Though there was much work to do in an Acadian's daily life, there were also special times to relax. Spring plantings, fall harvests and building houses for newlyweds were wonderful opportunities for festive celebrations. Acadians enjoyed song, dance and storytelling. The "Branle de Cheval" (Horse's Brawl) is a centuries-old partner dance typical of those the Acadians would have done. It has many variations and is still danced today.
Step 1: BRANLE DOUBLE
Partners begin facing each other, holding both hands.
Counts 1, 2 Step Left Foot to Left, Step Right Foot next to Left, Counts 3, 4 Step Left Foot to Left, Touch Right next to Left Counts 5, 6 Step Right Foot to Right, Step Left Foot next to Right
Counts 7,8 Step Right Foot to Right, Touch Left next to Right
This Branle Double would be done 4 complete times (total of 32 counts) to make a full clockwise circle back to the original starting positions. Take larger steps and slightly forward when moving to the left, smaller steps when moving to the right to line back up with partner, moving around in a clockwise circle.
Step 2: MAN
(Lady stands with her hands on hips and watches man.)
Counts 1, 2 Man Taps Right Foot 2 times
Counts 3, 4 Simple Right: Step Right Foot to Right, Touch Left next to Right Foot
Counts 5 - 8 Double Left: 4 Steps (Left, Right, Left, Right)
making full couterclockwise circle Step 3: LADY
(Man stands with hands on hips and watches lady.) Counts 1,2 Lady Taps Right Foot 2 times in place
Counts 3, 4 Simple Right: Step Right Foot to Right, Touch Left Foot next to Right
Counts 5 - 8 Double Left: 4 Steps (Left, Right, Left, Right)
making full counterclockwise circle
ENJOY!
Compliments Trans World Dance Company, transworld@ns.sympatico.ca
