Damat Halayı translates as Groom Dance, and indeed it is a popular dance at Turkish weddings. It is also popular in general – as a party dance, and a children’s dance taught in schools. Most Turks think of it as a dance from Trakya (European Turkey); some Trakyans say it comes from Bulgaria, though there is no similar dance in Bulgaria. How it became so popular is a bit of a mystery, for it doesn’t seem to contain the kind of music or moves one associates with Turkey, especially the clapping. (folkdancefootnotes.org)
Cafe Shalom is a monthly Israeli Folk Dance party based in San Francisco. All levels of dance experience are welcomed. Guidance happily provided for beginners. More details…
Smile Dancers
Come enjoy our casual folk dance party and learn new dances with Smile Dancers!