What Is the Typical Dance of Madrid?

By Anna Duncan

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is known for its vibrant culture and colorful traditions. One of the most popular and typical dances in Madrid is the Chotis. This dance has been around for more than a century and continues to be an important part of Madrid’s cultural identity.

What Is Chotis?

Chotis is a dance that originated in Bohemia in the 19th century but quickly became popular in Madrid. It is a lively dance that is performed by couples and features a distinct rhythm and steps.

The Steps

The Chotis dance consists of three basic steps: the pasodoble step, the waltz step, and the mazurka step. The pasodoble step involves taking two steps to the side while lifting one foot up and tapping it on the ground.

The waltz step involves moving forward or backward while stepping to the side with each foot alternately. The mazurka step involves hopping on one foot while kicking out with the other foot.

The Music

The music for Chotis is typically played by an accordion or a bandoneon along with other traditional instruments such as drums, castanets, and guitars. The tempo of the music is usually moderate to fast-paced, which makes it a fun dance to perform.

The Costume

Traditionally, men wear black suits with white shirts and black ties while women wear full skirts that flare out when they spin around. Women also wear shawls over their shoulders or around their necks.

Where Can You See Chotis Performed?

If you’re visiting Madrid, you can see Chotis performed at various festivals throughout the year such as San Isidro Festival in May or Verbena de la Paloma Festival in August. You can also check out some of the local dance schools and clubs that offer Chotis lessons and performances.

Conclusion

Chotis is a lively and fun dance that has been an important part of Madrid’s culture for more than a century. It’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant traditions and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage. So, put on your dancing shoes and join in the fun!