Aljeah Rose F.

Sorillo
VIII-St. Augustine

Cariosa
A. Historical Background
The Cariosa is a popular folk dance that was introduced to the
country by the Spaniards when they arrived in the 16th century. It
belongs to the Maria Clara suite of Philippine folk dances. These
are so named in honor of Maria Clara, who was the main
character in Jose Rizal's novel Noli Me Tangere, , about the
colonization of the Philippines by the Spanish. In it, Maria Clara is
portrayed as a noble and loyal woman, who after the publication
of the novel in the 19th century became the female symbol of
virtue for Filipina women.

B. Costume
Originally, the Cariosa was danced with Maria Clara dress and
Barong Tagalog for it is a Maria Clara Spanish Dance when it was
introduced. In addition, Filipino wore the patadyong kimona and
camisa de chino to reveal nationalism. (a native dress of the

Tagalog regions), camisa (a white sleeve) or patadyong kimona (a

dress of the Visayan of people) and for boys, a barong Tagalog
and colored pants. Because it is the national dance, the dancers
may wear any Filipino costumes.
C. Basic Steps
In Cariosa, dancers use fans and handkerchiefs and play hide
and seek.
The Basic Steps used in Cariosa
Waltz Step- step,close,step (counts 1,2,3)
Three Steps and Point
Touch Step