PASO DOBLE
The paso doble is a dance that is also called the Spanish one -step in 2/4 time; it is danced with a single step to a beat, and with a lot of spontaneity and free movements; the male leads the female moving forward and backward, turning together or singly in a circle using a variety of hand movements and holds. It became a very popular and stylish ballroom dance in the Philippines, and is at present being revived in dancing clubs and social gatherings. The paso doble accompanies the quick entrances and exits of prince and princess in the traditional komedya(comedy), a verse play usually set in European kingdoms; and the hudyo(Jew) in the traditional sinakulo, the verse play on the life and sufferings of Jesus Christ. Usually played by a band or an orchestra, the paso doble may use old or current melodies, such as "Bridge on the River Kwai" and "Roll out the Barrel" .
Originating from Spain, this dance is a regular part of the social dance repertoire in Spanish-speaking countries, and in Europe since 1918. Paso doble simulates the atmosphere of the corrida(bullfighting), with the woman as the cape and the man as the toreador taunting the bull. The body is distinctly upright with a taut haughtiness of bearing; the steps taken are short, and the feet always directly beneath the body.
R. G. Alejandro and N. G. Tiongson
Source: CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art
