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10 Ballroom Dances

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NAME: Sheena Louise Ella M.

Barcenas YR/SECTION: BSN2-A1


Time/SCHEDULE: MW 9:30 AM-10:30 AM DATE: October 13, 2023

10 BALLROOM DANCES
FOXTROT

The Foxtrot is a smooth and graceful ballroom dance that emerged in the early 20th
century. It was developed in the United States, gaining popularity in the 1910s and
1920s. The dance was influenced by various other dance styles, including the One-
Step and the Vaudeville, and is characterized by its flowing movements and elegant
gliding across the dance floor.

The Foxtrot's name is believed to have originated from its creator, Harry Fox, a
vaudeville performer who introduced the dance in 1914. Fox's dance incorporated
elements of ragtime music and other contemporary styles of the time. The Foxtrot's
smooth and versatile style made it a favorite among dancers and audiences alike.

Throughout the 20th century, the Foxtrot continued to evolve and adapt to changes
in music and dance styles. It became a staple in ballroom competitions and social
dances around the world.

Here's a short step-by-step guide to performing the Foxtrot in ballroom dance


(https://www.learntodance.com/online-ballroom-dance-lessons/foxtrot-dance-steps-
online/) :

1. Starting Position 3. Repeat


- Stand facing your partner in a - Reverse the movement, starting
closed dance position. The leader's with a "slow" step in the opposite
right hand holds the follower's left direction (backward for the leader,
hand, and the leader's left hand is forward for the follower), followed by
placed on the follower's shoulder blade. the two "quick" steps as before.
The follower's right hand rests on the
leader's left arm. 4. Progressive Movement
- To move across the dance floor,
2. Basic Movement (Box Step) incorporate progressive steps. For
- Begin with a "slow" step forward example, the
with your left foot (leader) or backward leader can take a slow step forward,
with your right foot (follower). followed by quick steps to the side and
- Follow with a "quick" step to the then forward again, while the follower
side with your right foot (leader) or left mirrors these movements.
foot (follower), and then a "quick" step
to close your feet together.
5. Turning allowing the follower to pivot and face
- To execute turns, maintain a a new direction while maintaining
smooth rotation while still adhering to contact.
the basic rhythm. For instance, during
a right turn, the leader can pivot to the 7. Glide and Sway
right on the slow step, followed by - Emphasize the elegance of the
quick steps. Foxtrot by incorporating a gliding
motion as you move across the floor.
6. Promenade Position Allow your body to sway slightly with
- Transition into promenade position the music, adding a graceful touch.
by opening up your frame slightly,
CHA CHA

The Cha-Cha is a lively and energetic ballroom dance that originated in the early
1950s. It emerged from a fusion of Cuban and American dance styles, particularly
the Mambo and the Rumba. The dance gained popularity in both the United States
and Cuba, eventually becoming a staple in ballroom competitions and social dance
scenes worldwide.

The term "Cha-Cha" is believed to derive from the sound of dancers' feet hitting the
floor in a syncopated rhythm. The dance's catchy beat and infectious rhythm quickly
captivated audiences, leading to its widespread popularity.

In the mid-20th century, the Cha-Cha became a prominent dance in both Latin
American and international ballroom competitions. Its vibrant and dynamic
movements, characterized by quick steps and playful hip motion, continue to make
it a favorite among dancers of all levels.

Here's a basic step-by-step guide for performing the Cha-Cha in ballroom dance
(https://www.dancing4beginners.com/cha-cha/):
1. Starting Position - 3. Back Rock Step On count "3,"
- Stand facing your partner, take a small step back with your left
maintaining a slight distance between foot.
each other. - 4-and-1. Cha-Cha (Side Step) On
- Hold your partner's hand with your counts "4-and-1," replace your weight
right hand, and place your left hand on onto your right foot, then quickly step
their shoulder blade. Your partner's left to the side with your left foot.
hand should be on your shoulder.
4. Basic Step for Follower
2. Basic Rhythm - Reverse the steps mentioned for the
- The Cha-Cha is danced in a 4/4 time leader. So, start with a small step back
signature. It's counted as "1, 2, 3, 4- with your right foot on count "1."
and-1," where the "and" indicates a
half beat. 5. Hip Motion
- The Cha-Cha is known for its
3. Basic Step for Leader distinctive hip motion. It's a
- 1. Forward Rock Step: On count "1," syncopated rhythm where the hips
take a small step forward with your left move forward and back in sync with the
foot. steps.
- 2. Cha-Cha (Side Step) On count
"2," replace your weight onto your right 6. Maintain Frame
foot. - Keep your upper body aligned with
your partner's, maintaining a slight
lean towards each other. This helps
with balance and connection. 8. Practice and Timing
- Practice is key! Start slow and
7. Turning and Variations gradually increase the tempo as you
- Once you're comfortable with the become more comfortable with the
basic step, you can add turns and steps and timing.
variations to make the dance more
dynamic and interesting.
TANGO

