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Types of Styles

International Standard Ballroom

Ballroom Dance: Ballroom dancing is one of the most entertaining and elite styles of dancing. In the earlier days, ballroom dancewas only for the privileged class of people, the socialites if you must. This style of dancing with a partner, originated in Germany, but is now a popular act followed in varied dance styles. Today, the popularity of is evident, given the innumerable shows and competitions worldwide that revere dance, in all its form.

This dance includes many other styles sub-categorized under this. There are many dance techniques that have been developed especially in America. The International Standard recognizes around 10 styles that belong to the category of ballroom dancing, whereas the American style has few forms that are different from those included under the International Standard.

Tango: It definitely does take two to and this dance also belongs to the American Style category. Like all ballroom dancers, the male has to lead the female partner. The of this dance is what sets it apart from other styles, varying between the International Standard, and that which is American.

Waltz: The is danced to melodic, slow and is an equally beautiful dance form. The waltz is a graceful form of dance, that requires fluidity and delicate movement. When danced by the International Standard norms, this dance is performed more closely towards each other as compared to the American Style.

Foxtrot: , as a dance style, gives a dancer flexibility to combine slow and fast dance steps together. This was named after the Harry Fox.

Viennese Waltz: This style of ballroom dance is based on the original form of the waltz. There are many versions of this style of dance. It originated in the latter period of the 18th century.

Quickstep: This style belongs to the International Style of Ballroom dancing which originated in the 1920s. This dance includes many steps with quick momentum. As seen in the move 'Dance With Me', the Foxtrot is both fun, and a dance that requires synchronicity.

Cha-Cha-Cha: The cha-cha-cha simply called the cha-cha is a type of Latin-American dance which is very rhythmic in its appeal. This dance is energetic with slow movements as well.

Rumba: This sensual dance is based on slow hip movement. Rumba belongs to the International Standard as well as the American style. This dance is known for the beauty of the steps that are coordinated on a slow .

Samba: This beautiful and energetic dance also has many forms. The steps may differ in that is danced as per the ballroom style and the traditional style samba choreography.

Jive: This is yet another lively form of ballroom dance. This dance is also amongst the five dances that belong to the Latin American dance styles. Seen as a dance style that had taken the 30s and 40s (dancers moved mostly to music) to perfect and pass on years later, still keeping it just as upbeat like it were back in the day.

Paso Doble: This lively dance is also an International style with less emphasis on hip movement. The structure of this Latin dance is based on the sounds and the movements used in Spanish bullfights.

American Style Dances

Bolero: This type of dance style is basically slow and originated in Spain. It can be danced solo or as a couple.

Mambo: is a Latin dance that makes the use of many steps which are considered complex in origin. Mambo is also known as the root of dance.

East Coast : This type of is based on the . dancing consists of many simple steps that follow the basics of Lindy Hop. Styles of Ballroom Dances Worldwide:

Salsa: Salsa has its base in areas of , Puerto Rico, and . This partner dance is a very sensual form that is known for its flirtatious and lively antics. While dancing the salsa, the couples can even perform in the same spot, without shifting around the dance floor. The dance steps show many influences from other dances such as the Mambo, Changui, Palo, Rumba etc. There are many other various forms of the Salsa such as the Cuban style, New York style, Colombian style, and the style.

Merengue: This type of dance requires the partners to be together in a close position. The steps are often in circular movements or away from each other in a sideway fashion. There are many intricate steps to this dance.

Bachata: This is a romantic style of dance that finds its origins in the Dominican Republic. The is a little similar to the .

Lambada: Sexy and stylish, the is a Brazilian dance that is performed as a couple or even in groups. This dance was particularly in the limelight because of the famous track 'Lambada' by a music group, ''.

Polka: This is a style of dance that also refers to a type of music. The is a fast-paced dance, which is also present in various styles.

Hustle: The is performed as a Ballroom dance and is very popular in as well. The Hustle was particularly popular due to the movie, 'Saturday Night Fever'.

Swing Dance: The Swing dance style originated in the 1920s - 1930s. There are many versions of the Swing dance such as the Lindy Hop, , Woogie, , etc. Rock 'n' Roll is a very sporty form of dance that is extremely popular as well. Boogie Woogie is another dance style that is seen mainly in Europe. This dance is also seen in competitions.

Ballet Dance: is the kind of dance that a lot of us wish we could mimic, given the way the dancers glide over the dance floor, often a dance that portrays a story or idea. This dance was developed in France and Russia. is the most formal and style of ballet. Apart from this, there is and .

Breakdance: popularized to a huge extent. Breakdancing is actually a form of that was a part of the hip-hop . Breakdance is relatively a male dominated type of dance style. This type of dance is characterized with 'dance battles' between groups. The 'Downrock' and the '' are some of the typical forms of breakdance.

