2-time bourrée

This French dance classic is a direct descendant of the branle circle dances. It is now danced in many forms in different areas of central France. The style described below is the Bourbonnais style most commonly danced in 'bals' throughout Europe but similar bourrées are danced in the Auvergne, Berry, Nivernais and Morvan regions, each with their own distinct variations. The word bourrée means 'drunk' in modern French slang but was once used to describe bundles of sticks in rural France. If anyone knows which of these, if either, gave the dance its name I'd be grateful for information.

Form of the Dance

The 2-time bourrée is popularly danced in a 'longways set' with men facing women across the room, about 3 or 4 feet apart. The style is loose and relaxed with slightly bent knees and relaxed arms. The dance comes in two parts: in the A-section, everyone moves forward into the centre and then back to place 4 times. In the B-section, everyone moves forward and then carries on crossing into their partner's place. Plenty of eye contact is essential, if a little unnerving for those of a more British temperament.

Steps

The bourrée starts on the left foot, as do most French group dances but in contrast to most English social dancing. As you go forwards on the left, aim slightly to the right of your partner and turn slightly to face them on the right step.

A - Section

L - Fairly long step with the left foot
Rlr - Medium length step with the right foot and a small 'push' with the left foot before dropping back onto the right foot.

Beat (Bar)	1	2	3	4
Beat	L forwards	Rlr	L Back	Rlr

Repeat 4 times in total.
The style is relaxed and natural, but can be fairly brisk.

B-Section

The step is the same but travelling to a different place.
Beat 1 - move forwards to face your partner as above, turning slightly left to face them.
Beat 2 - continue forwards to your partner's place, turning about a three-quarter turn to the right to face back towards them. Repeat 4 times in total.

Music

There are loads of tunes and songs out there for bourrées. The music is in 2/4 with the emphasis on the main beats (1, 2, 3, 4 above: The first beats of each bar.)

Variations and Improvisation

One of the delights of the bourrée is the room for improvisation. One partner can follow the other's steps in a game of 'chase'. Extra turns and spins can be thrown in as well as a million other variations. The challenge is to develop an understanding with your partner so neither dancer needs to say what variation they're going to do next. Advancing more suddenly towards your partner, angling your body differently or spinning further can be used as clues as to what you're going to do next and in any case it's always funnier if it all goes horribly wrong.

Copyright

Text and images copyright (2004) Graham Knapp/Les Panards Dansants. Please contact graham@frenchdanceleeds.co.uk to arrange permission for copying and reproduction. Many thanks.