The Tango is a passionate and dramatic ballroom dance originating in the late 19th
century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It emerged
from a fusion of diverse immigrant influences, including European, African, and
indigenous elements. Initially danced in port areas and local gatherings, the Tango
gradually gained popularity, becoming an integral part of Argentine culture.

In the early 20th century, Tango musicians and dancers toured Europe, particularly
Paris, where it enjoyed widespread acclaim. This marked the beginning of its
international influence. The 1930s to the 1950s are considered the "Golden Age" of
Tango, characterized by the rise of iconic musicians and orchestras.

While its popularity declined in the mid-20th century, a resurgence occurred in the
1980s and 1990s, with a renewed interest in traditional dances and the influence of
the Broadway show "Tango Argentino."

Here's a brief guide on how Tango ballroom dance is performed


(https://www.dancing4beginners.com/tango/):

1. Starting Position 4. Forward and Backward Walks


- Stand facing your partner in a - Leader's Steps: On the first beat,
closed dance frame. Hold your lead with your left foot, taking a
partner's right hand with your left, and forward step, and then follow with a
place your right hand on their back. quick step of your right foot. On beats
Your partner's left hand should rest on three and four, take slow steps
your right shoulder. backward.
- Follower's Steps: Reverse the steps
2. Basic Stance described for the leader.
- Keep your upper body close,
maintaining a strong frame, and 5. Side Steps (Promenade)
maintain eye contact with your partner. - Lead a side step by gently guiding
your partner to your right side. Both
3. Basic Rhythm partners take a side step together.
- Tango is danced in a 4/4 time
signature with a distinct staccato feel. 6. Crossover Steps
The counts are often quick-quick-slow- - The leader can introduce crossover
slow, with emphasis on the first and steps by stepping slightly across the
third beats. follower's path, creating a dynamic and
dramatic effect.
7. Ochos (Figure-Eights) 9. Close Embrace (Optional)
- Leaders initiate ochos by guiding - In some styles of Tango, dancers
the follower in a figure-eight pattern. maintain a very close embrace
This adds flair and complexity to the throughout the dance, enhancing
dance. intimacy and connection.

8. Embrace the Drama 10. End with Elegance


- Tango is known for its intensity and - Conclude the dance with a graceful
dramatic expression. Engage with your pose or a final flourish, depending on
partner emotionally, and allow the the music and the mood.
passion of the music to influence your
movements.
RUMBA

The Rumba emerged in the late 19th century in Cuba, drawing influence from a mix
of African, Spanish, and Indigenous cultures. It was particularly prominent in the
Afro-Cuban communities. Initially, the Rumba encompassed various styles, including
Yambú (slow and flirtatious), Guaguancó (playful and upbeat), and Columbia
(energetic and acrobatic), each reflecting different aspects of Cuban life.

In the early 20th century, the Rumba gained popularity in Havana's social gatherings
and became an integral part of Cuban culture. By the 1930s and 1940s, the Rumba
made its way to the United States and Europe. It was embraced for its passionate
and exotic flair. In ballroom dancing, the Rumba evolved into a more structured and
slower version, focusing on the romantic and sensual elements of the dance. The
Ballroom Rumba became one of the five Latin American dances included in
international competitive ballroom dance.

Today, the Rumba remains a beloved dance style, known for its sensuality, intricate
hip movements, and expressive storytelling. It's an integral part of both Latin dance
culture and competitive ballroom dancing around the world.

Here's a brief guide on how to perform the Rumba ballroom dance


(https://www.dancing4beginners.com/rumba/):

1. Starting Position quick rhythm. This means the first step


- Stand facing your partner in a takes two beats, and the next two steps
closed dance position. The leader's each take one beat.
right hand holds the follower's left
hand, and the leader's left hand is 4. Forward and Backward Walks
placed on the follower's right shoulder -Leader's Steps On the first two
blade. The follower's right hand rests beats, lead with your left foot, taking a
on the leader's left arm. slow forward step, followed by a quick
step with your right foot, and another
2. Basic Stance quick step with your left foot.
- Keep your posture upright, maintain -Follower's Steps Reverse the steps
a slight bend in your knees, and stand described for the leader, starting with
close to your partner. Maintain eye your right foot.
contact and connection throughout the
dance.

