Messaritikos

History

A Greek dance from the island of Kythira. Very similar to the Cretan syrtos. I learnt this from Cindy Kelly and Adrian Pointon in 2007.

Rhythm

The music is in an even 4/4 rhythm with the steps in a 2-1-1 (slow, quick, quick) pattern.

Steps

Start in a line, arms in a W hold, facing centre.

Brush forward with the left foot (slow).

Cross behind with the left, step to the side with the right, cross in front with the left (quick, quick, slow).

Cross in front with the right, step to the side with the left, cross in front with the right again (quick, quick, slow).

Replace the left, step to the side with the right, cross in front with the left (quick, quick, slow).

Close with the right (slow).

The dance can start at the beginning of any musical phrase.

Music

Sorry, I have no information about the music.

Dance description by Andy Bettis 10/2007