Dance is an art form that generally refers to movement of the body, usually rhythmic and to music, [1]

used as a form of expression, social interaction or presented in a spiritual or performance setting.

Origins and history of dance

Dance does not leave behind clearly identifiable physical artifacts such as stone tools, hunting
implements or cave paintings. It is not possible to say when dance became part of human culture.
Dance has certainly been an important part of ceremony, rituals, celebrations and entertainment
since before the birth of the earliest human civilizations. Archeology delivers traces of dance
from prehistoric times such as the 9,000 year old Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka paintings in India
and Egyptian tomb paintings depicting dancing figures from circa 3300 BC.

One of the earliest structured uses of dances may have been in the performance and in the telling
of myths. It was also sometimes used to show feelings for one of the opposite gender. It is also
linked to the origin of "love making." Before the production of written languages, dance was one
of the methods of passing these stories down from generation to generation.[2]

Another early use of dance may have been as a precursor to ecstatic trance states in healing
rituals. Dance is still used for this purpose by many cultures from the Brazilian rainforest to the
Kalahari Desert.[3]

Sri Lankan dances goes back to the mythological times of aboriginal yingyang twins and
"yakkas" (devils). According to a Sinhalese legend, Kandyan dances originate, 250 years ago,
from a magic ritual that broke the spell on a bewitched king. Many contemporary dance forms
can be traced back to historical, traditional, ceremonial, and ethnic dance.

Basis for Dance

Dance has existed since the beginning of humankind. Before verbal or written communication
existed, humans used movement to communicate and to help them comprehend, shape, and make
meaning of their world. Moving rhythmically is innate. Because movement as a form of self-
expression is intrinsic to our existence as human beings, dance is included as part of a
comprehensive education. Young children revel in their own ability to move. Dance is a natural
vehicle that children use to help them understand themselves and the world in which they live.

Types of Dances and Different Dancing Styles:

Ballroom Dance:
The Ballroom dance is one of the most entertaining and elite styles of dancing. In the earlier days,
Ballroom dance was only for the privileged class of people. This style of partner dance originated in
Germany but is popular all over the world. Today, the popularity of Ballroom dance has spread to many
corners! This dance includes many other dance styles. There are many dance techniques that have been
developed especially in America. The International Standard recognizes around 10 styles that belong to
the category of Ballroom dance where as the American style has few forms that are different from those
included under the International Standard.

Different Styles that belong to International Standard:

Tango: It definitely does take two to tango and this dance also belongs to the American Style category.
Like all Ballroom dancers, the male has to give the lead to the female. The various moves used all make
the dance look even more beautiful to the onlooker. This International Standard varies from the
American Style in terms of movement.

Waltz: The Waltz is danced to slow beats and is an equally beautiful dance form. The Waltz dance is one
of the slow and most attractive and rhythmic styles ever. When danced by the International Standard
norms, this dance is performed more closely towards each other as compared to the American Style.

Foxtrot: Foxtrot, as a dance style, gives a dancer flexibility to combine the slow and fast movements
together. This social dance was named after the actor Harry Fox.

Viennese Waltz: This style of Ballroom dance is based on the original form of the Waltz dance. There are
many versions of this style of dance. This dance originated in the latter period of the 18th century.

Quickstep: This style belongs to the International Style of Ballroom dancing which originated in the
1920’s. This dance includes many steps with quick momentum.

Cha-Cha-Cha: The Cha-cha-cha simply called the cha-cha is a type of Latin American dance which is very
rhythmic in its appeal. This dance is energetic with slow movements as well.

Rumba: This sensual dance is based on slow hip movement. Rumba belongs to the International
Standard as well as the American style. This dance is known for the beauty of the steps that are co-
ordinated on a slow rhythm.

Samba: This beautiful and energetic dance also has many forms. The steps may differ in Samba that is
danced as per the Ballroom style and the traditional style Samba.

Jive: This is yet another lively form of Ballroom dance. This dance is also amongst the five dances that
belong to the Latin American dance styles.

Paso Doble: This lively dance is also an International Latin dance style with less emphasis on the hip
movement. The basic structure of this Latin dance is based on the sounds and the movements used in
Spanish bullfights.
Different Types of Dances that belong to American Style:
Bolero: This type of dance style is basically slow and has originated in Spain. It can be danced solely or as
even as a couple.

