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How do I Learn Kandyan Dance?

Kandyan dance is the most well-known art form of Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia off the coast of India. It was passed down through royal courts for centuries, and had its heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries. It remained largely unknown in other parts of the world until the 20th century, when it was popularized by famous Kandyan dancers such as Chitrasena. Kandyan dance is a mesmerizing, energetic art that most people can learn with practice.

Things You'll Need

  • Athletic clothing
  • Traditional kandyan dance music
  • An experienced instructor (preferred but not required)
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Instructions

  1. Basic Steps

    • 1

      Take a low stance with the knees bent deeply at 90 degrees and the toes pointed out to the side, arms raised to shoulder height. Raise each leg to the side, then bring it down and raise the other leg. Straighten the legs to a 45-degree angle and make quick, alternating steps with the toes pointed out.

    • 2

      Bend your knees deeply and take a step forward with the right leg, then the left. Repeat, moving backward to your original position. In the same low stance, move slowly in a circle, alternating your weight from one foot to the other.

    • 3

      Shift your weight to your left leg and kick your right leg across your body to the left, so that your body makes a twirling motion. Bring the right leg all the way around in a full circle as you pivot your body on your left foot. Let your right leg come around and touch down where you were originally standing.

    Twirls and Jumps

    • 4

      Stand with knees bent deeply at 90 degrees, left leg to the front, right leg to the back. Raise your left knee and twirl clockwise as you bring your leg around in a full circle. Let your weight pivot around on your right foot, and bring your leg back to the original position.

    • 5

      Stand with your knees slightly bent, feet shoulder-width apart, arms out to the side at shoulder level. Take two running steps forward and jump off your left foot, kicking your right leg out in front. Quickly bend your right knee and kick your left foot up behind you as your right leg comes down. This jump should look like you are rocking forward in the air.

    • 6

      Stand with your knees slightly bent, feet wider than shoulder width. Step with your left leg across your right leg, so that your legs are crossed for a moment. Kick your right leg out from behind your left leg and jump off your left foot. Spread your legs in the air, then land on your right foot and bring your left leg behind your right leg.

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