Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Dance as Ritual
Dance as Ecstasy
1. Ballroom Dances
These dances started appearing first in Italy, during the early years of Renaissance.
Popularity of this kind of entertainment quickly swept over the Europe, United States and the
World. Although many other simpler and more easily preformed types of dances caused the
ballroom dances to lose some of their influence, modern worldwide dancing audience started
resurrecting these immortal dances in ever increasing pace.
Waltz - This graceful and slow two person dance was first introduced in mid-19th century
and was greatly popularized by the music of the famous composer Johann Strauss. Today
this dance represents gold standard and the most famous dance of the ballrooms around the
world.
Viennese Waltz - Original form of waltz, first performed at the Italian courts is today
remembered as Viennese Waltz. It differs from the much more famous "English Slow
Waltz" by having much faster 180 beats per minute and was the first who introduced
"closed hold" between performers.
Tango - Originally created in the Argentinean region of Rio de la Plata, this dance is today
known by many of its variations (Argentine tango, Uruguayan tango, Finish Tango and
two types of Ballroom tangos - standard and American) and the fascinating sensual and
energetic style.
Rumba - Popularity of this Cuban dance came from its focus on sensual hip movements
of dance partners. Since its creation in 1930s many types of Rumba were created, most
notably Cuban Rumba (with the style of the African slaves which created it), Catalan
Rumba (with Spanish flavor), Flamenco Rumba and African Rumba.
Samba - Samba is a famous dance and musical genre that originated form the coast of
Africa and land of Brazil. Today infectious rhythm of Samba is regarded as the national
dance of Brazil, and its famous Brazilian Carnival gathers millions Samba dance fans every
year.
Mambo - This Cuban dance that accompanies the music of the same name was introduced
in 1930s, and quickly managed to gain popularity with the exploits of famous musicians
and dancers such as Perez Prado, Benny Moré, Tongolele, Adalberto Martínez, Rosa
Carmina and Lilia Prado.
Quickstep - Light-hearted and fast movement, powerful forms and syncopations, represent
the core style characteristics of the Quickstep, one of the most popular ballroom dances
today in the world. Originally developed in the 1920s dance scene of New York and the
Caribbean, as the combination of the dances such as Charleston, a slow variation of Foxtrot,
Peabody, shag, and one-step. The smooth and glamorous version of quickstep that is
danced today across the world to 4/4 music beat of 48-52 measures per minute was
standardized in 1927.
Jive - Jive is one of the five most popular Latin dances and is also known under the names
of swing, boogie or boogie-woogie. It is considered to be one of the liveliest of all Latin
dances, promoting the happy and bloopy type of performances, with lots of knee movement
and hip rocking. Its official ballroom jive variation that is commonly danced at a speed of
176 beats per minute was formalized in the 1990s.
Bolero - Bolero is an Argentine dance, but it also has different international variations of
the same name coming from Cuba and Spain. Today’s popular ballroom version of this
dance is based on the Cuban bolero, and it is also known under the name “rumba”. This
2/4 or 4/4 music with a tempo of around 120 beats per minute that is well known all around
the world.
Charleston - This extremely popular dance type was popularized by famous tune called
"The Charleston" by composer and pianist James P. Johnson. Charleston craze soon took
over the enthusiastic dancers of Prohibition era of United States.
Swing - This dance is today synonym for the jazz and swing music of the 1920s-
1930s.Because of the many styles of Jazz music, Swing also comes in many flavors - Lindy
Hop, Jitterbug, Boogie Woogie, West Coast Swing and Rock and Roll.
Tap Dance - This extremely popular form of dance was first introduced during 1920s
Prohibition era in United States. Originally created by the African slaves, tap dancing came
into the mainstream with the performances of Nicholas brothers. Few short years later, tap
dancing conquered Hollywood and then entire world.
Moonwalk - This extremely famous dance move that emuates the illusion of walking
backwards was first performed by pop icon Michael Jackson in March of 1983, and ever
since then it gained planetary fame. No single dance move ever created managed to receive
this amount of popularity and recognition.
Boogie-woogie - This quick and energetic style of dance became widely popular during
1930s and 1940s.
Salsa - This Latin dance is today one of the most popular dances in Latin America, North
America, Europe and Australia. It's very sensual form, energetic movement and innovative
choreography that was influenced by Mambo, Changuyi and Rumba made it very popular
all around the world.
Flamenco - This famous Spanish dance originated from the region of Andalusia, and it
gained its name only in 18th century. Its magical, passionate and energetic fusion of singing
(cante), guitar playing (toque), dance and handclaps (palmas) made it famous in entire
world and became one of the accepted heritages of entire humanity.
