German Folk Dance and Songs (08-01-04)

One can never say that one has truly experienced another country’s culture or history unless one has taken part in the traditional dances. South Africans are known for their spirit and life and that was not lost, although being far away from home, as we eagerly learnt the German folk dances.

We were slowly introduced to the German folk dances, beginning with the easy ‘Fröhliches Kreis’ and then progressing to the derivatives of the ‘Polka’, and finally to the ‘Walzer’ and ‘Jägermarsch’.

Initially it was not easy, but as true South Africans we quickly learnt to adapt and soon we were dancing like true Baden-Württemberg locals, despite the fact that our circles were not always quite so circular, and steps not so smooth and elegant.

The traditional position of the man leading had to be forgone, as the girls took the lead in order to save our feet. And because the boys were also out-numbered, some of the girls had to declare manlihood and polka with one another, and very proudly indeed.

But nothing was enjoyed as much when Kgosi and I had to dress up in the traditional German dress; Kgosi in Lederhose and jacket, and I in white knitted socks, white frills, apron and plaited hair.

This German folk dance seminar did not lack the true South African enthusiasm to enjoy every moment of our German experience as we danced into each other, took two steps instead of three, and stood on each others toes. Thank you to Elisabeth and all those concerned for making this experience possible.

(Report by Inge-Lisa Rohlwink, University of Cape Town)