Mambo: Mambo is a Latin dance that makes the use of many steps which are considered complex in
origin. Mambo is also known as the base of Salsa dance.

East Coast Swing: This type of partner dance is based on the Lindy Hop. East Coast Swing dance consists
of many simple steps that follow the basics of Lindy Hop.

The Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Rumba and Viennese Waltz also belong to the American Style of
dances.

Other Styles of Ballroom Dances:

Salsa: Salsa has it’s base in areas of Cuba and Puerto Rico and Latin America. This partner dance is a very
sensual form that is known for the flirtatious and lively steps. While dancing the salsa, the couples can
even perform on one spot without traveling all over the floor. The dance steps of this very beautiful
dance show many influences from other dances such as the Mambo, Changui, Palo, Rumba etc. There
are many other various forms of the Salsa such as the Cuban style, New York style, Colombian style and
the Los Angeles style.

Merengue: This type of dance requires the partners to be together in a close position. The steps are
often in circular movements or away from each other in a sideway fashion. There are many intricate
steps to this dance. The various handholds are an indication of the same.

Bachata: This is a romantic style of dance that finds its origins in the Dominican Republic. The Bachata is
on the similar lines of the Merengue.

Lambada: Sexy and stylish, Lambada is a Brazilian dance that is performed in partners or even groups.
This dance was particularly in the limelight because of the famous track ‘Lambada’ by a music group,
‘Kaoma’.

Polka: This is a style of dance that also refers to a type of music. The Polka is a fast dance, which is also
present in various styles.

Hustle: The Hustle is performed as a Ballroom dance and is very popular in the nightclubs as well. The
Hustle was particularly popular due to the movie, ‘Saturday Night Fever’ where one could notice two
types of this dance form.

Swing Dance: The Swing dance style originated in the 1920s – 1930s. There are many versions of the
Swing dance such as the Lindy Hop, Jitterbug, Boogie Woogie, West Coast Swing, Rock and Roll etc. Rock
‘n’ Roll is a very sporty form of dance that is extremely popular as well. Boogie Woogie is another dance
style that is seen mainly in Europe. This dance is also seen in competitions.

Ballet Dance:
The Ballet dance is a very beautiful form of dance with a formal look. This dance was developed in
France and Russia. There are many ballet schools around the world that teach all about the various
technical terminologies in relation to classical ballet. The classical Ballet is the most formal style of
ballet. Apart from this, there is the Neoclassical ballet and Contemporary Ballet.

Breakdance:
Michael Jackson popularized Breakdance to a huge extent. Breakdance is actually a form of street dance
that was a part of the hip-hop culture. The many movies based on Breakdance have also been an
indication of its popularity. Breakdance is relatively a male dominated type of dance style. This type of
dance is characterized with the typical ‘battles’ between groups. The ‘Downrock’ and the ‘Freeze’ are
some of the typical forms of Breakdance. The various clothing styles used while performing Breakdance
is a distinctive part of this form of dance.

Hip Hop Dance:

This style is actually a street dance style and is a combination of dance moves combined with loads of
attitude as well as colorful dancewear. In the early days, this style was generally seen in breaking and
from there on, one could witness many innovations in this dance style. There are various other styles
used with hip-hop dance, which includes popping and locking. The hip-hop outfits have to be selected
with care, which helps to add to the overall appeal of the dance form.

Step Dance:
This category includes dances that make use of footwork. These types of dances generally require one to
have a rigid stance with more movement of the feet. Step dances are basically social dances. A good
example of this dance would be the Irish dance.

Tap Dance:
Tap dance is an extremely popular form of dance. Here the emphasis is on the movements of the feet
and steps that create a tapping sound. This dance finds its origins in the United States. The tapping
sound is due to the presence of metal plates on the soles of the shoes.

Flamenco Dance:
The Flamenco dance and music is very much a major part of the culture of Spain. The beautiful songs
play a major role for this type of dance style. This beautiful style is also particularly noticeable due to the
gorgeous costumes. The music always includes the Flamenco guitar.

Fandango:
This dance style is one of the main dances in Portugal. It involves the tapping of the feet and quick
changes of the position. This is a folk dance, which has its origins in Southern Spain. However, there are
many theories about the origins of the same.
Jazz Dance:
Jazz dance finds its origins in the African American culture. From the olden days till date, there are many
influences that have added a variety to this dance form. One can see many overlapping of steps in Jazz
dance, which are similar to various other styles. The common steps in Jazz dance are the ball change, the
pivot step, the toe rise, the pirouettes, Jazz walk etc. Jazz dance is basically an energetic form that is
equally graceful like other dances. This type of dance can also incorporate various styles.

