Greece, 1964

SIRTAKI

Zorba's dance that unites the line

Sirtaki is not an ancient folk dance but a modern creation composed in 1964 by musician Mikis Theodorakis for the film "Zorba the Greek." It synthesizes several popular Greek dances — the slow Hasapiko and the fast Pidichtos — into a collective line choreography, shoulder to shoulder.

Its rhythmic principle is its signature: the tempo gradually accelerates, driving the line toward a frenzied finale. Instantly becoming a symbol of Greece around the world, it is danced today in tavernas, at popular festivities, and at large gatherings as a ritual of collective cohesion.

How it's danced

Technique & figures

Sirtaki is danced in a line or an open circle, dancers holding each other by the shoulders. The music starts slowly then accelerates in stages toward a very fast finale.

Styles and fundamentals

The posture is tall, dancers stay linked at the shoulders, with footwork alternating crossed steps, jumps, and lateral steps. Collective synchronization is essential.

Main figures

01
Crossed step
A foot passing in front of or behind the other in a lateral step, the basic building block.
02
Lateral kick
A kick extended to the side, marked during the accelerations.
03
Squat
A drop into a crouched position, often performed solo in the middle of the line, very visual.

Reading the music

Greek bouzouki, the main theme from "Zorba the Greek" by Mikis Theodorakis.

Did you know?

Anthony Quinn's injury

N° 01

On the set of "Zorba the Greek," Anthony Quinn had injured his foot; the choreography was adapted to avoid jumps, giving rise to the iconic Sirtaki step.

A dance of one day, a symbol of a country

N° 02

Although invented for a film, Sirtaki is now seen around the world as THE traditional Greek dance.

Explore the rhythms

Same family

Folklores Européens

Cross connections

Styles from other families that share a common language with Sirtaki.