History of Philippine Dance
There have been numerous types of folk dances that have come out of the Philippines. Many of them require expertise (in that a dancer should have great stability and a sense of rhythm), while others are simpler to learn. Some will use large props such as bamboo poles, while others are more simplistic and use hand-held props.
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History
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Historically, the majority of Philippine dances derived from popular European dances during the time of the Spanish regime. The Filipinos are known for dances such as Pandango Sa Ilaw, Binasuan, the Carinosa, and the folk dance Tinikling. Every district in the Philippine islands has its own established folk dance that is interpreted and used at festivals, local shows and other special gatherings.
Pandango Sa Ilaw
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Pandango originated from the Spanish dance fandango. This dance features lively steps and clapping while following a 3/4 time signature beat. Dancers of the Pandango must have efficient balancing skills to maintain the stability of three tinggoy (oil lamps) that are placed on the head and on the back of each hand. Pandango began in Lubang Island, Mindoro.
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Binasuan
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According to Camperspoint.com, the Binasuan (meaning "with the use of drinking glasses") is another dance that requires excellent balance. The Binasuan is similar to the Pandango Sa Ilaw. In the Binasuan dance, glasses are filled with rice wine and then placed on top of the head and on each hand of the dancer while he moves carefully. The Binasuan dance is used at weddings and fiestas.
Carinosa
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The word Carinosa describes an affectionate, lovable woman who can also be flirtatious. Female dancers perform the Carinosa using sexy body movements and fans and handkerchiefs that enable hide-and-seek movements.
The National Folkdance
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The Tinikling is known to the Filipinos as their national folk dance. It usually involves two dancers hopping between a pair of bamboo poles that are held inches above the ground and struck together in time to the music. Tinikling originated from Leyte Province, and visually mimics the movement of tinikling birds hopping over trees and from grass stem to grass stem. The dancers will jump between bamboo poles quickly like birds.
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