A History of Dance in Spain – Costa Blanca Homeowners

Spain attracts people from all over the world to visit and many people find it so spell-binding that they buy a villa in the Costa Blanca so that they can call it Costa Blanca Homeowners. However, is it just the sun and beautiful scenery that brings us here to enjoy a life in Spain? There are, in fact, many other components all influenced by the countries past that brings us the fiestas, food wine and music that we enjoy today. The Spanish rythms inspire movement and joy of the dance with the rhythm of the guitars, drums, castinettes and clapping resonate in our memories even when we are away for Spain.

The Building Blocks of Dancing in Spain

Spanish dance is influenced by a variety of cultures and the history of those who have lived on the Spanish Peninsula over centuries. These include the Celts, Romans, Visigoths, Moors, and Jews who have all left their stamp upon the countries music and dance traditions. Ancient folk dances that were characterised by rhythmic footwork and hand clapping remain important and integral parts of all Spanish dances today for every region including the Costa Blanca.

The Moorish Contribution

During the period when Spain was occupied by the Moors their own culture left a legacy that can be seen today throughout Spanish culture including its dance forms. The Moors introduced complex rythms and new varieties of percussive instruments which blended well with existing Iberian traditional musice. This fusion together with elements of Arabic, Andalusian and Gypsy music paved the way for the birth of Flamenco. Moorish dancers of the Zambra who introduced elegant and sophisticated dances to Spain that were perfomed in the royal courts and indluced graceful movements, intricate footword and expressive gestures.

Flamenco – the Soul of Spanish Dance

Probably one of Spain’s most iconic and recognisable dances it originated in the southern regaion of Andalusia beginning as a passional expression of marginalised Gypsy communities. This dance form combines singing, guitar playing, dance and clapping and over time has evolved to include traditional Spanish folk music and elements the Arabic dances that originated in the Middle East and North Africa. Although mostly associated with the south of Spain, Flamenco has become internationally recognisable and has spread throughout the country. It is as a result often performed in the Costa Blanca as well as in other regions.

Sevilliana

This is another passionate dance which originated in the south but, has influenced dances and is performed all over Spain. It evolved from an old Castilian folk dance called Seguidilla which was influenced by Flamenco and fused to make the couples dance we can recognise today. It is usually danced in pairs and the theme is centred around love, country life, religious festivals and local traditions. Today it is often danced at celebrations, family gatherings and particularly at weddings. It is popularly danced in the Costa Blanca both in pairs and in groups and is characterised by colourful costumes and energetic footwork.

The Golden Age of Spanish Dance

During the 18th and 19th centuries Spanish dance experienced a golden period with the emergence of several iconic figures who helped ot shape the future of the art form in Spain. One of the most influential people of their time was Mariá del Carmen de Burgos who was nicknamed La Argentinita and who make Flamenco popular throughout the world elevating its status in the dancing world. During this time the folk dance that is seen frequently at Fiestas in the Costa Blanca the Jota emerged with variations seen of this dance in other Spanish regions too.

Classical Spanish Ballet

Spain has a tradition of ballet that combines classic ballet techniques with elements of traditional Spanish dances. The National Ballet of Spain was founded in 1978 byt Alicia Alonso who as a result is instrumental in preserving and promoting this unique blend. The company continues to showcase and innovate Spanish dance.

Modern and Contemporary Styles

Today Spanish dance continues to evolve and includes new contemporary styles and modern influences. Flamenco has seen a renewed popularity but, has been given a modern twist by upcoming choreographers. Nacho Duato is one of these who has pushed the boundris of Spanish dance blending techniques and modernity to create cutting-edge performances.

Regional Dance Traditions

Each region has its own traditions that reflect local culture and history. The lively Jota is a favourite in the Costa Blanca regiona and includes jumping steps with castanets. In Catalonia the communal circle dance Sardana symbolises unity and the Muñerca from Galicia is fast- paced and reflects the areas Celtic history. 

The Paso Doble

Strictly Come Dancing fans will have seen and heard about this dance every season even if they have never stepped foot on a dance floor themselves. It has been included as a competitive Latin ballroom dance but, has its roots in Spain probably originating in the 18th century and inspired by the music played at bullfights, the march like rhythm is lively and the dance mimics the movements of the matador and his cape or the bull itself. It is dynamic and dramatic.

Dance in the Costa Blanca

When we live in the Costa Blanca we can’t help but notice the vibrant festivals where music and dance play an important central role. Arabic influnces run through the Moors and Christians festivals and the Fandango, although another southern born dance, is regularly seen in the Costa Blanca along with the original Castilian Seguidilla all of which have variations which are unique to the Costa Blanca region. Most importantly, however, is the Jota Valenciana which is performed in pairs or groups and contains elegant and graceful movements, complex foot work, the use of castinets and accompanied by lively music. It is danced in most towns and villages in our regiona during fesitval in colourful costumes which will become easily recognisable to anyone who lives in the Costa Blanca.

Conclusion

The history of Spain can be seen throughout the country refelected in its food, traditions, food, music and dance. The heartbeat of Spain can be heard in the rythem of the drums, the tapping of feet, the clapping of hands and the castinets. The dances are passionate and elegant and a true reflection of all that we love about Spain.