(HELL-sing-eh POHL-ska)

Skandia CD, track 35

NOMENCLATURE

ETHNO-CULTURAL ATTRIBUTES

MUSICAL ATTRIBUTES

CHOREOLOGICAL ATTRIBUTES

THE DANCE ROUTINE

As with all regional ethnic dances there are no specified number of measures for each variation.

Introduction:

The dance begins with the M escorting the W onto the dance floor, arm-in-arm, logically using an open polska step to match the music (M begins with L, W with R foot).  When the M chooses, he transitions to the CW polska turn.

Polska Turn:

Man's step:

By the end of Count 1 of the previous measure, the M is facing out from the center of the hall, facing but slightly ahead of the partner.

• Count 1:  Step L making ¼ turn CW.  The step is at an angle, across in front of partner.
• Count 2:  Set R close to the L and bend knees lightly, and pivoting ¼ turn CW. M now faces the center of the hall.
• Count 3:  Facing almost LOD, push off L foot while stepping forward on R (toe between W's feet), ½ turn with a gentle bounce.

Each polska step should begin facing in the same direction.  In other words, each measure makes a complete turn.  Cue: L, Both, R.

Woman's step:

• Count 1:  Start facing almost LOD, place R parallel to L ("Both").
• Count 2:  Step R ahead (between M's feet) while turning ¼ to the R with a light bending of the knees.
• Count 3:  While turning ½ R, take a long step forward (around the M) with the L.

While turn is in motion, placing the R parallel to L ("Both") becomes a continuation and completion of each rotation, such that W is always facing LOD (or nearly LOD) as she begins each turn with Both.  Cue: Both, R, L.

Resting:

According to the M's choice, the dance can shift into the resting part.  Maintaining polska hold, M and W dance to the left of each other, the M usually faces LOD, light running steps, one step to a beat.  M starts with L, W with R.

The M indicates the transition to polska turn by stamping his R foot on the beat just before the start of the turn.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

(none)