Sardana: Catalan Circle Dance Steps

A traditional dance from Catalonia performed in an open circle, holding hands, that anyone may join. Dancers alternate short steps (curts) with arms down and long steps (llargs) with arms raised. Students work on rhythm, listening and cooperation.

How to play

1. Explain (2 min) that the sardana is danced in town squares across Catalonia to the music of a cobla band, and the circle is open to anyone who wants to join.
2. Curts in place (3 min): in a circle, holding hands with arms down, step left, close, step right, close, counting out loud.
3. Llargs (4 min): the same pattern with longer steps, crossing the foot in front, and arms raised to shoulder height.
4. Make 3 circles of about 8 and play the music: one student is the counter and calls when it's curts and when it's llargs; everyone changes arm position together (6 min).
5. Joining the circle: a student waits until a section ends and steps in between two dancers without breaking hands abruptly.
6. Finale (5 min): the 3 circles join into one big circle and dance a full sardana.

Rules

• Join the circle only at the end of a section.
• Arms go up and down together, without pulling neighbors.
• Follow the counter's calls.
• Stay shoulder to shoulder without pushing.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a wheelchair user marks the rhythm with arms and upper body while neighbors shorten their steps.
• Hearing impairment: the counter signals each change with a hand squeeze passed around the circle.
• Fitness level: students who tire serve as counter for one section, then rejoin.

Learning goals

• Coordinate steps with the music and with classmates.
• Appreciate the sardana as a Catalan dance open to everyone.
• Follow the cues of a classmate who leads.

Equipment for a class of 25

• music: 1

Teacher tip

Choose short sardanas made for schools and practice without music until the circle keeps the beat. The usual mistake is raising the arms late: ask for them to go up on the first llarg step.

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