Argentine tango - Among many types of tango dance, Argentinian dance strives to
preserve original form of tango that was first created in the region of Rio de la Plata.
Lambada - This famous dance that originated from Para, Brayil became internationally
popular during 1980s. It managed to successfully fuse aspects of Forro, salsa, merengue,
maxixe and the carimbó into unforgettable dance style.
Polka - Appearance of polka in mid-19th century created one of the largest "dance crazes"
that our world ever seen. It managed to influence countless other dances, became national
dance of many European countries and is extremely popular in entire Western hemisphere.
Ballet - Ballet is without any doubt one of the most highly technical and famous of all
performance dances. It was originally created in 15th century Renaissance Italy, but it
received popularization in countries such as France and Russia. It’s incredible popularity
and influence has had a profound impact on techniques found in many other dances, and
has even morphed the cultural histories of many countries around the world.
Contemporary dance - Contemporary dance is a highly complicated type of modern
performance dance that originated in the mid-20th century as an alternative to classical
dance styles (such as ballet), modern styles (free dance) and Jazz dance. Its focus on free
leg movement, strong stress on the torso, disordered choreography, unpredictability,
multiple and simultaneous actions, improvisation, and non-standardized costumes, sets,
and lighting has pushed this dance into the forefront of modern art dance scene.
Concert Dance - Concert dance (also known as stage dance) is any choreographed dance
that is performed for an audience, usually at the theatre or an organized gathering setting
with the presence of set music. It is a polar opposite of social or participation dances, where
participants can freely dance how and when they wish. Most popular concert dances are
Ballet, Acrobatic dance, tap dance, modern dance, classical Indian or Persian dances and
others.
Tap Dance - Among many types of popular dances around the world, tap dance may be
one of the most unusual dances. Instead of focusing on body movements and dancing with
a partner, tap dance is characterized by the creation of percussion-like musically-focused
rhythm performance using tap shoes striking on the floor in accordance with the dancing
music.
5. Hip-hop and Funk Dance
Dancing style of Hip-Hop evolved from the music style that was first introduced during
1970s. Powered by the great popularity, exposure in media, movies and television programs, hip-
hop dances found a great foothold in United States, France, United Kingdom and South Korea. A
very similar style called Funk was also created during 1970s, and is today regarded as one of the
most influential pieces of Hip-hop dance styles.
Breakdance (Breaking) - One of the most athletic dances in the world, Breakdance, have
originally found its popularity in the 1970s as the street dance in the New York’s Bronx.
Since then it has spread all around the world where it was viewed as one of the most unique
dance styles ever made. Usually danced solo, this dance requires talented dancers to
perform the series of either choreographed or freeform dance and athletic movements
alongside usually breakbeat, hip-hop or funk music.
Bounce - Born in the 1980s as a mix of New Orleans hip-hop music and the traditions of
the Mardi Gras Indian chants, Bounce dance can today be danced both in its common and
hypersexual form. Since it is so closely connected with the traditions of the Mardi Gras
culture, many forms of Bounce today remain to be highly regional and can rarely be seen
dancing outside of the music scenes of New Orleans, Miami, Baltimore, and other music
hubs.
Electric boogaloo - Funk style of hip-hop was popularized not only by its music but also
by the worldwide acceptance of the famous dance style called Electric Boogaloo, which
was originally promoted in the 1970s by the dance group of the same name. Danced both
by individuals and groups in both free form and choreographed manner, Electric Boogaloo
is filled with the wide variety of moves that focused on the movement of legs, hips, knees
and frequent use of exaggerated robotic-like moves.
Street Jazz - Created with the influences of African American slaves, Jazz dance gained
popularity in the early 20th century as any form of dance that was performed alongside
then new Jazz music. Highly improvisational and freeform, Jazz dance quickly morphed
into a performance dance that emulated elements of ballet. Today, Jazz dance is enjoyed
in many forms which are collectively called “modern jazz dance”.
Jookin' - Jookin’ or so-called “gangsta waling” style of dance is a street dance that
originated quite recently in the 1990s on the streets of Memphis, Tennessee. The dance is
characterized by the movement set that tries to emulate the “bounce” in the core beat of the
crunk music that often accompanies this dance style. Even though this dance has found
some popularity worldwide, it is still a regional dance that can rarely be seen outside of the
city of Memphis.
Locking - Funk dance is incredibly diverse, and one of its famous variations is “locking”.
