Tsamikos

History

A very popular Greek dance.

Rhythm

The rhythm is slow-quick (2-1) all the way through.

Steps

Start in a line, facing centre, with arms in a W hold. A shoulder hold is probably more traditional but this is how I've seen it done.

Step to the side with the right foot (slow), then step across in front with the left (quick). Do this three times.

Step to the side with the right (slow), then lift the left in front and slightly across (quick).

Step to the side with the left foot (slow), then step across in front with the right (quick).

Step to the side with the left (slow), then lift the right in front and slightly across (quick).

Variation

This is a version I learnt from Anna Barton.

Start in a line facing to the right.

Step forward with the right (slow), then step forward with the left (quick).

Sharply turn to face centre and close the right beside the left (slow), then take a very small step to the side with the right and close with the left (both steps fit in a quick beat).

Turn to face right and step forward with the right (slow), then the left (quick), then the right (slow). Turn to face centre and lift the left in front and slightly across (quick).

Turn to face left and step forward with the left (slow), then turn to face centre and lift the right in front and slightly across (quick).

Music

Čamiko from In The Orange Grove by Xenos

Saranda Palikaria and Pios Ehi Dio Agapitikes from Return To Our Roots by Jim Stoyanoff