The Chilean National Dance is called “La Cueca” and it has been performed since 1824. Long time ago, in the very beginnings, it was played with haps and guitars. Locals specially designed a place for the dancers to make their magic. Some folk specialized students affirm the origins and name of this dance comes from an imitation of the chicken’s movement when it’s being courted by the rooster. The men’s dance mimics the bird’s fight for its beloved one and the girl’s dance steps try to copy the defensive posture of the chick.

INVITATION

"The man invites the lady to dance a “pie de Cueca"

A WALK

"Following the music’s rhythm, the couple takes a small walk through the dance floor"

FACE TO FACE STARTING

"Once they finish the walk, the couple stands facing each other and only starts dancing when the singing begins"

STARTING WITH A TURN

"The couple starts with a big turn to the right and then coming back again to the starting point"

ESCOBILLADO

"Half-moon movement. The man follows the lady according to the side she chooses to begin with. The dance step (escobillado) is quite smooth. Both dancers slightly drag their toes crossing legs"

FIRST TURN

"When the music suggests it there will be a turn (“vuelta”). The couple gently split and start making an eight figure to start on the place previously occupied by the other"

CUECA AFTER THE FIRST TURN

"Once again, they’ll make a half-moon movement. But this time, they will follow a more intense rhythm"

SECOND TURN

"When shouting “vuelta” both dancers return to their original places. The rhythm reaches its maximum intensity and the tap (“zapateo”) starts"

TAP

"Still half-moon positioned the man strongly hits the floor with its shoe hills. The lady does the same but much more gently"

APPROACHING TURN

"When shouting “vuelta”, the couple stops the “zapateo” and makes a circle movement until meeting in the middle of the dance floor"

FINAL BEGINNING

"The couple stays together in the middle of the dance floor. This last dance step must match the last musical notes"