Veliko Kolo [Serbia] dance history & background

Veliko kolo ('big kolo') was brought to the U.S. at the turn of the century by Serbs from Vojvodina, the Banat district (partly in Serbia and partly in Romania), who settled mostly in and around New York City, Lebanon, Pennsylvania, and Elizabeth, New Jersey; other important banaćani centers were Detroit, Michigan, and several areas in Ohio.

The version that most American folk dancers know comes from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania due mainly to the teaching efforts of Dick Crum and John Filcich. The dance is subtle, full of creative and intricate nuances, and a favorite of advanced folk dancers everywhere.