It has been universally recognized that ballroom dancing is great recreation, fantastic exercise, and a terrific way to develop self-confidence and hone social skills.
Ballroom dancing was first introduced in the 18th century and its origins can be traced back to England where ballroom dancing was performed by the elite and upper strata of society, in social gatherings and at balls. During the late 19th century it became trendy among the working and middle class who held ballroom dances in public dance halls. Like other dance forms, while ballroom dances have recognizable steps, they are also vehicles of expressing feelings, thoughts and emotions.
History of Ballroom Dancing
Historically ballroom dancing referred to any form of formal social dancing performed as a way of recreation.The modern closed couple position of the Viennese Waltz was first invented in the 1700s, (and spread to England in the 1800’s), at the same time as which the Polka and Tango gained popularity and evolved in other parts of Europe.
Ballroom dancing hit America in the early 1900s, incorporating variations such as the Foxtrot, Swing and Quickstep, shortly followed by Cuban, Caribbean and Latin influences of Rumba, Samba, Mambo and Cha Cha Cha.
Modern Ballroom Dancing
Today ballroom dancing has transformed from a social activity to a competitive sport. The modern ballroom dances have been categorized and standardized. This dance style now follows internationally agreed upon terms, techniques, rhythms and tempos.
There are five different steps which are danced in ballroom dancing events. They are diverse in origin but are all danced by a couple i.e. a man and a woman in a ‘Closed Hold.’
The Ballroom Dance Hold
Conventionally the man takes the lead and the lady follows. There are 5 contact points which are to be maintained throughout the dance.
• The man’s left hand hold lady’s right hand.
• The lady’s left hand rests on top of the right arm of the male partner with Tango being an exception and the lady’s left hand resting behind the male partner’s arm.
• The man’s right hand is positioned on the lady’s left shoulder.
• The lady’s left elbow is placed at the man’s right elbow.
• The chest of both partners touch on the right side.
1. Modern Waltz:
A sedate version of Viennese Waltz that has characteristic turns and dips. It’s danced with couples face to face, with arms on each other’s shoulders and hips.
2. Tango:
It’s a light spirited Flamenco originally from Spain. Its emphasis is on leg movements, proud torso and sharp leg movements that have a staccato action.
3. Viennese Waltz:
A dance performed to music with 3 beats to the bar. Today it’s danced to a tempo of 180 beats per minute.
4. Slow Foxtrot:
A more romantic Foxtrot performed to a 4/4 rhythm of about 120 beats/minute tempo.
