Q3 PE9 LESSON 1 THE BALLROOM DANCE

Expected Outcomes:
- Describe the nature and background of ballroom dancing.
- Execute the skills involved in the dance.

Historical Context:
- Originally performed during social gatherings.
- Today, it serves both recreational and competitive purposes.
- Represents a combination of various cultures through time leading to its unique forms.

19th Century Balls:
- Formal social events known as “balls” were primarily for dancing.
- Dances were held in large venues termed “ballrooms”.
- The definition of “ballroom dance” directly relates to dances performed in these ballrooms.
- Specific dance types were prevalent during these events.

18th Century Influences:
- In France and England, the Minuet was popular, characterized by lively movements set in a 3/4 time signature.
19th Century Trends:
- The Waltz and Polka gained immense popularity during this era.

Description:
- Also known as European, modern, or modern ballroom dance.
- Standardized in Europe and spread worldwide; involves a formal closed hold position between partners.

Waltz:
- Originates from a German term "walzen", meaning "to turn or glide".
- Uses a 2/4 time signature, accenting the first beat; progressively performed.
- Emerged in Vienna and alpine Austria.
Tango:
- Developed in Buenos Aires, Argentina as a sensual dance initially for women before evolving into partner dancing.
- Experienced societal persecution until its rise in popularity (1910-1915) in Europe.
- Known for dramatic, passionate steps and posed pauses; performed in 2/4 time signature.
Foxtrot:
- Created by actor Harry Fox in 1914, often danced to vocal big band music.
- Features long, continuous movements with a 4/4 time signature; highlights elegance and synchronicity.
Quickstep:
- Originated from the foxtrot but is a faster-paced variation.
- Developed in New York suburbs during WWI; characterized by energetic jumps and kicks in 4/4 time signature.
Viennese Waltz:
- Known as Wiener Walzer; first ballroom dance featuring close hold position.
- The dance is rotary, utilizing chain steps and continuous clockwise/counterclockwise turns.

Characteristics:
- Originated in Latin America, focused on expressiveness, energy, and sensuality in partner movements.
- Employ quick-paced rhythms and playful movements.

Cha-Cha:
- Originated from Cuba, inspired by a slower mambo called “triple mambo”.
- First introduced in Britain in 1952 and the U.S. in 1954; uses a 4/4 time signature.
- Characteristics include still shoulders, flat-footed steps, and unique weight distribution.
Samba:
- Originated in Brazil in the 19th century, the word derives from Angolan “semba” meaning “invitation to dance”.
- Danced in 2/4 time signature, known for its lively, syncopated rhythms.
Rumba:
- Name comes from “rumbear” meaning to party and dance.
- Influenced by African music, evolved in Cuba post-African slave arrival in the 16th century.
- Variants include Cuban son, danzon, and bolero, utilizing a 4/4 time signature.
Paso Doble:
- Represents Spanish bullfighting, depicting the male as the matador and the female as the cape.
- Name translates to "double step" and is characterized by arrogance and pride.
- Utilizes a 2/4 time signature.
Jive:
- Influenced by various dance styles including boogie and rock and roll.
- Emerged in the 1930s, featuring lively steps with a 2/4 time signature.

Ballroom dancing encapsulates historical evolution and cultural diversity, from social gatherings to competitive formats, featuring various styles that enrich the art of dance.