “a quarrel”, or a “big exploit”. This implies that the dance’s spine is lively and full
of emotion, passion and various energies. Observing the dance on various YouTube clips reiterates this. The dancers are usually vibrantly attired in loud colored frilly dresses, and hard bottomed shoes. As the dance goes on, the usual duo or trio of dancers clap between moves, tap their feet; which adds to the exotic Spanish guitars and percussive inputs. While the hand movements by the wrists
suggest swinging energy. In some circumstances they clutch the frills of their dresses and move them according to the beat which altars the space around the dancer. Once the dance arrived in Portugal they too embraced the art of it. The Spanish diaspora is now widespread and far reaching from the United States, to the southernmost tip of Argentina in an area that covers 16 sovereignties as well as
the Caribbean islands of Cuba & Puerto Rico.
In conclusion, The Fandango’s emergence on the world stage contributed to many aspects of South American, African, and Asian culture. Considering the order of events, one could say the dances that stemmed are the children, and even grand children of The Fandango. All in all, this dance will continue to grow, entertain, and mesmerize those who explore her beauty. So next time you think release;
why not try the Fandango.
Nathaniel Luke -Works cited :/ "Fandango." Spanish Dance and Music:. N.p., 2011. Web. 22 Ju-
ly ;“Fandango” Spanish Arts. Spanish-art.org. Web. 25 July.
CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO
A product of MELODY DANCE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Id-zpJmGfpo