Russian Gypsy Dance

If you take a closer look at gypsy dancing in Europe, you will see that only three types that are well developed: Russian, Balkan and Spanish gypsy dances.The Russian gypsy dance is one of the most vibrant and expressive type of gypsy dances, along with Balkan and Spanish. The other gypsy groups, of course, also have their own dances, but these are less outstanding.

Female gypsy dance is followed by intricate footwork, arm movements, aberdevine, wide skirt swings, shoulder shimmies and floor work. This dance is characterised by a smooth slow start, then gradually tempo increases with the lush, fast ending. Russian gypsy dance appeared as the interpretation of Russian folk dance in the XIX century and since then has developed considerably, complemented also with other elements.

The stage version of the typical female gypsy dance has some finger and wrist movements, borrowed from Flamenco; flowing arm movements; shaking shoulders and wrists; special hair swinging; and deflection of the body, borrowed from the Central Asian and Oriental dance.    

Men usually do tap dancing, clap over their bodies and legs to the beat, and wave their arms like wings. In many movements we can see Russian roots. Russian gypsy dance is very bright, dynamic and entertaining. After all, where there are Romas (gypsies), there is always fun, dancing and singing. All this is usually accompanied by singing, playing the guitar, violin and tambourines. Gypsy dance is bright not because of its technical side, but for its improvisation, freedom, energy and passion. In gypsy performance, the costume also has great importance because of its brightness, saturation and vivid colours. Colourful female tops and skirts are dominated by bright colours such as red, black, bright green, yellow, pink and purple. Gypsy women wear coin necklaces, big earrings, bracelets and flowers in their hair. Russian gypsies tie their waists with the flourish shawl, with a fringe or a coin belt on top of the skirt. The skirt is very wide, decorated with ruffles, allowing it to swing, creating waves and curls. It can be raised above the head.

Men usually wear a silk shirt of bright red or crimson colours, tied with a wide black belt, vest over a shirt, dark pants and a black hat, and shoes specifically for tap dancing. Usually, men play musical instruments and sing. They rarely dance but they too play a leading role in celebrations.

Gypsy shows are a beautiful, bright, energetic spectacle that can cheer everyone up and add an unforgettable flavour to any celebration.