07 September 2010 By Stelios 0
Katsa kleftiki was danced by kleftes, sarakatsani rebels during the period Greece was occupied by Turkish. This dance represents the free spirit of the rebels and their dedication to fight against the occupation of their country. This explains why the first dancer is given plenty of time to perform on his own and make difficult figures that show off his bravery, courageousness and pride.
Katsa kleftiki has 8 steps and their main characteristic is the deep squats (katses) giving the name to the dance. Katsa kleftiki is danced by both men and women. However, women follow men and dance the same steps in a more reserved way, as required by their sarakatsani traditiondo. Legs are crossed over before the dance starts indicating that this is a kleftikos (rebellious) dance.
Roumpis, G. 1993. Elliniki Hori. Athens, Greece: Smpilias publishers.
