Ballroom dance is a set of partner dances, which are enjoyed

both socially and competitively around the world, and growing all the more popular in North America.

Because of itsperformance and entertainment aspects, ballroom dance is also widely enjoyed

on stage, film, and television.

Ballroom dance may refer, at its widest definition, to almost any type of partner dancing as

recreation. However, with the emergence of dancesport in modern times, the term has become

narrower in scope, and traditionally refers to the five International Standard and five International

Latin style dances (see dance categories below). The two styles, while differing in technique, rhythm

and costumes, exemplify core elements of ballroom dancing such as control and cohesiveness.

Developed in England,[1] the two styles are now regulated by the World Dance Council (WDC). In the

United States, two additional variations are popular: American Smooth and American Rhythm, which

combine elements of both traditional Latin and Ballroom dances.

History of Ballroom Dance

Ballroom dance refers collectively to a set of partner dances, which originated in Germany and are now enjoyed both socially and competitively around the globe. Its performance and entertainment aspects are also widely enjoyed on stage, in film, and on television.

While historically ballroom dance may refer to any form of formal social dancing as recreation, with the eminence of dancesport in modern times the term has become much narrower in scope, usually referring specifically to the International Standard and International Latin style dances (see dance categories below). In the United States, two additional variations"American Smooth" and "American Rhythm"have also been popularized and are commonly recognized as styles of "ballroom dance".

Definitions and History

The term "ballroom dancing" is derived from the word ball, which in turn originates from the Latin word ballare which means "to dance". 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 Minuet, Quadrille, Polonaise, Pas de Gras, Mazurka, and other popular dances of the day, which are considered to be historical dances. Today, the term applies to any one of the several dances in which two individuals, a "leader" and a "follower," dance with physical contact through their upper or lower bodies, or simply their arms depending on the particular variety of dance. Since most social dancing is unchoreographed, this contact is necessary for the leader to communicate the next dance move to the follower, and for the follower to respond to this insinuation. This stands in stark contrast with the style(s) of dance seen in clubs and other social gatherings where physical contact tends to be optional and the individuals in question can move freely without any such restraints imposed by firm physical contact or by the necessity to follow the rhythmic pattern present in the music. Some knowledge of known step patterns is essential for both the leader as well as the follower for ballroom dancing. As most ballroom style dances require some knowledge and practice, they have lessened in popularity among the public in the recent decades. Dance historians usually mark the appearance of the twist in the early 1960s as the end of social partner dancing.

Types of Ballroom Dance

1.   Cha Cha The Cha Cha is a lively, flirtatious ballroom dance full of passion and energy. The classic "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...an 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

The 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. 

8.   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 "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 dances. This sensual ballroom dance originated in South America in the early twentieth century. 

11.   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 "rise and fall." The dance is so graceful and elegant, Waltz dancers appear to glide around the floor with almost no effort. 

13. Boogiewoogie is a form of swing dance and a form of blues piano playing.