Five Hundred Years of Dance

People have danced throughout all of history. The dances of each era tell fascinating stories about what life was like at the time.

The association Historiedansarna (The History Dancers) will showcase dances from the 1400s to the late 1800s. There will also be presentations of the period costumes. If you want to try dancing yourself, you are more than welcome—we will guide you through the steps!

Program

1—1.15 pm Welcome

A brief introduction to dance as a community and social gathering point throughout history.

1.15—1.45 pm Late Middle Ages and Renaissance (15th–16th Century)

• Performance: Circle dances and group dances in procession.
• A look at some of the costumes.
• Try it yourself: Almost like Midsummer — a simple group circle dance.

1.45—2.15 pm Baroque (17th Century)

• Performance: Ceremonial and stylized group dances—the ABCs of court etiquette!
• Learn about Baroque costumes and style ideals.
• Try it yourself: Greet the King and dance on your toes!

2.15—2.30 pm Break

Hydrate, rest, and a chance to take a closer look at the costumes.

2.30—3 pm 18th Century

• Performance: Playful dances from the court and the common folk.
• Costume presentation: Learn about new times and new clothes.

• Try it yourself: We’ll try a “longway” dance!

3—3.50 pm 19th Century – Bourgeoisie Dances

• Performance: How they danced in the parlors of the bourgeoisie — including the "sinful" waltz!
• Costume presentation: Learn about changing cuts and the functionality of the clothing.
• Try it yourself: Dance like Mr. Darcy — we’ll perform a group dance from the era of Jane Austen!

3.50—4 pm Conclusion

Learn more about upcoming dance activities from Historiedansarna and the City Museum.

Participants

• Loth Hammar and Olof Rosengren, Historiedansarna, leading the dance.
• Magdalena J. Hammar, costume historian and art historian, associated with the Royal Armoury and the National Museum.
• Dancers from Historiedansarna and other historical dance associations.