DANCING WITH GLASSES
The one tradition that has always stood out, on the music and dance-loving island of Cyprus, is the Cypriot custom of dancing with glasses on the head. Throughout the ages, Cyprus has been characterised by its blending of traditions, and many folkloric practices have evolved from this confluence. A direct result of this is the act of balancing glasses on one’s head while dancing. This form of rhythmic expression is thought to have developed directly from a flamboyance that can only be found in Cyprus and has created a dance that holds significant cultural importance to most Cypriots. The dance in some ways also represents unity, tradition, and the collective spirit of the Cypriot people.Â
A DIRECT METAPHOR
The act of balancing glasses on one’s head often serves as a direct metaphor for maintaining harmony and cohesion in a much-varied modern Cypriot life. The dance also serves as a constant reminder of the importance of tradition, community and shared joy. It is also important to remember that there is more to this custom than just entertainment factors. This extremely difficult dance directly reflects the island’s rich history, cultural significance, and enduring communal and social bonds that have existed on the island for centuries. This captivating custom encapsulates the spirit of Cyprus, where history, community, and celebration converge, allowing both locals and visitors to partake in a unique expression of identity and belonging. Performances of this dance can regularly be found at most major events and it remains a highlight, captivating audiences with its blend of grace and skilful challenge.Â
OFTEN PERFORMED
AT MAJOR LIFE EVENTS
This unique practice has remained central to the expressive Cypriot lifestyle and the dance still embodies the spirit of the Cypriot expression of celebration today. Its origins date back to ancient times when communal celebrations played a pivotal role in the island’s social structure. This dance was often performed at gatherings that celebrated major life events, such as weddings, harvests, and religious occasions. This type of show dancing was often the highlight of the evening and was one of the main forms of celebration, creating a crucial element in bringing communities together.
A BALANCING ACT
The ability to dance with glasses on the head was traditionally passed down through each generation and older members of a community would often take on the role of teachers and guide younger participants in the nuances of balance and body control. This role now belongs to local cultural organisations and dance troupes that have played a vital role in ensuring that this custom remains relevant in today’s society. This dance is mainly a demonstration of individual skill, but the art of dancing with glasses on the head also requires a blend of dexterity, stamina, and balance. The dexterity of the dancer is also challenged and the skill needed to effectively perform this dance is apparent in the intricate movements that are required to maintain balance. This exhibition of physical ability is a blend of all of these attributes that creates a unique artistry and this dance also requires a certain physical prowess that only a few possess.Â
GLASSES FILLED WITH WINE
The dance typically involves a single dancer, adorned in a traditional Cypriot costume that moves rhythmically to the sounds of traditional Cypriot music. The performance begins when a second dancer places a glass, typically filled with wine on the main dancer’s head. The wine symbolises the hallmarks of several Cypriot traditions including abundance and hospitality. The main dancer then engages in a series of movements that involve twists, turns, and an occasional leap without allowing the glasses to fall. The second dancer then periodically places a series of glasses on the head of the main dancer slowly building a tower of glasses.
MORE THAN JUST A MERE FORM OF EXPRESSION
This Cypriot dance represents much more than a mere form of expression and the origins and history of this captivating dance have evolved, enabling it to weave itself into the fabric of several modern Cypriot celebrations. As the dance continues to thrive in modern society, it serves as a testament to the resilience of cultural traditions and the communal joys that have bound Cypriots together through the art of movement, music, and shared experience for centuries. This dance has also become a focal point for those who still regard the spectacle as something quite special. As the glasses balance delicately atop heads, amidst lively music and laughter, the dance often celebrates life moments whilst fostering a deep connection to the vibrant rhythm of the traditional music that still maintains an engaging connection with most Cypriot communities on the island. The popularity of this spectacle has also spread beyond Cyprus and it has attracted great interest from visitors to the island and cultural enthusiasts eager to engage with local Cypriot traditions.
AN ENDURING CUSTOM
In an era where globalisation poses challenges to traditional practices, the persistence of dancing with glasses on the head features the strength of the overall cultural character and modern Cypriot identity. Today, the custom of dancing with glasses on the head continues to thrive amid a broader revival of interest in folk traditions. This custom remains relevant in Cypriot culture and often forms part of larger cultural celebrations, such as major festivals throughout the year all over the island. Dance workshops that include performances are often organised to introduce newcomers to the art form, emphasising the importance of cultural preservation that allows for creativity and personal interpretation of the dance.Â
ANOTHER RECORD FOR CYPRUS!
Cypriot Aristotelis Valaoritis has recently achieved a remarkable feat, earning a spot in the Guinness World Records for the fourth time, Aristotelis set his first record in 1997 with 134 glasses, and then followed this in 1998, extending his record to 169 glasses. His third record came in 2023 when he danced with an astonishing 319 glasses balanced on his head. His fourth Guinness World Record was achieved by dancing with 28 glasses stacked vertically atop one another on his head. No coasters or intermediate supports were allowed between the glasses and the towering structure measured an impressive 245 cm in height and weighed just under 10 kilos.
