Step Into Dabke – Dancing Together on the Plaza

Dabke has been danced for centuries throughout Bilad al-Sham, the historical region of Greater Syria encompassing present-day Palestine, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. It is thought to have originated from the practice of compacting clay on rooftops. People would stamp in rhythm while holding on to one another’s shoulders, providing support whenever the clay gave way beneath them. Today, Dabke encompasses a wide variety of lively steps danced in lines or circles. A lead dancer typically sets the pace and movements – and men and women alike embrace the dance with equal enthusiasm.

Elbphilharmonie PLUS is a programme that opens up different ways of looking at the music performed at the Elbphilharmonie – either to supplement a concert, or as an experience in its own right. Interdisciplinary encounters and exhibitions form part of the Elbphilharmonie PLUS programme, as do concert talks and films shown in museums, libraries, cinemas and community centres.