TRAKIJSKA RAČENICA

Western Thrace, Central Bulgaria

Source:	A typical line Račenica representative of the steps and movements of western Thrace.

Rhythm:	7/16 (Račenica) counted 1, 2, 3 or Q, Q, S (1-2, 1-2 1-2-3)

Music:	Any slower Thracian Račenica.

Formation:	Mixed or segregated lines of men and women, hands joined up ("W" hold).

Style:	A slightly heavy dance with bent knees and a loose but controlled upper body. Arm movements should be large and comfortable.

Meas	Ct	The Dance

Start with weight on L foot, facing R ready to move R

1	1-2	Step forward (line of direction) onto R bending both legs

3	Rise Up slightly with weight on R, lifting L foot just barely off floor

2	REPEAT measure 1 with opposite footwork

3	Basic Račenica Step (travelling)

1	Continuing to move forward (line of direction), Step on R

2	Step on L beside and slightly in front of R

3	Step on forward on R, bending R knee slightly

4	REPEAT measure 3 with opposite footwork

5	1-2	Turn to face center, Step sideward to R onto R, lowering arms

3	Step on L behind R, swinging arms down and back

6	1-2	Step sideward to R onto R, raising arms

3	Slight Lift on R bringing L knee beside R leg (R heel comes down on beat)

7	1-2	Step straight forward (toward center) onto R

3	Slight Lift on L bringing R knee beside L leg (L heel comes down on beat)

8	1-2	Step straight back onto R

3	Slight Lift on R hanging L leg beside R leg (R heel comes down on beat)

9	1-2	Still facing center and moving L, Touch L foot sideward to L, taking weight at the last moment

3	Step on R behind L

10	REPEAT measure 9

11-14	REPEAT measures 5-8 with opposite footwork

15	Basic Račenica Step (in place)

1	Step on R in place, bending R knee

2	Touch L in place beside R, just barely taking weight

3	Small Leap in place onto R, bending R knee slightly

16	REPEAT measure 15 with opposite footwork

Dance Description by Tom Deering

Presented by Tom Deering