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Folk Dance Federation of California, South, Inc.
By Stephanie Holzmn |
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The Scandia Dancers of Southern California perform dances from the Scandinavian countries of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Greenland, and the Nordic countries of Finland and Iceland. We perform in traditional costumes, many hand-made by the dancers, and dance to music that uses traditional and regional instruments. Each country has its own specific styling, dance steps, and formations; and every region within each country has its own long-established history of costumes. Because of these differences, we have learned a large number of dances and own a variety of costumes in order to properly represent each country.
The Scandia Dancers group was formed in 1984 by renowned folk dancer, Donna Tripp, and since then, has performed extensively throughout southern California including, but not limited to Disney Hall, Folk Dance Statewide performances, Soka University, Ikea, MGM/FIDM, the Queen Mary, Norwegian Lodges, weddings, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and events at elementary and middle schools. Internationally, the group has appeared in major festivals in Norway at the Folkmusikkedagarna i Ål, Hallingdal; and in Finland at the Pispalan Sottisi in Tampere, and the Holla ja Martta, in Lahti.
Currently, the Scandia Dancers of Southern California perform upon request. During performances, we discuss the similarities and differences of each countries' dances, provide an overview of the costumes such as the types of shoes, embroidery, jewelry, and particular styles of fabrics indicative to the region worn by the dancers. We can include audience participation in simple dances as part of our performance. To learn more about the Scandia Dancers and/or to book a performance, please contact Stefanie Holzman, Director, via email at sholzman1@verizon.net.