Can-Can
The Can-Can is a lively, high-energy dance that originated in the mid-19th century in Paris, France. Here are some key details about this iconic dance:
History
- The Can-Can first appeared in the 1830s at the Moulin Rouge, a cabaret famous for its dance performances. Initially, it was known as the Chahut or the Galop, which were lively dance forms in the ballrooms of Paris.
- It gained popularity in the 1840s when it was danced by the Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris, though in a more refined version than its later, more risqué forms.
- The dance was made famous by the music hall shows of the late 19th century, particularly at venues like the Folies-Bergère and the Moulin Rouge.
Characteristics
- Choreography: The Can-Can is characterized by high kicks, splits, and cartwheels, often performed by women in elaborate costumes. It's a dance that combines elements of the Polka, the Quadrille, and other lively dances of the time.
- Music: The dance is typically set to lively, upbeat music, often including pieces like Jacques Offenbach's "Infernal Galop" from his operetta Orpheus in the Underworld, which has become synonymous with the Can-Can.
- Attire: Dancers typically wear corsets, garters, and petticoats, with high boots or stockings, emphasizing the high-kick aspect of the dance.
Cultural Impact
- The Can-Can has had a significant cultural impact, influencing not just dance but also fashion, music, and theater. It was considered scandalous in its day due to the revealing nature of the costumes and the energetic, sometimes provocative movements.
- It has been depicted in numerous films, most notably in Moulin Rouge (1952) and Moulin Rouge! (2001), which used the dance to highlight the exuberance and decadence of the Parisian nightlife.
- Today, the Can-Can is still performed in revues and cabarets worldwide, maintaining its status as a symbol of Parisian nightlife and entertainment.
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