The metelytsia is a lively Ukrainian folk round dance whose name comes from the word “metelytsia,” that is, a snowstorm or blizzard. Indeed, the rapid, whirling motion of the dancers, who spin and continuously change places, recalls the swirling of snowflakes in winter weather.
It is primarily a winter, youthful dance of a group character, full of merriment, ardour, and irrepressible energy. It is performed at a fast tempo to a spirited instrumental melody, and often with sung refrains. The metelytsia is built on rapid whirling in couples that repeatedly break apart and form anew. This dance, celebrated in Ukrainian literature too, is a vivid embodiment of the cheerful spirit of folk choreography and an inseparable part of winter amusements and evening gatherings.
