Beriozka: Dance and Tradition

A few days ago, I had the privilege of participating—alongside fellow students from the Faculty of Foreign Languages—in a cultural event held at La Quinta de los Molinos, a heritage site that frequently hosts activities related to art and identity. On this occasion, we performed the traditional Russian dance Beriozka, an experience that allowed us to connect with a deeply symbolic artistic expression.

Beriozka (Берёзка), named after the birch tree—an emblematic symbol of femininity and nature in Russian culture—is known for the visual illusion it creates: dancers appear to glide effortlessly across the stage, their feet hidden beneath long flowing dresses. This technique, developed by choreographer Nadezhda Nadezhdina in 1948, demands precision, harmony, and a refined sensitivity to convey serenity and grace.

Although we are not professional dancers, we approached the process with respect and enthusiasm. Each rehearsal was an opportunity to learn, to share, and to discover the richness of a tradition that, even from afar, speaks to the universal language of art.

To represent a part of Russian culture in this context was, without a doubt, a meaningful moment—not only for what we learned, but for what we felt while dancing together in a space that invited us to celebrate diversity and connection.

I’m especially grateful to #roswelborges, who encouraged me to share this video. I hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed living the experience.