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Washington DC Turkish Folk
Dance Troupe
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Thrace
Trakya (Thrace)
is the European section of Turkey. It has long been a crossroads
for many different cultures: Bulgaria, Greece, Bosnia, Albania, Romania,
Gypsy, and Mainland Turkey. The region has a strong tradition of
seasonal celebrations. Transitions from slow rhythms to faster rhythms,
from sadness to cheerfulness, reflect the bravery and the adaptable nature
of its immigrant people.
The next dance is called Ali
Pasa; it is named after one of the most famous Rom warriors in Ottoman
history. It is again traditionally performed at weddings and generally
preferred by older gentlemen. It is a listening melody that has free-meter
sections, which is called koyun sulanmasi, or giving water to the sheep,
due to the slow nature of the music. |
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Thenext dance is Nikriz Sitro.
Men at large gatherings and weddings traditionally perform it. It
contains intricate footwork and can be danced loosely, in a line, or in
a circle. The piece traditionally occurs at the end of wedding celebrations,
as a signal that it is time to disperse.
The final dance is Karsilama.
It means ''to go to meet someone" or ``get together.'' It can be
performed with both men and women. It has a very lively tempo.
The dance is performed in semi-circles, circles or lines. The dance
itself again contains figures that represent the dancers' happiness and
is traditionally performed on happy occasions. |
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