The Tanko Bushi is a traditional Japanese folk dance.

It is known in Japanese culture as a Bon Odori dance, which is performed during the time of the Obon festivals. The Obon festivals celebrate the reunion of family and old friends and promote a sense of community.

Tanko Bushi means "Coal Miners' Song". The actions in the Tanko Bushi dance are inspired by the way coal miners move. Movements include digging, throwing the bag of coal over your shoulder, wiping sweat from the brow, and pushing the cart. The dance is done travelling in a circle.

In honor of Japanese Day, together as a community, the students of Holy Spirit will be learning the

Tanko Bushi.

1. WATCH-Watch the tutorial without joining in.

2. JOIN IN- Restart the tutorial and join in by copying the instructor.

3. REHEARSE- Dance the Tanko Bushi 2 more times and try to perform it all by yourself. Can you remember some of the steps in order?

We will be practising the Tanko Bushi together in class, so don't worry if you need a little bit more help to learn it, just try your best!