MODULE 22: Troika (Russian Peasant)

I.                    Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to:

a.       define the Russian Dance “Troika”;

b.      explain the history of the Russian Dance “Troika”; and

c.       execute the steps of “Troika”.

II.                  Overview:

Troika is the Russian word for “third”, or “threesome”. Its most common meaning was actually in reference to a commission of three judges used in Stalinist Russia. A traditional Russian folk dance however is also named Troika, after the graceful prancing of three horses as they pull a long sleigh. This Russian folkdance is a staple of Russian dancing culture.

III.                Learning Content:

HOW TO DANCE TROIKA

1.       Break into groups of three. All of the dancers form a circle, with the groups of three positioned as if they were spokes in a wheel. Groups face counterclockwise, and join hands.

2.       While holding hands, run forward for four steps on a right diagonal (R, L, R, L).

3.       Run four steps forward on a left diagonal (R, L, R, L).

4.       Run forward for eight counts that complete the first section, for total of sixteen counts. à FIRST SECTION (16 COUNTS)

1.       This section lasts for 8 counts. Continue to hold hands. For each group, the dancers in the center and on the left form an arch with their arms. The person on the right in front of the center person and under the arch, then behind the center person and back to their original spot. The person in the center turns in place, to the left, under the arch. Everyone now faces forward.

2.       This sequence takes 8 counts, as well. The dancer on the left repeats the previous step, running through the arch formed by the dancer in the center and on the right.

3.       The center dancer turns to the right, following the person from the left under the arch. à SECOND SECTION (16 COUNTS)

1.       Groups of three join hands, again, to reform their circle. Run 12 steps CW to the L, beginning with the L foot. After 12 steps, the dancers stamp their feet 3 times (L, R, L). Pause for a count.

2.       Repeat, this time running CCW for 12, starting with the R foot. Stamp 3 times (R, L, R). Pause for a count.

3.       All groups of three return to the original circle (the spokes-in-a-wheel formation). The center dancer moves to the group in front of them, and the dance starts all over again. à THIRD SECTION (32 COUNTS)