Hip Hop Dance: This style is actually a street dance style and is a combination of dance moves combined with loads of attitude as well as colorful dance-wear. In the early days, this style was generally seen in breakdancing and from there on, one could witness many innovations of this dance style. There are various other styles used with dance, which includes and . The hip-hop outfits have to be selected with care, which helps to add to the overall appeal of the dance form.

Step Dance: This category includes dances that make use of . This type of dance generally require one to have a rigid stance with more movement of one's feet. Step dances are basically social dances. A good example of this dance would be Irish dancing.

Tap Dance: is an extremely popular form of dance. Here the emphasis is on the movements of the feet and steps that create a tapping sound. This dance finds its origins in the United States. The tapping sound is due to the presence of metal plates on the soles of the .

Flamenco Dance: The dance and music is very much a major part of the culture of Spain. The beautiful songs a major role for this type of dance style. This beautiful style is also particularly noticeable due to the gorgeous costumes. The music always includes the flamenco guitar.

Fandango: This dance style is one of the main dances in Portugal. It involves the tapping of the feet and quick changes of the position. This is a , which has its origins in Southern Spain. However, there are many theories about the origins of the same.

Jazz Dance: finds its origins in the African-American culture. From the olden days till date, there are many influences that have added variety to this dance form. One can see many overlapping steps in jazz dancing, which are common to others. These steps in Jazz dance that mimic other forms are the change, the pivot step, the toe rise, the pirouettes, the jazz walk etc. Jazz dance is basically an energetic form that is equally graceful like other dances. This type of dance can also incorporate various styles.

Folk Dance: Folk dances are always performed in groups at social events. This does not mean the dancers need to be professionally trained. A folk dance can be attempted by all types of common folk. Every country and region has its own unique style of folk dance. There are various forms of folk dances one can see all over the world. From the energetic Indian folk dances to the Scottish country dances, they have their own beauty and charm.

Modern Dance: involves the use of many dance steps that are unusual and often interpret a dancer's emotions and mood. The dancer in this case typically performs on bare feet. In Modern dance, it's not only the choreography that speaks about the emotions to be conveyed. The lighting, costumes and props are used with great creativity to arrange interesting and unusual dance sequences.

Country/Western Dances: These types of dances are performed with . These social dances follow the typical pattern where the male leads in the dance and the partner follows. Therefore, this dance style includes both, the partner as well as the group dances. The country/western dances, which are partner based, include the Two Step, Waltz, Polka, Cotton Eyed Joe etc. The group dances include the , the , , modern Western square dance etc.

Contra Dance: This dance is a form of folk dancing. Here, the couples have to dance in two lines. These couples also have to face each other. There are various sequences, which couples need to perform. This social dance is a very fun form and is also very easy to learn.

Belly Dance: There are many theories about the origins of this form of dance. Some say this dance originated in ancient upper Egypt where a few say its basics were developed in Uzbekistan and then were passed on to . is more particularly danced in nightclubs and is now also emerging as a new way to remain fit, especially for the ladies. The basic steps involve the use of circular movements by the hips with a shimmy for the shoulders. Belly dancing would require one to be really flexible. The costumes are rather bold and often revealing. This is sometimes combined with face veils and hip belts with embellishments.

Traditional Indian Dances

India is a land of great mix of , with a wide variety of dances that can range from folk to the classical. The Indian dances all vary as per the region it originates from and each have a distinct style from the steps to the kind of costumes worn. Besides, these dances also represent a particular culture. The steps are based around a strict style that is followed by the people who know them well. Improvisations come in later. The dance also makes the use of 'Natya' or acting to portray stories, often of and .

Kathak: Kathak is characterized with fast footwork and numerous 'chakkars' or spins used in the compositions. This dance originated from the northern part of India. The name is actually a Sanskrit word which means katha - to tell a story. Kathak, like all other traditional dances of India follow the pattern where the guru passes on the knowledge to the student, also known as the 'shishya'. Kathak is also performed in various styles or Gharanas, such as the Lucknow Gharana, Jaipur Gharana, Rajgarh Gharana and the Banaras Gharana. Today, with the popularity of fusion, Kathak is used combined with newly incorporated steps to keep up with modern times, while still remaining traditional.

Kathakali: The main feature about Kathakali is the striking costumes and makeup. This is a form of dance that originated in the Southern state of Kerala. The makeup used is one of the most interesting features of this dance. This is an elaborate procedure, which is combined with a large decorative headgear.

Mohiniattam: This dance has its origins in Kerala. A very graceful dance, the in this case are generally solo and mainly performed by women. This type of dance includes very rhythmic movements with elaborate . Mudras are hand gestures used to express a particular meaning.

