Plaza dance in Sentmenat

The Plaza Dance in Sentmenat is a dance with more than one hundred years of history.

The origin of the Gypsy Dance is not precisely documented, but all indications are that it was already being danced in the 19th century. The first official reference that has been preserved is a photograph from 1916. Since then, the tradition has experienced periods of interruption and recovery, often affected by wars or a lack of teachers.

In Sentmenat, the Gypsy Dance is called the Plaza Dance and is organized by the Societat Coral Obrera La Glòria Sentmenatenca (SCOLGS), popularly known as "the Choir." Each year, the groups disband after the performances and reform the following season. Similarly, the choreography is renewed year after year, keeping the tradition alive and vibrant.

Currently, five or six groups participate, with dancers ranging in age from 3 years old to veteran groups. In total, this represents between 70 and 80 dancers, accompanied by five or six teachers, as well as various collaborators.

The repertoire includes pieces such as the Pas Festa, the Catxutxes (known locally as "tía Coixa"), the Contradances (called "pares de tres"), the Xotis, the Masurca, and the Jota. Smaller groups, however, do not perform all the dances.

The Plaza Dance group regularly participates in the town's traditional dance around Sant Jordi's Day, as well as the Montserrat Dance. They also occasionally participate in other activities and events organized in the municipality.