Långdans

Långdans, or long dance, is a form of social dance that is an important part of Swedish folk dance tradition. It is performed by many couples arranged in one or more long lines or rows, in contrast to ring dances where participants form circles. The format emphasizes group coordination and a shared sequence of steps that can be repeated as the line moves through the hall.

In a typical långdans, couples face inward along the line and hold either hands or forearms. A leader or caller signals the figures, and all couples execute a common set of steps and figures. The dance often involves a progression where the line moves slowly around the dance space, though some versions keep its position while the figures circulate within the line. The steps can include forward, backward, and side movements, with occasional turns or switches of partners within the line.

Music for långdans is usually traditional Swedish folk tunes performed on fiddle, accordion, or other regional instruments. Repertoire commonly features polska, slängpolska, and other dance tunes, selected to suit the tempo and the size of the participants. The tempo ranges from moderate to lively, designed to maintain cohesion among many dancers.

Historically, långdans has been a feature of rural dances, folk festivals, and community celebrations since the 19th century. Variants exist across different regions, reflecting local dance vocabularies and social customs. Today, långdans remains a teaching staple in folk dance communities and cultural associations, serving as a vehicle for communal dancing and social interaction at Swedish cultural events.