Diu Xie

 

Origin:

China (Tibet)

Pronunciation:

Due Shey

Background:

The costume for this dance has very, very long sleeves, much longer than the arms.  We simulate the sleeves by using a scarf or handkerchief in each hand.

Rhythm:

4/4

Formation:

Solo in circle facing CW, handkerchief in each hand, arms hanging loosely at sides.

 

Measure

Count

Pattern

 

 

 

9 meas

 

Introduction – no action.  Both your R and L arms should be hanging (as best is possible) to your R side.

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 1

1

1

Step forward in LOD on R.  At the same time, begin to move your arms from your R side to your L side, by bringing them up over your head.

 

2

Step forward in LOD on L.  At the same time, continue to move your arms from your R side to your L side, by moving them over your head.

 

3

Stamp R foot in place without taking weight.  Complete the movement of your arms to the L, by bringing them down to your L side.

 

4

Pause

2-5

1-4

Repeat Figure 1, Meas 1, four more times. 
On Meas 2, arms move from L to R over your head. 
On Meas 3, arms move R to L over your head. 
On Meas 4, arms move L to R over your head. 
On Meas 5, arms move R to L over your head.

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 2

1

1-4

Walk forward in LOD, R,L,R,L.  At the same time, your body slightly bent over, and knees bent as you walk, wave arms in front of knees.  Cross arms in front of knees, R arm in front, as you step with R; open arms as you step with L.

2

1-2

Touch right heel forward.  At the same time, R arm goes up above head, L arm goes down and slightly back.

 

3-4

Touch R toe back.  At the same time, L arm goes up above head, R arm goes down and slightly back.

3

1-4

Repeat Figure 2, Meas 1

4

1-4

Repeat Figure 2, Meas 2

 

Instructions by Leslie Hyll, as learned from Sandy Starkman, in Dayton, Ohio, 1996