 Folk dance HISTORY

The tradition of Welsh folk dancing was almost disappeared a hundred years ago because of
some years of disapproval by the Nonconformist faith. In the origins, folk dancing was very
common throughout Wales and all the social classes practiced it but in different ways. The lower
classes gathered for open-air events and festivals, while the upper classes danced at balls and
parties.

According to this timeline, during the 18th century, the huge influence of the Nonconformists
caused attitudes towards traditional folk customs and dance. Gradually, they persuaded its
followers to lead a more religious way of life and activities such as dancing, particularly mixed
dancing involving close contact, were considered frivolous and corrupt. As a result of almost
200 years of constant Nonconformist disapproval, by the 20th century folk dancing had almost
vanished in Wales.

One of the other reasons that caused the decline of Welsh folk dancing was the decrease of
rural life during the Industrial Revolution.

Realizing that folk dances were about to disappear without trace, some people decided to start
a movement in order to recover the tradition. Soon, a new enthusiasm reinforced by the
introduction of folk dance onto the National Eisteddfod stage, secured a firm foundation for the
future of Welsh folk dancing. From now on, since 1949 the Welsh Folk Dancing Society was
established and it becomes a popular cultural aspect of Wales.

 CLOTHING

The Welsh National Costume is based on the costumes worn by the rural working population of
the late 18th century. The most important part of the dress of Welsh women was the gown and
petticoat (it’s what they wore under the skirt). It is made of wool in one color or in vertical
stripes in two contrasting colors (black and red). The neckline of the gown was cut low to show
the edge of the white chemise and she also wear a white scarf on the neck or a small square
neckerchief.
The hat developed to be the most characteristic feature of the Welsh lady’s costume when the
height of the crown was extended upwards. Inside the hat, everyone wore a white frilled cap. A
cloak of red, blue, green or grey cloth with a deep gathered hood was worn in cold weather or
also a piece of woolen cloth over the shoulders (shawl).  Finally, she wore an apron in white or
other color.

For men, it is consisted of a waistcoat, a jacket of blue or grey wool, a neckerchief, a pair of
breeches, woolen stockings and a hat.

What is more, the welsh costume is also used to celebrate some festivities, such as
Saint David’s Day in which children wear the traditional welsh costume in schools and,
in general, many people go out in the street with this dress