The core gimmick of this style of hip-hop dance is to suddenly stop and hold the position
(or get locked) in the middle of dance routines for a short while, and then suddenly resume
the dance. It requires full body motion, but most of the dance is focused on top half of the
body. Many Locking dancers prefer to use various acrobatic and physically demanding
moves to augment their dance routines.
Popping - Very close in style with popular Electric Boogaloo, Popping is another variation
of the funk-themed street dance from the 1960s and 1970s that found popularity all around
the world. The technique that dancers need to master to properly dance Popping is
controlled and quick contrasting and relaxing of muscles that will create the feeling of a
jerk throughout the body. This jerk is referred as “pop” or “hit” and can be used to augment
dance routines, movements and possess.
SOCIAL AND COMPETITVE BALLROOM.
Attitude – Attitude is a pose on one leg with the other lifted and bent at approximately a
120-degree angle. Attitude may be executed to the front or to the back.
Arabesque – Arabesque is the position of the body when supported on one leg with the
opposite leg extended behind the body. The arms may be held in various positions, one
being to create the longest possible line along the body.
Developpe – The developpe is a movement in which the working leg is drawn up to the
knee of the supporting leg and from there smoothly out to a position in the air, usually at
90 degrees (i.e., parallel to the floor).
Lunge – A lunge is a transfer of weight to a bent leg while keeping the other leg extended.
Passe – In going to passé position, the working leg is drawn up the standing leg to this
position.
Adagio – Adage or in Italian “adagio” means slow, and in dance terminology, adagio
means a slow movement. Thus adagio is not a pose or a figure but a reference to any slowly
developing movement. Adagio movements may include poses and figures such as
developpes, arabesques, and attitudes.
Allegro – Allegro is the opposite of adagio. Allegro means fast and in dance terminology,
allegro means a fast movement such as a flick or a kick.
Rond de Jambe – the literal translation is round of the leg. In this movement, a straight
leg is swept in an arc.
Spotting – When spotting during turning movements, the dancer attempts to focus and re-
focus upon the same stationary spot. In other words, spotting is focusing on a fixed point
through a turn. Some folks say that spotting helps prevent dizziness. In any event, it is
usually judged as aesthetically pleasing since it makes movements appear crisp and
controlled.
Prep – A prep or preparation lead is a pre-lead that starts or signals the beginning of a
new step or turn.
Lift - A lift is a theatrical, exhibition type of dance movement in which one partner lifts
the other from the floor.
Drop – A drop is a theatrical type of dance movement in which the follower's head and
torso are lowered below the knee level of the leader while at least one part of the follower's
body remains in contact with the floor.
Drag - A drag is a theatrical type of dance movement in which the follower is scooted
along the floor surface by the leader. The leader may effect the drag either through leverage
or through compression.
Lean – A lean is a stationary figure where the weight of one partner is partially supported
or counterbalanced by the other partner.
Slash or Slide – A slide is a movement where one partner transports the other, though the
transported partner maintains contact with the floor.
Jete – a jete is a movement where the dancer jumps from one foot to the other. In the
dramatic grande jete, the dancer performs a split while at the center of the leap.
Tour Jete – The tour jete is a jump from one foot to the other while performing a haf turn.
Plie – A plie is a lowering movement to a position approximating a sitting position. Notice
that a ballet plie differs from a ballroom plie.
Attitude Turn – An attitude turn is a turn executed while in the attitude position.
Ride – A ride, sometimes referred to as a horse and cart movement occurs when one partner
supports and rotates the riding partner on an axis.
Sitting Hen – Here we see a theatrical type of dance movement sometimes referred to as
a sitting hen.
Pot Stirrer – Here we see a theatrical type of dance movement sometimes referred to as a
pot stirrer.
Hop - Here we see a hopping movement, sometimes used in dance choreography to
correspond with rat-a-tat-tat beat sequences.
Leverage Move – This is a generic term that refers to movements and figures requiring
significant counterbalancing actions.
Split – A split refers to a figure where the legs are split apart (separated apart) usually to
an angle of 180 degrees.
Triple step - Triple steps are popular in swing dancing. The Triple Step is a three step sequence
taken on two beats of music. If the first step of the triple step is taken on count 1, the second step
is taken on the half beat between counts 1&2, and the third step is taken on count 2. The step
timing is often called out as 1&2. Usually the triple step is two quick steps and one slow, called
out as "quick-quick-slow", or, using numbers, as "one-and-two.”
Rock Step - Here we see a sequence of two steps called a rock step. The step timing is usually
slow-slow.
Basic of East Coast Swing - The combination of two triple steps and a rock step form the basic
step of triple timing swing or the East Coast Swing. The step timing is usually called out as 1&2,
3&4, 5,6.
