Ballroom Dance

Ballroom dance – refers to a set of  partner dances, which are enjoyed both  socially  and  competitively  around the world. Because of its  performance  and entertainment aspects, ballroom dance is also widely enjoyed on stage, film, and television. – may refer, at its widest, to almost any type of social dancing as recreation. However, with the emergence of  dance sport  in modern times, the term has become narrower in scope. It usually refers to the International Standard and International Latin style dances. These styles were developed in England,  and are now regulated by the  World Dance Council  (WDC). In the United States, two additional variations are popular: American Smooth  and  American Rhythm. – The term ‘ballroom dancing' is derived from the word  ball, which in turn originates from the Latin word  ballare  which means ‘to dance' (a ballroom being a large room specially designed for such dances). In times past, ballroom dancing was  social dancing  for the privileged, leaving  folk dancing  for the lower classes. These boundaries have since become blurred, and it should be noted even in times long gone, many ballroom dances were really elevated folk dances. The definition of ballroom dance also depends on the era: balls have featured popular dances of the day such as the  Minuet,  Quadrille, Polonaise,  Polka,  Mazurka, and others, which are now considered to be  historical dances. Ballroom  Dances 1. Cha Cha The Cha Cha is a lively, flirtatious ballroom dance full of passion and energy. The classic â€Å"Cuban motion† gives the Cha Cha its unique style. Partners work together to synchronize each movement in perfect alignment. 2. Foxtrot The Foxtrot is a ballroom dance that is lots of fun and simple to learn†¦ n excellent dance for beginners. The Foxtrot is a smooth dance in which dancers make long, flowing movements across the floor. 3. Jive Jive is a ballroom dance style that originated in the United States from African-Americans. It is a lively form of Swing dance, and a variation of the Jitterbug. 4. Lindy Hop The Lindy Hop is the ballroom dance considered to be the father of all Swing dances. It is known for its unique, athletic style, and often contains aerial jumps, twists and flips. 5. Mambo he Mambo is one of the most sensual and emotional Latin American ballroom dances. Swaying hip movements, facial expressions, arm movements and holds all add to the sensuality of the dance. 6. Paso Doble The Paso Doble is one of the liveliest ballroom dances, originating in southern France. It is modeled after the sound, drama, and movement of the Spanish bullfight. 7. Quickstep The Quickstep is a quick version of the Foxtrot. It is a ballroom dance comprised of extremely quick stepping, syncopated feet rhythms, and runs of quick steps. The Quickstep is exciting to watch, but among the most difficult of all the ballroom dances. . Rumba The Rumba is considered by many to be the most romantic and sensual of all Latin ballroom dances. It is often referred to as the â€Å"Grandfather of the Latin dances. † 9. Samba Possibly the most popular of all Brazilian ballroom dances, the Samba is popular with young people as well as older generations. The Samba can be performed solo or with a partner. 10. Tango The Tango is one of the most fascinating of all ballroom danc es. This sensual ballroom dance originated in South America in the early twentieth century. 1. Viennese Waltz The Viennese Waltz is a quick rotating ballroom dance with a subtle rise and fall. It is considered by most to be one of the most difficult dances to learn. The simple and elegant rotational movement characterizes the Viennese Waltz. 12. Waltz The Waltz is one of the smoothest ballroom dances. It is a progressive dance marked by long, flowing movements, continuous turns, and â€Å"rise and fall. † The dance is so graceful and elegant, Waltz dancers appear to glide around the floor with almost no effort.