Types of Dance

• Traditional Dance includes:

  • Folk Dance: developed by the people of a certain region
  • Ethnic Dance: indigenous dance from a certain race or country
• Modern and Contemporary Dance:

  • Modern Dance: developed in the early 1900s as a response to classical ballet, focuses on self-expression and individual creativity, allows for creating steps based on moods and emotions
  • Contemporary Dance: may include ballet and modern dance techniques, emphasizes creating new techniques and movements
• Ballroom Dance:

  • Set of partner dances enjoyed socially and competitively worldwide
  • Derived from the Latin word "ballare" meaning 'to dance'
  • Features popular historical dances like the Minuet, Quadrille, Polonaise, Polka, Mazurka
• Cheer Dance:

  • Organized sports activity combining dance, gymnastics, and stunt elements to cheer on teams
  • Performers are called "cheerleaders"
  • Originated in Britain, spread to the United States, and popular in Europe, Central America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Asia
• Hip-Hop and Street Dance:

  • Hip Hop dance originated in 1970’s New York, energetic, expressive, improvisational, and social
  • Includes locking, popping, breaking, house, and crumping
  • Street Dance evolved from Hip Hop, originated on streets and clubs, incorporates Jazz, Contemporary, and more
• Festival Dance:

  • Organized event celebrating dance performance
  • Dance festivals may include competitions for individuals or teams, or focus on showcasing talented regional, national, or international dance companies