Ball-Change - Here we see a sequence of two steps called a ball-change. Weight on the ball of
the foot is changed to the other foot.
Kick Ball Change - A popular swing dance step is the kick-ball-change step, which can be used
to replace the rock step. The timing is usually 1&2.
The Basic Step of the Carolina Shag - The combination of two triple steps and a kick ball
change can be used in triple timing swing dances such as the Carolina shag.
Coaster Step - The coaster step is usually a back-together-forward triple step danced to the
timing of 1&2 or quick, quick, slow.
Sailor Step - The sailor step has a side to side look. It is also a triple step danced to the timing of
1&2. The step is accomplished by leaning in the opposite direction of the crossing foot.
Anchor Step - The anchor step is a stationary triple step danced in third foot position to the
timing of 1&2. It is popular in the west coast swing.
Grapevine - The grapevine is a continuous traveling step pattern to the side usually with
alternating crosses behind and in front of the supporting foot.
Lock Step – The lock step is usually danced to triple step timing. During the step, the lower part
of the legs cross such that the back leg becomes locked behind the leading leg until the leading
leg moves forward. The lock step is often used in the triple step of the cha cha cha.
The man is typically the leader in a ballroom dance and takes the woman through the
various movements in a routine. The woman doesn’t know what is coming next and simply follows
her partner’s lead. When leading, the man needs to always start off with the ‘left foot.' He steps
directly either forward, backward or sideways, never in-between. It is vital to maintain a strong
frame when leading. A good frame means a good connection with your partner. This allows her to
sense your movement easily and quickly. Here are some checkpoints that will help you maintain
a good frame.
• The partner’s shoulder blade needs to be cupped with the right hand
• Keep your right elbow lifted
• Keep your shoulders relaxed
• Keep your core engaged (or tuck in your belly)
A big misconception associated with leading is this; you lead with your hands and arms.
This is false. All movements need to be initiated from the torso or core. The arms only work as
extensions of your torso and help you connect with your partner.
The follower’s role in ballroom dancing is anything but passive. As a follower, you need
to receive signals for the next move from your partner. A follower will usually not move till a
signal is received from the partner for the next move. Move naturally when stepping forward
without breaking your movement at the hips. You need to keep your timings extremely sharp when
following. For this, you need to focus on using the left hand’s palm (placed on the leader’s
shoulder). This contact will act as your guide, and you will be able to move quickly and easily
whichever direction he leads you.
4. Etiquettes in Social Ballroom Dancing
1) Dance in the line of dance. Ballroom dancers move around the floor in a counter-clockwise
direction. You should be moving in this direction most of the time. This is ballroom dance
etiquette 101.
2) When things go wrong, apologize. If you bump into someone, or step on someone’s foot, tell
them you’re sorry. Don’t just ignore them.
3) Slow dancers should move to the center of the room. So if you are a beginner to ballroom
dance, just learning new moves, don’t clog up the main lines of dance. Stay towards the center.
4) Conversation should be off the dance floor. If you’d like to talk, do it off the dance floor.
5) Cross the dance floor around the perimeter. Don’t cut through. I’ve seen people walk across
the middle of the ballroom dance floor holding drinks. Not good.
6) Clean up your mess. So, if you are carrying some drinks and you do spill something, clean it
up before some dancer slips and gets hurt.
7) Personal hygiene. Make sure you don’t have bad body odor or bad breath. Very important
ballroom dance etiquette.
8) Dance at your partner’s ability. If you are an experienced ballroom dance leader dancing with
a beginner follower, don’t expect her to do advanced moves. Build the dance. Start with easy
stuff. Once you see that she’s with the timing and following easy patters, try advancing to more
difficult ones. If she has difficulty doing one turn, don’t lead her in to a double turn.
9) Sneezing and coughing while dancing. This does happen. Always sneeze or cough into the
underside of your elbow. Do not sneeze into your hand and then ask her to take that hand for
dancing.
10) Don’t chew gum while dancing. This is annoying to your partner. He or she doesn’t want to
dance with a cow chewing grass, which is what it feels like. It also doesn’t look elegant.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
instruction/definitions-dance-terms.htm
Camarillo Academy of Performing Arts. (n.d.). Why Dance is Important. Retrieved from
http://www.camarilloacademy.com/2011/09/why-dance/
dance/socialdance.htm
instruction/basic-steps-ballroom-dancing.htm
Nerdahl, S. (2017, January 31). The General Rules of Leading and Following in Ballroom
general-rules-of-leading-and-following-in-ballroom-dancing
types/types-of-dances/