How to Dance the Fandango
The Fandango is a Spanish Dance which came to popularity in the 17th century. Perhaps it is Moorish. While the movements within the dance can be quite creative, a few things make the Fandango very specific. Here is how to dance the fandango.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Grab a partner of the opposite sex. This dance is meant to be one of sexual flirtation between 2 partners. Members of the opposite sex most commonly perform it; however, in certain parts of Europe in previous centuries it was more common for men to perform the dance with one another as a battle or duel dance.
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2
Use castanets, finger symbols or snap your fingers. One trademark of the fandango is the rhythm created by the dancers using one of these instruments. The percussion is usually kept to the beat of the music.
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3
Start slow with the dance. Another trademark of the Fandango is that it begins very slow and works itself into a whirlwind being performed at triple time. The faster the song, the more seductive it gets, until both partners find each other utterly irresistible.
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4
Hold frame at certain points in the dance. As the dance becomes faster, there are certain measures where suddenly everything stops and the two dancers "pose" holding their frame as if to taunt the other person and excite the crowd. At first, the position holds are slow and infrequent. As the music gets faster, so do the holds.
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5
Make your gestures specific toward your partner. Now that you have the parameters of the dance, be active with your performance. Create moves which entice, tease, flirt and ultimately succumb to the other person.
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Tips & Warnings
Rent traditional 17th century Spanish costumes from a costume shop to make your Fandango even more authentic.
