Zorba the Greek, The Story Behind Zorba’s Dance

Discover the origins, music, and global impact of the iconic Sirtaki dance from the film Zorba the Greek.

Highlights of Zorba’s Legacy

• The Music: Composed by Mikis Theodorakis for the 1964 film Zorba the Greek, “Zorba’s Dance” is an instrumental piece inspired by traditional Cretan folk songs, particularly those by Giorgis Koutsourelis.
• The Dance (Sirtaki): Though widely associated with Greece, the Sirtaki dance was choreographed specifically for the film, blending slow (Hasapiko) and fast (Hasaposerviko) steps. It’s not an ancient folk dance.
• Cultural Phenomenon: The film’s success propelled both the music and the Sirtaki dance to international fame, making them powerful symbols of Greek culture, joy, and resilience worldwide.

The Sound of Zorba the Greek: Crafting an Iconic Melody

Mikis Theodorakis and the Musical Roots

The instantly recognizable theme song from the 1964 film Zorba the Greek, often called “Zorba’s Dance,” is an instrumental piece that perfectly captures the movie’s spirit. Composed by the renowned Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis, this music has become synonymous with Greece itself. Theodorakis, a significant figure in Greek music and politics, drew inspiration from the vibrant sounds of Greek folk traditions, particularly the urban style known as rebetiko.

While Theodorakis is the composer credited for the film’s score, he skillfully incorporated elements from existing traditional Cretan music. Specifically, he based “Zorba’s Dance” on two older tunes: “Armenohorianos Syrtos” and “Kritiko Syrtaki,” originally composed by Giorgis Koutsourelis. Theodorakis reimagined these folk melodies, infusing them with a unique energy and structure that resonated with the film’s narrative and its charismatic central character, Alexis Zorba.

The Role of the Bouzouki

Central to the sound of “Zorba’s Dance” is the bouzouki, the traditional Greek string instrument with a pear-shaped body. Its bright, metallic timbre provides the driving melody and distinctive character of the piece. The music typically starts slowly and gradually accelerates, building intensity and reflecting the passionate, free-spirited nature of Zorba himself.

The Sirtaki: A Dance Born from Film

Choreography for the Silver Screen

One of the most common misconceptions is that the Sirtaki, the dance performed to “Zorba’s Dance,” is an ancient Greek folk dance. In reality, it was choreographed specifically for the 1964 film Zorba the Greek. Giorgos Provias is credited with creating the dance steps for the movie’s star, Anthony Quinn. The name “Sirtaki” itself is derived from the Greek word “syrtos,” which refers to a style of traditional Greek dances characterized by dragging steps. However, the Sirtaki cleverly combines both slow, dragging movements (syrtos elements, reminiscent of the Hasapiko dance) and faster, leaping steps (pidikhtos elements, similar to the Hasaposerviko).

Structure and Style

The Sirtaki typically begins at a slow, measured pace, reflecting the Hasapiko style – a dance historically associated with the butchers’ guild in Constantinople. As the music tempo increases, the dance transitions into the faster, more energetic Hasaposerviko style. Dancers usually stand in a line or circle, holding each other’s shoulders. This formation, combined with the accelerating rhythm, creates a powerful feeling of camaraderie and shared celebration.

Comparing Sirtaki to its Influences

Understanding the Sirtaki involves recognizing its roots in older Greek dance forms. The following table highlights the key characteristics of the Sirtaki compared to the Hasapiko and Hasaposerviko dances that influenced its choreography:

From Novel to Screen: The Film Zorba the Greek

Adapting Kazantzakis’s Vision

The film Zorba the Greek [link], directed by Michael Cacoyannis, is based on the 1946 novel “The Life and Times of Alexis Zorbas” by Nikos Kazantzakis. It tells the story of Basil, a reserved English-Greek writer (played by Alan Bates), who travels to Crete to reopen a lignite mine he inherited. He meets the exuberant and life-affirming Alexis Zorba (Anthony Quinn), who becomes his guide and friend, teaching him to embrace life fully, with all its joys and sorrows.

The movie was filmed on location in Crete, Greece. The iconic beach dance scene, where Zorba teaches Basil the Sirtaki amidst personal tragedy and the failure of their mining venture, was shot on the beach of Stavros in the Akrotiri peninsula. This scene, set to Theodorakis’s powerful music, became one of cinema’s most memorable moments.

