Ciganko

History

A Rom dance from Bulgaria. I learnt it from David Roberts in July 2007.

Rhythm

The dance is in an even 4/4 rhythm.

Steps

Start in a line with arms in a W hold, facing right.

Part 1

Step forward with the right, then the left, both slow.
Turning to face centre step to the side with the right, cross behind with the left, step to the side with the right, cross in front with the left, all quick steps.
Step to the side and sway with the right, then sway to the left, both slow steps.
Step to the side with the right heel, then cross behind with the left foot, both quick steps. Do this twice.

Do the first part four times.

Part 2

All the steps in the second part are quick.

Lift the right foot, then step forward with the right. Lift the left foot, then step forward with the left.
Take four steps forward, starting with the right. (You have just done a step forward, make sure the last step forward is on the left!)
Lift the right foot, step to the side with the right, cross in front with the left, replace the right. Repeat this to the left.

Lift the right foot, then step back with the right. Lift the left foot, then step back with the left.
Take four steps back, starting with the right.
Lift the right foot, step to the side with the right, cross in front with the left, replace the right. Repeat this to the left.

There is a 2-phrase introduction, the dance starts with the singing.

Music

Ciganko from Balkan Spirit 8 produced by David Roberts.

Dance description by Andy Bettis 07/2007