Ethno-choreographic traces from an expedition in Dukagjin of Shkodra

Abstract

The author of this paper is based on the data gathered during a researching expedition on folklore organized by the ex-Institute of Folklore in the area of Dukagjin from October 16th- November 15th, 1972, and in which the author himself has taken part. Initially, the object of this article is the discussions of some distinguished transmitters who tell about the local traditions of Dukagjin, mainly in the wedding ceremony.

A considerable place is occupied by the Traditional Gjama, which makes Dukagjin as one of the principal hearths of its practice. Besides, for it demonstrates some plastic-rhythmical movements with ethno-choreographic content the author defines it as "mortal dance".

In continuation of the paper, it is dealt with three dances: "Men's dance in front of the bride", "Dance of Shali", "The native double dance", where in the first two ones are danced individually, whereas the third one by a man and a woman. They are accompanied by double-stringed lute, and they have been registered during the expedition of 1972. One of the last dances is "Dance of Puppets", a game played on a stage setting with puppets - birds and is accompanied with double-stringed lute.

In the end of the paper, the author confirms the fact that the commentaries on dances have been mostly like ethno- choreographic particles or traces.