mariaclaradance: 2011

Maria Clara Suite

"Los Bailes de Ayer"

I. Introduction

During the Spanish period, Western European ways of life spread throughout the Islands. Along with them came European dances such as the waltz, fandango, mazurka, polka, and the jota. The Filipinos welcomed these dances and, by adding native flare and style, made them their own. Named in the honor of the heroine in Dr. Jose Rizal's novel, Noli me Tangere, the Maria Clara Suite captures the elegance and charm of the mestiza Filipina as well as the gallantry and boldness of the mestizo Filipino. Courtship, love, and flirtation are all evident in this suite of romantic dances.

II. Different Types of Maria Clara Dances

1. Aray- is a Filipinized form of the Spanish jota accompanied by sprightly steps. The dance, itself, is a flirtatious one that also involves the graceful use of tambourines by the women. The song is sang in old Ermiteño dialect.

2. Cariñosa- is a Philippine folk dance of Hispanic origin. It is closely associate with the island of Panay and the Visayas region in general. The word cariñosa is from the Spanish cariñosa meaning the affectionate one. This is a courtship dance that portrays acts of flirtation between a man and a woman. The dancers perform steps resembling hide-and-seek movements. The woman holds a handkerchief or sometimes a fan.

3. Chotis- this dance is classified under Maria Clara Dance. Chotis was one of the ballroom dancers introduced by early European settlers. This dance, from camarines sur, has been adapted by Bicolano people and is characterized by abrush-step-hop movement.

4. Imunan- (San Jacinto, Pangasinan) Imunan, a courtship dance, means jealousy. The dance depicts a love triangle; two girls and one boy. In this dance, the boy tries to please the girls who are trying their best to get his attention and favor. The boy shows an admirable attempt to please both girls by paying attention, flirting, and dancing with them, one after the other. The attempt is successful and at the end of the dance, all is sweetness and harmony among the three dancers.

5. La Estudiantina- (Antimonan, Quezon) Performed by the daughters of privileged Filipinos during their days at the convent schools. The "estudiantinas" or female students are seen holding a book in hand throughout this very gay and lively dance.

6. La Jota Manileña- (Manila) Originating from the capital city of Manila, La Jota Manileña is an adaptation of the Spanish jota. It is performed with the use of bamboo castanets.

7. Pampilpelalecan- (Pangasinan) Pampilpelale can means "to gently touch the palms." At the turn of the century, special dance gatherings meant to entertain out of town guests brought people together; an opportunity taken by love-struck gentlemen to look around for future partners. Though repressed by moral norms, ladies managed to throw meaningful glances at men, a message that drew each closer to each other. At last, when they stood face to face with hands barely touching, courtship was its most passionate. The amorous touch that may last even a moment is what Pampilpelalecan is all about; the pining and longing for a loved one.

8. Sinakiki- (Rapu-Rapu, Albay) Rapu-Rapu island is known for its lively fiesta's. During these celebrations, a playful and lively dance called the Sinakiki is performed. The Sinakiki illusrates the flirtatious movements of a rooster as his ladylove evades his every move.

9. Havanera de jovencita- A wedding party dance which originated in the town of Botolan in the Zambales Province. A graceful and beautiful habanera dance usually performed at a women's debut or wedding. Jovencita means "young lady" in Spanish.

10. Paseo de Iloilo- The most sophisticated courtship and flirtation dance of the Spanish Era. This dance portrays the men competing against each other in order to win the heart of a young lady.