The term ballroom dancing is often used as an all-encompassing reference to partner dances. These dances are those that originated in the “Western” world for social dancing. Today they are used not only socially for the purpose of dancing and entertainment but ballroom dancing is also often used for competitive purposes as well.
Today, ballroom dancing is becoming much narrower by definition. Rather than being as all inclusive as it may have been in the past, there are specific dances that are often considered to be part of the “ballroom dancing” family and specific dances, though they may be partner dances, that are excluded from that umbrella. This is especially the case when it comes to the world of competitive dancing.
Early pioneers in bringing ballroom dancing to the height of popularity were Vernon and Irene Castle. Their career was ended all too quickly as the result of a tragic training accident that took the life of Vernon Castle. There are two other names that almost everyone in the United States recognizes when it comes to ballroom dancing. While they were not pioneers in this form of dance, they were certainly pioneers when it came to bringing this beautiful style of dance into the homes and hearts of average people. By taking their moves to the big screen, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers became icons around the world when it came to ballroom dancing but especially in the U.S.
Dances that are included beneath the ballroom dancing umbrella are many. Some of them include the Tango, Foxtrot, the Cha-Cha, Jive, The Hustle, Paso Doble, the Waltz, and the Quick Step. There are others, of course, and what passes for ballroom dancing in one country may not be included, at least when it comes to competitive ballroom dancing, in other countries or on an international stage.
Through the years we have witnessed the rise and fall and rise again of ballroom dancing as well as various dances that have carried the title. It is good that the title is fluid to some degree as this evolutionary process allows ballroom dancing to appeal to new audiences over time. In other words, ballroom dancing appeals to dancers of all ages because of its similarities to the dances of old while keeping an eye on the future of dancing and the ability to bring in new moves and dances that invite the young to participate and compete.
Ballroom dancing as we know it originated in England and France during the 1800’s. Its original design was as a more sophisticated dance than the folk dances enjoyed by the peasants and another indicator of status. It is widely believed that many of the original ballroom dances were very closely related to the folk dances they were designed to shun. Over time ballroom dancing has seen many incarnations and reinventions throughout the year but has proven to be an enduring style of dance that has captured the hearts, minds, and passions of many over the last two centuries.
If you have not yet taken the time to check out the ballroom dancing videos please take a moment to do so. It is nearly impossible to watch couples dancing with this sort of excitement, passion, and grace without wanting to get up and dance along with them. If you are interested in ballroom dancing or think you may be interested in this amazing style of dance it is an excellent idea to begin lessons and learning these moves for yourself. You have nothing to lose by learning ballroom dancing and so much to gain. What are you waiting for? Get started on your ballroom dancing journey today.