The can can is a high-energy dance that originated in the music halls of 19th-century France. Characterized by lifted skirts, rapid leg kicks, and a playful, sometimes provocative energy, it became a symbol of rebellion and spectacle. Often misunderstood as a simple party trick, the dance has a rich cultural history tied to the evolution of performance and social norms.
The Origins of the Dance in French Cabarets
Emerging in the 1830s and 1840s, the dance was born in the gritty entertainment venues of Paris. It was originally called the "candlestick dance" due to the provocative act of women lifting their skirts to reveal the absence of undergarments, a bold statement at the time. This act of defiance against Victorian modesty quickly evolved into a choreographed routine involving kicks and splits, performed to oompah brass music.
Global Fame Through Offenbach's Operetta
The turning point for the dance came in 1855 with Jacques Offenbach's operetta "Orphée aux Enfers" (Orpheus in the Underworld). The famous "Galop Infernal" piece, specifically composed for the dance, catapulted it to international stardom. Audiences across Europe and America flocked to theaters to witness the scandalous spectacle, cementing its place in popular culture as the epitome of risqué entertainment.
The Performance and Physicality
At its core, the dance is a display of athleticism and rhythm. Dancers, often in long gowns, perform rapid ascending and descending scales of kicks while maintaining a straight back. The movement originates from the knees, requiring significant flexibility and control. What appears chaotic is actually a precise sequence designed to maximize visual impact and surprise.
Impact on Music and Visual Culture
Beyond the dance floor, the can can influenced music and visual art. Composers began writing faster, more rhythmic pieces to accompany the frantic pace. Visual artists like Toulouse-Lautrec captured the vibrant energy of performers in Montmartre, turning the dance into an iconic image of the Belle Époque. The imagery of the dancing woman in a white skirt with black garters became instantly recognizable.
Misconceptions and True Artistic Merit
Despite its reputation for being purely comedic or vulgar, the dance requires immense skill. Early performers were often acrobats or trained dancers who used the framework of comedy to showcase their physical prowess. The humor derived from the contrast between the high-energy movement and the demure attire of the performers, challenging audiences' expectations of female decorum.
Legacy in Modern Entertainment
Today, the dance persists as a symbol of theatrical exaggeration. While rarely performed in its original scandalous context, its steps are echoed in musical theater, competitive dance, and even film choreography. Modern interpretations often strip away the historical controversy, focusing instead on the sheer spectacle and coordination involved, proving its enduring appeal as a performance staple.