Critical Acclaim and Impact

The film was a critical and commercial success, earning seven Academy Award nominations and winning three: Best Supporting Actress (Lila Kedrova), Best Art Direction (Black-and-White), and Best Cinematography (Black-and-White). Its international acclaim played a massive role in popularizing Greek culture, particularly the music and the newly created Sirtaki dance, across the globe.

The Unforgettable Final Dance Scene

The final scene of the movie is particularly significant. After facing numerous setbacks, including the collapse of their mining operation, Zorba teaches the initially reserved writer how to dance on the beach. This act symbolizes finding joy and resilience even in the face of failure and loss. The Sirtaki becomes an expression of life affirmation. The video below captures this powerful moment.

Global Resonance: Zorba’s Cultural Footprint

A Symbol of Greece

Following the film’s release, “Zorba’s Dance” and the Sirtaki quickly transcended their cinematic origins. The music became an unofficial anthem for Greece, played widely at celebrations, cultural events, and tourist venues. Its energetic rhythm and passionate melody evoke a strong sense of Greek identity and hospitality.

The Sirtaki dance, despite being relatively new, was embraced as a “Greek” dance worldwide. Its simple starting steps and group participation make it accessible and enjoyable for many. It’s frequently performed at Greek weddings, festivals, and tavernas, both in Greece and within the Greek diaspora, fostering a sense of community and shared heritage.

Beyond Greek Culture

The appeal of “Zorba’s Dance” extends far beyond Greek communities. The song has been recorded and performed by numerous artists globally in various styles. Its infectious energy has even found its way into sporting events; for instance, the New York Yankees baseball team has used it to energize crowds. This demonstrates the universal quality of the music and its ability to convey excitement and unity across cultural boundaries.

Mikis Theodorakis’s composition, rooted in folk traditions yet created for a modern audience, continues to be celebrated for its vitality and emotional depth, representing a spirit of resilience and the joy of living.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who composed the music known as “Zorba’s Dance”?

The music was composed by the famous Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis specifically for the 1964 film Zorba the Greek. He based it on traditional Cretan folk tunes by Giorgis Koutsourelis.

Is the Sirtaki a traditional Greek folk dance?

No, the Sirtaki is not a traditional folk dance. It was choreographed by Giorgos Provias in 1964 specifically for the movie Zorba the Greek. It blends elements of older traditional dances like the Hasapiko and Hasaposerviko.

What does the name “Sirtaki” mean?

The name “Sirtaki” comes from the Greek word “syrtos,” which refers to a group of traditional Greek dances characterized by shuffling or dragging steps across the floor.

What instruments are typically used in “Zorba’s Dance”?

The most prominent instrument is the bouzouki, a traditional Greek string instrument that gives the music its characteristic sound. Other folk instruments may also be used in various arrangements.

Where was the famous dance scene in the movie filmed?

The iconic final dance scene featuring Anthony Quinn was filmed on the beach of Stavros, located on the Akrotiri peninsula in Crete, Greece.

What is the story of the film Zorba the Greek about?

The film follows a reserved British-Greek writer who travels to Crete and meets the free-spirited Alexis Zorba. Through their attempts to run a mine and navigate life’s challenges, Zorba teaches the writer to embrace life more passionately.

Did the film Zorba the Greek win any awards?

Yes, the film won three Academy Awards in 1964: Best Supporting Actress for Lila Kedrova, Best Art Direction (Black-and-White), and Best Cinematography (Black-and-White).

How is the Sirtaki dance typically performed?

It’s usually danced in a line or circle formation, with dancers placing their hands on the shoulders of the people next to them. The dance starts slowly and gradually gets faster.

What is rebetiko music, which influenced “Zorba’s Dance”?

Rebetiko is a style of urban Greek folk music that emerged in the early 20th century, often associated with the struggles and experiences of the urban working class. It often features instruments like the bouzouki.

Are there more movies that feature Greek music?

Yes, there are many more movies that feature Greek music. From traditional folk songs to modern compositions, Greek music in movies adds a unique emotional and cultural layer. Films like Never on Sunday, Rembetiko, Z (with music by Mikis Theodorakis), and My Big Fat Greek Wedding include memorable moments where Greek music plays a central role in storytelling or atmosphere. Whether it’s the haunting bouzouki or a joyful syrtaki, Greek music in movies continues to leave a lasting impression.