celebrating cultures, preserving traditions
Welcome
The Springfield International Folk Dancers (SIFD) is a nonprofit organization that has been an active part of Springfield’s artistic community since the group was founded in 1975. SIFD continues to expand its repertoire, which now includes dances from over 20 countries.
Visitors are always welcome
SIFD has regular rehearsals Monday nights, 7-9 pm, at the Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. 6th Street, Springfield, Illinois. Previous experience is not necessary to join the fun!
For more information, please contact at sifolkdancers@gmail.com.
For our live action, please visit our FaceBook and YouTube Channel.
What is Folk Dance?
Traditional folk dances developed at community gatherings where people celebrated important life events. Everyone would participate and no formal training was needed - people simply learned by doing. Some people still folk dance as part of their local traditions; other people begin folk dancing to preserve traditions and learn about other cultures. Some groups adapt participatory dances for stage presentation, so the dances can be performed for an audience. Today, people folk dance for many reasons: * to develop a greater understanding of the world and its people. * to learn about the history of other cultures. * to socialize and make friends. * because it's good exercise that challenges our minds. The best way to learn about folk dance is to experience it first hand!
Dance Repertoire
SIFD continues to expand its repertoire, which now includes dances from the following regions: Americas: Canada, Mexico, United States (1850s, 1950s) Balkans: Bulgaria, Greece, Macedonia, Romania, Serbia British Isles/Western Europe: Austria, England, Germany (Bavaria, Westphalia), Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Switzerland Eastern Europe: Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia Middle East: Israel Scandinavia / Nordic Countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden SIFD is always willing to consider learning dances from additional cultures if you have a special request.
Gallery
Coming soon.