Zeibekiko

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Zeybekiko is a traditional, improvisational folk dance from Greece. The Zeibekiko dance is common in Greece and areas around the world with large Greek populations. Throughout history it has been know as an intensely personal dance. Only one man at a time may dance it. If another got up, it would be a cause for conflict and possible violence. However, in the 21st century a certain dance etiquette has evolved, seeing men either wait until the dancing man stops and then begin dancing, or standing up so the dancer gives them his place. In contemporary society women may dance the Zeibekiko. Traditionally, applause was not sought nor commonly given, out of respect. This did not, however, lessen creativity, with dancers performing feats such as standing on a glass of wine or a chair, or picking up a table, adding a sense of braggadocio and humour.

The origins of this dance trace themselves back to the history of when the Greek people were slaves to the Ottoman Empire for 400+ years. There are no organized steps to this dance. As mentioned earlier, it is purely improvised.