Bharatnatyam: One of the popular dances in India along with Kathak, is Bharatnatyam, where it originates from a place in the south known as Tamil Nadu. This dance uses the base of storytelling combined with pure dance movements. The dance is also distinctive due to the particular styles of dressing and makeup. The origins of this dance go back to the . In the ancient days, this dance was performed only by the Devdasis. However, in recent times, this dance is not only popular in India, it has traveled across the globe as well.

Odissi: This type of classical dance is also amongst the most popular types of dances seen in India today. This classical dance has its origins in Orissa, India and can be distinguished from other styles of Indian dance due to the specific movements of the body. Like all other forms of , the knowledge is passed on from the teacher to the student (guru to shishya).

Kuchipudi: This classical Indian dance has its roots in Andhra Pradesh. Danced on the accompaniment of , this dance is also gaining popularity outside India. The style may be a little similar to Bharatnatyam, however, there are many unique steps that belong purely to this dance.

Manipuri: Manipuri is quite different from other forms of Indian dance in terms of the costume as well as the dance steps. The dancer uses subtle movements, basically, using many rhythmic movements that qualify as gentle and simple, without pomp. The costume can be distinguished easily due to the stiff cylindrical skirt.

Sattriya: This traditional style of dance originates from . This style of dance was the creation of Sankardeva. As per the records, it's observed that only males perform this dance style. Initially, there was a delay in the inclusion of this style of dance as a traditional Indian dance. However, since 2000, it received the recognition by the Sangeet Natak Academy.

Bhangra: A very lively dance, the has its origins in . The energetic movements, particularly of the men, accompanied by the beating of the drums are a sight to behold. The costumes are colorful and add to the liveliness of the atmosphere. Bhangra music and dance is now incorporated even in and has spread to many areas around the world.

Lavani: This folk dance is very popular and was first seen during the Peshwa rule. This dance is accompanied by typical music where the lead dancer is accompanied by a group of other dancers in the background. This dance has its origins in Maharashtra.

Garba: This Indian dance is often compared to the social dances that are seen in the West. is danced in a circular format amongst groups and has its origins in Gujarat. Like any other Indian classical dance, this dance is performed also for religious purposes. Today, Garba also sees influences from Raas- another traditional dance. The is very popular and is performed with sticks.

Dekhni: Dekhni is one of the popular folk dances of Goa. This dance has an interesting combination of Western as well as Indian music, and is always centered around a girl. The theme is based on a girl who wants to cross the river and needs to persuade the boatman to help her cross the same. The other dancers carry small lit clay lamps.

Bollywood Dance: The Indian film industry () is known for its inclusion of the song and dance routine in most of its movies. Form the olden days till date; there has been a massive change in the styles that are presented. The dances in the olden days were subtle and often incorporated folk dances, or western dancing (as seen in Indian black and white films). However, in recent times, women especially have been given a bold look and there is the merging of discotheque sequences and steps that are very typical of Bollywood. The craze for this song and dance routine is such that there are special shows designed for the fans abroad so that they can get a glimpse of their favorite stars dancing to Bollywood tracks.

This was a glimpse of all the types of dance styles that are performed all across the world. It's interesting to note the different variations and styles that dancers use. The talent for dance has grown exponentially in the past couple of years, with even kids taking the limelight. There is no limit when it comes to dancing, since change and improvisation is at its peak, with dance taking a whole new platform in today's world. Dance seems to be a lot like ice cream flavors...it's so hard to choose just one. If you are thinking of trying out a new dance style, there may be a few you haven't even considered. Check out this list of dance genres and see which one appeals to you. There are many fun types of dance, you may need to sample a few to find your favorite. Ballet

Digital Vision / Getty Images Ballet serves as a backbone for many other styles of dance, as many other dance genres are based on ballet. Ballet is based on techniques that have been developed over centuries. Ballet uses music and dance to tell stories. Ballet dancers have the ability to transport an audience to another world.

Jazz

Stockbyte / Getty Images Jazz is a fun dance style that relies heavily on originality and improvisation. Many jazz dancers mix different styles into their dancing, incorporating their own expression. Jazz dancing often uses bold, dramatic body movements, including body isolations and contractions. Tap

Donna Ward/Stringer / Getty Images Tap dancing is an exciting form of dance in which dancers wear special shoes equipped with metal taps. Tap dancers use their feet like drums to create rhythmic patterns and timely beats. Hip-Hop

Photodisc / Getty Images Hip-hop is a dance style, usually danced to hip-hop music, that evolved from the hip-hop culture. Hip- hop includes various moves such as breaking, popping, locking and , and even . Improvisation and personal interpretation are essential to hip-hop dancing.