3. Basic Rhythm
- The Rumba is typically danced in a
4/4 time signature with a slow-quick-
5. Hip Movement 8. Sensual Arm Movements
- The Rumba is known for its - Use your arms to frame and express
expressive hip movement. As you step the movements. They should flow
forward or back, engage your hips in a naturally with the dance, accentuating
gentle swaying motion. This adds the emotion and connection between
sensuality and fluidity to the dance. partners.
6. Cuban Motion
- This is a characteristic hip action in 9. Emotion and Expression
Rumba. As you take a step, transfer - The Rumba is a passionate and
your weight and push your hip slightly romantic dance. Focus on conveying
forward, then settle back on the emotion through your movements and
standing leg. Practice this motion to maintaining a strong connection with
achieve the distinctive Rumba style. your partner.

7. Side Steps and Turns 10. End with Elegance


- Incorporate side steps and gentle - Conclude the dance with a graceful
turns to add variety and expression to pose or a final flourish, depending on
your dance. Remember to maintain the the music and the mood.
connection with your partner.
JIVE

The Jive is an energetic and lively ballroom dance with roots in American jazz and
swing music. The Jive emerged in the United States in the early 20th century, drawing
influences from African American jazz and swing dances. During the swing era of the
1930s and 1940s, dances like the Lindy Hop and Jitterbug were popular. The Jive
evolved from these lively social dances. American soldiers stationed in Europe during
World War II introduced the Jive to European audiences. It quickly gained popularity
across the continent. In the post-war years, the Jive continued to evolve, particularly
in the UK, where it became a key dance style in the emerging ballroom and Latin
dance scene.

The Jive was standardized as one of the five Latin American dances in international
competitive ballroom dance, along with the Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, and Paso
Doble. It is characterized by its lively tempo, upbeat music, and energetic footwork.
It's known for quick kicks and flicks, as well as syncopated rhythms.

Here's a brief guide on how to perform the Jive ballroom dance


(https://www.dancing4beginners.com/jive/):

1. Starting Position foot on the first beat, then forward with


- Stand facing your partner in a your left foot on the second beat.
closed dance position. The leader's -Follower's Steps: Reverse the steps
right hand holds the follower's left described for the leader, starting with
hand, and the leader's left hand is your right foot.
placed on the follower's right shoulder
blade. The follower's right hand rests 5. Chasse
on the leader's left arm. - After the rock step, perform a
chasse. The leader steps to the side
2. Basic Stance with the right foot, then brings the left
- Keep your posture upright, maintain foot together, followed by a step to the
a slight bend in your knees, and stand side with the right foot again.
close to your partner. Maintain eye - The follower mirrors these steps in
contact and connection throughout the the opposite direction.
dance.
6. Kicks and Flicks
3. Basic Rhythm - Incorporate quick kicks and flicks of
- The Jive is danced in a 4/4 time the feet to add dynamic and energetic
signature with a quick-quick-slow-slow movement to the dance. These steps
rhythm. This means the first two steps are quick and sharp.
are quick, and the next two steps are
slower. 7. Triple Steps
- Integrate triple steps, which involve
4. Rock Step three quick steps in place. These are
- Leader's Steps: Start with a rock often used to change direction or add
step by stepping back with your left variation to the dance.
8. Syncopated Movements
- The Jive often includes syncopated 10. End with Elegance
movements, where steps are taken in - Conclude the dance with a graceful
between beats, creating a lively and pose or a final flourish, depending on
playful feel. the music and the mood.

9. Jumps and Lifts (Optional)


- For more advanced dancers, jumps
and lifts can be incorporated to
showcase athleticism and flair.
WALTZ

The Waltz is a graceful and elegant ballroom dance known for its flowing movements
and 3/4 time signature. The Waltz originated in the late 18th century in the ballrooms
of Vienna, Austria. It evolved from earlier German and Austrian folk dances, gaining
popularity among the aristocracy. In its early days, the Waltz faced controversy due
to its close hold and rotational movements, which were considered scandalous at the
time. Despite initial resistance, the dance gradually gained acceptance and became
a staple of ballroom culture.

The Waltz was codified as one of the five International Standard dances in competitive
ballroom dance, alongside the Tango, Foxtrot, Quickstep, and Viennese Waltz. The
Waltz remains a cornerstone of ballroom dance worldwide, appreciated for its
timeless elegance and romantic expression.

