The origins of ballroom dance first appeared in 16th century Europe. Although there was an opposition initially from the general public and aristocracy because of closing hold in partners,it became popular at social gatherings and parties across Europe in 1800s.
Today, ballroom dance is danced all over the world as a social activity, as well as a competition.There are two major categories: Standard (or Smooth) such as Waltz and Tango, and Latin (or Rhythm) such as Rumba, Cha Cha and Samba. Standard has a slow and graceful pace where the two partners glide across the room widely while Latin has a much faster pace, and more lighthearted.
Ballroom dance in movies
Strictly Ballroom (1992) | Dance With Me (1998) | Shall We Dance? (1996, 2004) | Take The Lead (2006)
Impression of Ballroom Dance (by flamenco dancer)
I learned Tango which is one of the Standard.
What bothered me was when I stepped forward, my knee hit a partner's knee. Since I normally dance by myself, the close distance with a partner was something new and difficult. I was concentrating on learning the choreography, but once you get used to it, you can use the classroom widely and should be fun.
After the lesson, the teacher told me that he didn’t feel that nervous even before the competition since they always dance in a couple, which I envy very much! I was scared to death when I had to dance solo on stage at competition. Maybe it’s nice to dance in pairs once in a while for a change of mood.
