Dance Forms and Their Significance

Types of Dance

• Creative Rhythm: Results from exploration and improvisation, helps children learn body movement and expression.
• Folk/Ethnic Dance: Cultural dances that transmit customs, beliefs, and rituals across generations.
• Social and Ballroom Dance: Performed at formal social gatherings, requiring evening attire, characterized by structured formats.
• Recreational Dance: Informal dances such as mixers and square dances, often featuring simple step combinations.
• Creative Dance: Represents personal feelings and interpretations through movement, with defined structures including beginnings and endings.

Francisca Reyes Aquino

• Known as the "Mother of Philippine Folk Dances" for her efforts in preserving and promoting Filipino dance culture.
• Awarded the National Artist for Dance by President Marcos in 1973.

History of Dance in the Philippines

• Introduced with Magellan's arrival in 1521.
• Notable groups: Pygmies, Indonesians, Malays, and Negritos.
• Sinulog: The first dance, a primitive duel dance using bolos.
• Early dance was a religious act, performed by priests for thanksgiving and blessings.
• Spanish colonization saw dance become vital in social life; Komintang is one of the oldest dances.

Classification of Philippine Folk Dance

• National Dances: Traditional dances common throughout the Philippines with minor variations.
• Local/Regional Dances: Specific to certain regions.
• Occupational Dances: Reflect aspects of specific occupations and labor.
• Religious or Ceremonial Dances: Associated with religious ceremonies and vows.
• Courtship and Wedding Dances: Depict themes of love or celebrate marriage.
• Festival Dances: Performed during celebrations and harvests.
• War Dances: Represent combat scenarios, incorporating implements like bolos and spears.
• Comic Dances: Feature humorous movements for entertainment.
• Game Dances: Incorporate play elements, promoting recreation.

Fundamental Dance Positions

• Feet Position:

  • First Position: Feet in a V-shape, heels together.
  • Second Position: Feet parallel and spaced 12 inches apart.
  • Third Position: One foot's heel touches the other foot's arch, toes turned outward.
  • Fourth Position: One foot forward while other remains back; feet spaced 12 inches apart.
  • Fifth Position: Heel of one foot touches the toe of the other, both pointing outward.

• Arms Formation:

  • First Position: Arms in a circle at chest level.
  • Second Position: Arms extended sideways at shoulder level.
  • Third Position: One arm raised, other in the second position.
  • Fourth Position: One arm forward at chest level while the other remains up.
  • Fifth Position: Both arms raised above the head.

Common Dance Terms

• Abresete: Girl holds partner’s arm; Spanish origin.
• Bilao: Palms alternate turning up and down at waist level.
• Clockwise/Counter-Clockwise: Directions of movement in relation to an imaginary circle.
• Do-si-do: Partners advance, pass, and return to positions.
• Hapay: To flourish or offer a hand; a sign of invitation.
• Saludo: Partners bow to one another or the audience; a customary greeting.

Dance Movements and Techniques

• Hop: Spring from one foot landing on the same foot.
• Slide: Glide one foot while transferring weight.
• Leap: Spring off one foot in various directions.
• Stamp: Forcefully bring the foot down on the ground.
• Pivot: Turn on a fixed point maintained by the foot.

This structured overview encapsulates essential elements of Philippine folk dance history, classifications, and techniques, providing a comprehensive study resource.

Explore the various types of dance forms including creative rhythms, folk/ethnic dance, and social and ballroom dance. This quiz delves into how these dances communicate cultural expressions and the importance of movement in self-expression. Test your knowledge about the significance and characteristics of different dance styles.