Here's a brief guide on how to perform the Waltz ballroom dance


(https://blog.dancevision.com/how-to-dance-waltz):

As a follower: As a leader:
1. Start with your weight on 1. Start with your weight on
your left foot with your right your right foot with your left
foot free. foot free.
2. Step back on your right foot. 2. Step forward with your left
3. Step side with your left foot. foot.
4. Close your right foot to your 3. Step side with your right
left foot, changing weight. foot.
5. Step forward with your left 4. Close your left foot to your
foot. right foot, changing weight.
6. Step side with your right 5. Step back on your right foot.
foot. 6. Step side with your left foot.
7. Close your left foot to your 7. Close your right foot to your
right foot, changing weight. left foot, changing weight.
8. Begin again! You may notice 8. Begin again! You may notice
that you have created a that you have created a
"box" on the floor with your "box" on the floor with your
feet, hence the terminology feet, hence the terminology
"Waltz box" to describe this "Waltz box" to describe this
basic step! basic step!
QUICKSTEP

The Quickstep is a lively and energetic ballroom dance that originated in the early
20th century. The Quickstep evolved from a combination of fast-paced dances like
the Foxtrot, Charleston, and the One-Step. It gained popularity in the 1920s as a
reaction to the upbeat music and the desire for more dynamic and spirited dances.

The Quickstep is characterized by its brisk tempo, syncopated steps, and lively
movements across the dance floor. It's known for its light, springy steps and
energetic atmosphere. It was standardized as one of the five International Standard
dances in competitive ballroom dance, alongside the Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, and
Viennese Waltz.

The Quickstep was heavily influenced by the jazz music of the time, which contributed
to its vibrant and lively nature.

Here's a brief guide on how to perform the Quickstep ballroom dance


(https://www.masterclass.com/articles/quickstep-dance-guide):

1. Starting Position 4. Quarter Turn to the Left


- Stand facing your partner in a -Leader's Steps: Start with a slow
closed dance position. The leader's forward step on the first two beats with
right hand holds the follower's left your left foot. Then, take a quick step
hand, and the leader's left hand is to the side with your right foot,
placed on the follower's right shoulder followed by another quick step forward
blade. The follower's right hand rests with your left foot.
on the leader's left arm. - Follower's Steps: Reverse the steps
described for the leader, starting with
2. Basic Stance your right foot.
- Maintain an upright posture, with a
slight bend in the knees. Stand close to 5. Quarter Turn to the Right
your partner, and keep eye contact - Repeat the steps, but this time, the
throughout the dance. leader starts with the right foot,
executing a quarter turn to the right.
3. Basic Rhythm
- The Quickstep is danced in 4/4 6. Chasse to the Left
time, but it's characterized by its brisk - Perform a chasse (a side-close-side
tempo. The rhythm is typically "slow- step) to the left, with the leader
quick-quick," where the first step takes starting with the left foot.
two beats, and the next two steps each
take one beat.
7. Chasse to the Right 9. Smooth Movements
- Repeat the chasse, this time to the - Keep movements light and precise,
right, with the leader starting with the aiming for a smooth flow across the
right foot. dance floor. Maintain a sense of control
and poise.
8. Turning Figures
- Integrate turning figures by 10. End with Elegance
gradually rotating as you execute the - Conclude the dance with a graceful
steps. This adds dynamic movement pose or a final flourish, in sync with the
and variety to the dance. music and the mood.
SAMBA

The Samba is an energetic and lively ballroom dance with roots in Brazilian and Afro-
Caribbean music and dance styles. Samba originated in Brazil in the late 19th and
early 20th centuries, influenced by various Brazilian dance forms, including the
Batuque and Maxixe. It developed as a fusion of African rhythms and Brazilian dance
traditions, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of Brazil.

Samba gained prominence during the annual Carnival celebrations in Rio de Janeiro,
where it became an integral part of the festivities. It was standardized as one of the
Latin American dances in international competitive ballroom dance, alongside dances
like the Cha-Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble, and Jive. It is characterized by its lively tempo,
syncopated rhythms, and dynamic hip movements. It's known for its exuberance and
celebratory nature.

Here's a brief guide on how to perform the Samba ballroom dance


(https://www.passion4dancing.com/how-to-dance-samba/):

1. Starting Position -Leader's Steps: Begin with a lateral


- Stand facing your partner in a (side) step to the left on the first beat.
closed dance position. The leader's Then, bring your feet together on the
right hand holds the follower's left "and" count, followed by a step to the
hand, and the leader's left hand is left again on the second beat.
placed on the follower's right shoulder - Follower's Steps:Reverse the steps
blade. The follower's right hand rests described for the leader, starting with a
on the leader's left arm. lateral step to the right.

