Emotions and flamenco dance: introducing the duende in dance movement therapy

Abstract

ABSTRACT Flamenco dance constitutes a vehicle of singular socio-cultural manifestation loaded with emotional elements, which invite its analysis as a potential therapeutic tool. The present research, using a mixed methodology, collected data in three different population groups (volunteer participants, flamenco dancers and dance movement therapists), where the movements of flamenco dance were analysed in relation to the expression of emotions, using the movement qualities of Laban. The feelings and motivation that drove the dancers to use this dance style were also analysed. The results provide information about the relationship between basic flamenco movements and some emotions especially represented by certain movement patterns. The results obtained suggest that flamenco dance could represent a useful instrument for the expression and channelling of emotions in the context of dance movement therapy.