Many sources on the history of choreography claim that Russian folk dance owes its appearance to the harsh Russian climate. Like, jumping and tricks that our dances are so rich in are nothing but a way to keep warm in the cold. Indeed, most of the national holidays and festivities in Russia used to take place only in late autumn and winter, when the old harvest was already harvested, and the time had not yet come for planting a new one.
Of course, this version has the
right to life. But, be that as it may, the Russian folk dance - the art is quite ancient. Its first mention in historical documents dates back to 907, that is, even before the
baptism of Russia. But when exactly the Russian people began to dance and what were their first dances, no one knows now. We can only assume that the Russian folk dance was originally of great ritual significance and symbolized a close sacred connection with nature. At least, such a judgment is made up of ancient national oral traditions, epics and songs.
It should be noted that the Russian folk dance very accurately reflects the way, temperament and character of the people. It can be argued that the reflection of reality is one of the features of the dance art of our ancestors. And this Russian folk dance stands out against the background of world dance culture.
The first sowing or harvesting in Russia has long been accompanied by all kinds of ceremonial actions. The round dance became their basis and smoothly turned into a classical dance for Russians. It can be argued that it is round dance that is the forefather of our national dance art. Based on his motives, dances have been created for centuries, which are still considered bright examples of national choreography.
The Russian folk dance “Kalinka” is not a round dance, it is a
dance. A dance that appeared, breaking the circuit of the dance, so to speak. Dance is the best way to demonstrate the fun, cheerfulness, boldness and breadth of the soul of a person characteristic of all Slavic peoples. But absolutely all Russian dances are also filled with deep lyrical meaning, however, like the fun of a Russian person always echoes sadness. Another famous example of classical dance is the Russian folk dance “Lady”.
These and other Russian dances are a special art. Dancers, like theater actors, play a role in the production. They tell an entertaining life story. They tell vividly, colorfully, using not only body movements, but also facial expressions and gestures. Russian dances are humor and laughter, somersaults and jumps, groovy dances that look especially impressive against the backdrop of bright national costumes.
It is important that in Russian national dances the masculine and feminine principles are clearly traced. The man is energetic and courageous, the woman is stately and proud. Stories in songs about Great Russia, good tsars and valiant heroes who have accompanied Russian dances for centuries have made them part of the history of the Fatherland.
Interest in Russian folk dance has never fallen, either in Russia or in foreign countries. And today, many choreographic schools, among the whole variety of dances, prefer to focus on Russian folk - art that has been tested for more than one hundred years.