2. Basic Stance 5. Volta Movements


- Keep an upright posture with a - Integrate volta movements, which
slight bend in the knees. Stand close to involve a turning action. These add flair
your partner and maintain eye contact and dynamic movement to the dance.
throughout the dance. The leader initiates the turn while
maintaining connection with the
3. Basic Rhythm follower.
- The Samba is danced in 2/4 or 4/4
time signatures with a lively and 6. Bota Fogos
syncopated rhythm. It's characterized - Incorporate Bota Fogos, which are
by its unique "and-a" timing, forward and backward traveling steps
emphasizing the off-beats. with a distinctive hip action. These
steps add a playful and rhythmic
4. Samba Basic Movement element to the dance.
7. Samba Rolls
- Execute Samba Rolls, which involve 9. Maintain Connection
a continuous swaying motion of the - Keep a consistent connection with
hips and upper body. This movement is your partner through your frame,
often performed in a zig-zag pattern especially when executing turns and
across the floor. volta movements.

8. Carioca Steps 10. End with Elegance


- Include Carioca steps, which are - Conclude the dance with a graceful
quick and precise side steps. These pose or a final flourish, in sync with the
steps are danced in a syncopated music and the mood.
manner, creating a lively and spirited
feel.
MAMBO

The Mambo is a lively and rhythmic ballroom dance with its roots in Cuban and Afro-
Caribbean music and dance styles. It originated in the late 1930s and early 1940s in
Cuba, particularly in Havana. It evolved from the fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms, Latin
dance forms, and American jazz.

In the 1940s and 1950s, the Cuban bandleader and composer Pérez Prado
popularized the Mambo with his energetic and innovative arrangements. The Mambo
craze swept through Latin America and the United States, becoming a sensation in
nightclubs and dance halls. Mambo gained significant popularity in the United States
during the post-WWII era. It became a central part of the Latin dance scene in cities
like New York. It was standardized as one of the Latin American dances in
international competitive ballroom dance, alongside dances like the Cha-Cha, Rumba,
Samba, and Jive.

Here's a brief guide on how to perform the Mambo ballroom dance


(https://blog.dancevision.com/how-to-dance-mambo):

As a follower: As a leader:

1. Start with your weight on 1. Break forward on count two


your left foot with your right with the left foot.
foot free. 2. Replace weight back to the
2. On count two, begin to right foot on count three.
dance a "break step" 3. Close left foot to right foot
backwards (simply step on count four (hold one).
your right foot back)
4. On count two, begin to
3. On count three, rocking dance a break step
weight forward to left foot, backwards (right foot back).
replace weight to right foot,
5. On count three, rocking
holding count one.
weight forward to left foot,
4. Repeat the same thing going replace weight to right foot,
forward. Break (step) holding count one.
forward on count two with
the left foot.
5. Replace weight back to the
right foot on count three.
6. Close left foot to right foot
on count four (hold one).
PASO DOBLE

The Paso Doble is a dramatic and passionate ballroom dance with Spanish origins.
Paso Doble originated in Spain, particularly in the southern regions like Andalusia,
known for its rich flamenco and bullfighting traditions. The dance is inspired by the
movements and interactions between a matador (bullfighter) and the cape-wielding
bull.

Paso Doble was introduced to the ballroom dance scene in the early 20th century,
particularly in France and Spain. The dance is characterized by its stately and
dramatic posture, strong footwork, and precise movements. It emphasizes control,
passion, and expression. The music for Paso Doble is typically in 2/4 time, with a
powerful and majestic feel. It often features dramatic orchestrations resembling the
sounds of a bullfight.

The dance evolved in ballroom competitions, with choreographers adding elements


to enhance the performance, while still retaining its core essence of bullfighting
drama. Paso Doble became one of the five Latin American dances in international
competitive ballroom dance, alongside the Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, and Jive.

Here's a brief guide on how to perform the Paso Doble ballroom dance
(https://blog.dancevision.com/how-to-dance-paso-doble):

Leader Follower

1. Right foot steps in place. 1. Left foot steps in place.

2. Left foot walks forward. 2. Step back on the right foot.

3. Right foot closes to left foot. 3. Step back on the left foot.

4. Step in place left, right, left, right, 4. Right foot closes to left foot.
left.
5. 4 small walks forward - left, right,
5. Repeat again. left, right.

5. Repeat again.

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