'The Sardana' by Pedro Braga Sampaio with Nyaueth Riam for Numéro NL September 2024

‘The Sardana’ is an exclusive fashion editorial for the September 2024 issue of Numéro Netherlands [IG] inspired by Catalan folklore.

Photographer and creative director Pedro Braga Sampaio [IG] organized the shoot in Monells, a village in the Baix Empordà region of Catalonia. Leonardo Portes and David Alesina work on film.

Cover girl model Nyaueth Riam is joined by Rebeca Solana and members of the Monells community. Alexandre Dornellas provides creative direction and styling.

Introduction To The Sardana: A Cultural Symbol Of Catalonia

The Sardana is much more than a traditional dance; it is an emblem of Catalan identity and heritage. Originating from the northeastern region of Catalonia, this communal dance encapsulates the spirit of unity and resilience that has characterized Catalan culture for centuries. With its roots tracing back to ancient Greek and Roman traditions, the Sardana evolved over time, gaining prominence in the 19th century as a symbol of Catalan nationalism at a time when regional identities were being oppressed.

The dance is performed by a circle of dancers, holding hands and following a series of meticulously choreographed steps. The intricate movements demand both precision and harmony, reflecting the community's collective will and solidarity. The accompanying music, usually played by a cobla, a wind instrument ensemble, enriches the experience, adding emotional depth and historical resonance.

Tapping into Communality

Participating in or witnessing the Sardana provides a window into the communal life of Catalonia. It is a poignant reminder of the importance of tradition in preserving cultural identity. The dance often takes center stage during festivals and public gatherings, symbolizing freedom, unity, and cultural pride. In this way, the Sardana is not merely a form of entertainment but a living tradition that continues to foster a sense of belonging and continuity among Catalans.

The modern sardana owes much of its structure and popularity to the composer Pep Ventura, who is credited with transforming it from a simple folk dance into a more formalized and widespread cultural symbol. Ventura introduced more complex musical arrangements and expanded the traditional accompaniment of flabiol (a small flute) and tambori (a small drum) to include instruments from the cobla, a traditional Catalan orchestra.

The sardana also evolved to carry significant cultural and political symbolism. During the Franco regime in the mid-20th century, when Catalan culture and language were repressed, the sardana became a form of peaceful resistance and a means of preserving Catalan identity.

Modern Adaptations and Musical Fusion

In recent years, modern adaptations have also played a critical role in the sardana’s preservation. Choreographers and musicians experiment with contemporary elements while retaining the dance's traditional core.

Fusion with other musical genres, innovative formations, and the incorporation of multimedia have broadened the sardana's appeal, attracting younger audiences and diverse participants. Additionally, leveraging digital platforms and social media has enhanced accessibility, allowing people worldwide to learn about and participate in the dance.

Today, the dance continues to be a potent symbol of Catalan unity, performed at festivals and gatherings, ensuring that both the traditional aspects and historical significance of the sardana remain alive and vibrant in contemporary Catalonia.