These dances are done by the Laz people, an ethnic minority of Turks who inhabit this region. The Muslim and Orthodox dances tend to be somber and constrained, whereas the Catholic dance, Misnjaca, adds a brighter note to the suite. Listen for the unusual dissonances common to Bosnian singing. In Bulgaria, the Horoto is the village square where people go to meet, sing, play music and dance. Praznik is the Bulgarian word for a festival or celebration.
Dancers are happy, relaxed and enjoy the music and dance as they enjoy each other's company.
The dancers like to tease, flirt and show-off while they dance. Sallie Varner Dances from three regions of northeastern Croatia. The first four dances are from Slavonia, these dances are very characteristic of Croatian dances, with lots of happy Tamburica music, singing and interesting footwork. The middle two dances are from the region of Medgimurje, a region along the border between Croatian and the old Austro-Hungarian Empire. This region has seen much military activity over the centuries and the dances tend to reflect this by being heavier than typical Croatian dances and more militaristic in styling.