The Transformation of Greek “Traditional” Dance in the Contemporary Urban Environment: Insights from the Case of Cretan Dances – A Review

Tsoumos, I., P.^1*, Douka, St.², Avgerinos, A.³, Filippou, F.¹, Fragkakis, G.⁴.

¹School of Physical Education and Sport Science. Democritus University of Thrace.
Campus, 69100, Komotini
²School of Physical Education and Sport Science. Aristotle University of Thessaloniki,
Thermi, 57001, Thessaloniki
³European University Cyprus School of Sciences, 6, Diogenous Str, 2404 Engomi,
Nicosia, Cyprus
⁴Department of Philology, School of Philosophy, Division of Folklore Studies, National and
Kapodistrian University of Athens, University Campus, 157 72, Zografou, Athens

*Contact Corresponding Author:

Abstract

The issue of “authenticity” has been a focal point of scholarly debate, particularly as Greek “traditional” dance is mediated through teaching and reproduction within urban cultural associations. Dance performance forms, shaped by aesthetic and functional choices, are reinterpreted in new contexts, with Cretan dances serving as a representative example. The preference for specific, recognizable patterns over less widespread variants raises questions of cultural management. The purpose of this review is to examine the transformation of Greek “traditional” dance in contemporary urban contexts, focusing on teaching and performance practices, through the lens of the distinction between the “first” and the “second” existence of dance; Cretan dances are used as an illustrative case, with reference to associations in Attica where relevant. Their role emerges as critical in urban settings, not only as transmitters of technique but also as mediators of cultural meaning. This highlights the need for further interpretive research into how these transformations are negotiated in practice.
Keywords: Greek “traditional” dances; urban environment; teaching; performance; Cretan dances