Ballroom dance classifications 2

Ballroom dance: Other forms of dances 2

Astaire and Rogers had an enormous influence on the American style of ballroom dancing. Their smooth style of dance inspired both professional and social dancers throughout America. This style of dance was largely based on the work of both Fred Astaire and Arthur Murray. Murray was well known for his dance studios. Astaire also developed dance studios with franchises across the US. Even today, Fred & Ginger dance classes and workshops are taught and remain quite popular.

Societies for both classic ballroom and vintage dance are popular today and have strived to preserve the ballroom dances of past generations. Many dance companies exist that perform at special events and the performers are usually adorned in the traditional dance costumes. There are different specialties, depending on the dance company, or in some cases the performance, that depict a certain place or time. They may also depict the fad dances that may have been associated with the music or style of a certain era, such as The Twist of the early 1960's; or even with a certain song, such as YMCA or the Macarena (remember those?). Actually, you will still hear the song "YMCA" performed at many events, as well as the "motions" that go along with it.

Dancers who are involved in competition tend to be more oriented towards the audience; whereas social dancers tend to focus more on the connection with their partners, as well as the music. Social dancers put connection and music first; but performers will put appearance first.

There is a fairly new interest in that of formation dance which is also performance oriented.

Ballroom dancing for competitive purposes involves several couples that perform before judges and an audience. The couple is identified by a number which the man wears on his back, and many of the audience members will cheer for their favorite couple. Oftentimes, the winning couple will perform a victory dance after the awards are presented.

Dance studios often hold showcases whereby the students can show off their newly developed dance skills. These noncompetitive forms of ballroom dance are a great way for new dances to perform without the concern for competition.
 

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