How to Dance With a Small Shawl in Flamenco Dancing

A small shawl is used as an accessory when dancing the flamenco. This shawl is also called a manton. You can find a manton online or use any small shawl so long as the length is slightly longer than your outstretched arms. You want to be able to move it easily over and around your head without snagging any hair pieces you will be wearing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Select your flamenco dancing shawl. Choose a shawl that is darker in color, as it will likely end up on the floor at some point. Be sure that it's slightly wider than your arms when you hold it outstretched to the sides.

2. Wrap the shawl around your shoulders. Sway your body back and forth to make the fringe move with you a little bit.

3. Hold the shawl in front of you. Grasp one corner in each hand and stretch your arms out to the sides. Make sure any design on the shawl is facing out.

4. Lift the shawl up over your head, keeping your arms outstretched. Move your arms in a circular motion to swing the shawl over your head and back down around to the starting position. Bend back slightly when lifting the shawl over your head to ensure clearance of your head and any flowers you're wearing in your hair.

5. Release one corner of the shawl and use the other arm to swing it over your head. As you continue dancing, turn your body along with the movement of your arms to further swing the shawl and show it off.

6. Catch the shawl in your other hand and bring it back around your shoulders. Do this in one smooth movement as you continue to dance your flamenco dance.