Modern Photodisc / Getty Images Modern dance is a dance style that rejects many of the strict rules of classical ballet, focusing instead on the expression of inner feelings. Modern dance was created as a rebellion against classical ballet, emphasizing creativity in choreography and performance. Swing

Photodisc / Getty Images Swing dance is a lively dance style in which couples swing, and jump together. Swing dancing is a general term that means dancing to swing music, or music that "swings." How can you tell if a song swings? Swing dancers know when a song swings because when they hear it, they can't stand still.

Betty Ann Sather / Great Meadow Music Contra dance is a form of American folk dance in which the dancers form two parallel lines and perform a sequence of dance movements with different partners down the length of the line. Contra dances are relaxed with family-like atmospheres. The dancing is excellent exercise, and dancers can set their own pace. Contra dancers are usually friendly, active people with a love of dance. Country and Western

Michael Buckner / Getty Images Country and western dance includes several dance forms, usually danced to country-western music. If you've ever been to a country and western club or tavern, you've probably seen a few cowboy boot- wearing dancers twirling around the dance floor with big smiles on their faces. Ads Tango North LondonTango: learn and dance Lessons, practice, social dancing!www.zerohouruk.com by CapezioA large selection of Tights Check out our discounted prices.www.secondskinshop.com Belly Dance

Photodisc / Getty Images Belly dance is a unique form of dance characterized by sharp, rolling movements of the hips and abdomen. The true origins of belly dancing are debated among enthusiasts.

Flamenco Jess Alford / Getty Images Flamenco dance is an expressive dance form that mixes percussive footwork with intricate hand, arm and body movements. Flamenco is a Spanish consisting of three forms: Cante, the song, Baile, the dance, and Guitarra, guitar playing. . Latin Dance

Stockbyte / Getty Images Latin dance is a fast-paced, often sensual, partner dance characterized by sexy hip movements. However, hip movements are not intentional in any of the Latin dances. The hip motion is a natural consequence of changing weight from one foot to the other. Folk Dance

Guang Niu / Getty Images Folk dance refers to a variety of dances developed by groups or communities, as opposed to being made up by a choreographer. There are several types of folk dance including , English , , , dance, , Nordic dance, square dance, and many more. Folk dances are often performed at social events. Kinds of Dance Steps

Dance is an art form or sports activity that is typically used in performance, liturgical or expressionist venues. From the French word, "danser," dance involves the movement of your body (typically to the beat of music) in various fashions according to the style being used. There are many different types of dance steps---but those featured in ballet, modern, jazz, hip hop and ballroom are the most frequently used. Related Searches: • Latin Dance • Ballet Dance Ballet

o Created in Italy during the by the Medici family, ballet is the most stylized and formal dance form. Starting between the ages of 11 to 13, girls begin to train en pointe and dance on their toes with the pointe : a silky pink shoe with a squared-off toe made out of a paper mache material. With many years of training, a ballerina can pirouette (spin) and dance with her partner on her toes. When men dance ballet, they learn how to leap and turn high in the air and take special partner lessons to dance a ("a dance of two") with a ballerina. The Paris Ballet and the Bolshoi Ballet are leaders in ballet today. Modern

o Developed by , and Paul Taylor, modern dance has become a favorite in the dancing world.This dance style was created to reveal emotion and to "humanize" the art form. The main idea of modern is to manipulate the space around you. The steps of modern can be extreme---slow movement versus quick, smooth versus choppy and large versus small. A few modern dance companies to note are Alvin Ailey and the Paul Taylor Dance Company. Jazz

o Jazz can be seen as a combination of ballet and Broadway. The steps chasse, jete and pas de bourree are all from ballet while , and Bee's Knees are elements of "old Hollywood." Jazz has high-energy and is performed with intense, usually quick music. The idea of "center control" is important to this dance style; without a secure center (abdominal area), a lot of the steps and movements would be difficult to do. A notable jazz dance company is Giordano Jazz Dance based in Chicago. Hip-Hop/Pop

o Hip-hop dancing covers a large spectrum; breaking, locking, popping and krumping can be categorized under this dance form. It is strenuous and mostly improvisational; a lot of people simply make up steps that go with the heavy beats of the music. There are currently no hip-hop "companies" per se, but dancers usually travel around in "crews" and compete against others. , Beat Freaks, Kaba Modern and Krump Kings are some distinguished crews. Ballroom

o Ballroom is a popular recreational activity, especially for people who have no previous dance experience. There are several and styles within ballroom: , and Swing are quick; Waltz, Foxtrot and are slower and sometimes slinky; and the Tango, Flamenco and Cha-Cha are somewhere in between. Each style has a certain set of steps that correspond with the timing of the accompanying music and the character of the dance. America's Ballroom Challenge is a popular competition that is aired on PBS.

Read more: Kinds of Dance Steps | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/about_5457570_kinds- dance-steps.html#ixzz1ixeVm1qG