Folk Dance:
Folk dances are always performed in groups at social events. This does not mean the dancers need to be
professionally trained. A folk dance can be attempted by all types of common folk. Every country and
region has its own unique style of folk dance. There are various forms of folk dances one can see all over
the world. From the energetic Indian folk dances to the Scottish Country dances, folk dances have their
own beauty and charm.

Modern Dance:
Modern dance involves the use of many dance steps that are unusual and often interpret a dancers
emotions and moods. The dancer in this case typically performs on bare feet. In Modern dance, it’s not
only the choreography that speaks about the emotions to be conveyed. The lighting, costumes and
props are used with great creativity to create interesting and unusual dance sequences.

Country/Western Dances:
These types of dances are performed on country music. These social dances follow the typical pattern
where the male leads in the dance and the partner follows. Therefore, this dance style includes both,
the partner as well as the group dances. The country/western dances, which are partner based, include
the Two Step, Waltz, Polka, Cotton Eyed Joe etc. The group dances include the Line dance, the Square
dance, traditional Square dance, modern Western square dance etc.

Contra Dance:
This dance is a form of folk dancing. Here, the couples have to dance in two lines. These couples also
have to face each other. There are various sequences, which couples need to perform. This social dance
is a very fun form and also very easy to learn.

Belly Dance:
There are many theories about the origins of this form of dance. Some say this dance originated in
ancient Upper Egypt were as few say its basics were developed in Uzbekistan and then were passed on
to India. Belly dance is more particularly danced in nightclubs and is now also emerging as a new way to
remain fit, especially for the ladies! The basic steps involve the use of circular movements by the hips
with a shimmy for the shoulders. Belly dancing would require one to be really flexible. The costumes are
rather bold for the ladies. This is often combined with face veils and hip belts.

Traditional Indian Dances:

India is a land of great mix of cultures, which witnessed in the wide variety of dances that can range
from folk to the classical style. The Indian dances all vary as per the region it originates from and each
have a distinct style from the steps to the kind of costumes worn. Besides, these dances also represent a
particular culture. The steps are based around a strict style that is followed by all the students.
Improvisations come in later. The dance also makes the use of ‘Natya’ or acting to portray the story
being told. Many of the dances are based on religious mythologies.

Kathak:
Kathak is characterized with the fast footwork and the many numerous ‘chakkars’ or spins used in the
compositions. This dance originated from the Northern part of India. The name is actually a Sanskrit
word which means katha-to tell a story. Kathak, like all other traditional dances of India follow the
pattern where the Guru passes on the knowledge to the student, also known as the ‘shishya’. Kathak is
also performed in various styles or Gharanas, such as the Lucknow Gharana, Jaipur Gharana, Rajgarh
Gharana and the Banaras Gharana. Today, with the popularity of fusion, Kathak is used in combination
with modern steps to create a fine blend of beautiful compositions!

Kathakali:
The main feature about Kathakali is the striking costumes and makeup. This is a form of dance drama
that originated in the Southern state of Kerela. The make up used is one of the most interesting features
of this dance. This is an elaborate procedure, which is combined with a large headgear.

Mohiniattam:
This dance has its origins in Kerela. A very graceful dance, the performance in this case is generally solo
and mainly by women. This type of dance includes very rhythmic movements with elaborate mudras.
Mudras are hand gestures used to express a particular meaning.

Bharatnatyam:
One of the popular dances in India along with Kathak, Bharatnatyam dance has its origins in Tamil Nadu.
This dance uses the base of story telling combined with pure dance movements. The dance is also
distinctive due to the particular styles of dressing and make up. The origins of this dance go back to the
Natya Shastra. In the ancient days, this dance was performed only by the Devdasis. However, in the
recent times, this dance is not only popular in India, it has traveled across the globe as well.

Odissi:
This type of classical dance is also amongst the most popular types of dances seen in India today. This
classical dance has its origins in Orissa, India and can be distinguished from other styles of Indian dance
due to the specific movements of the body. Like all other forms of Indian classical dance, the knowledge
is passed on from the teacher to the student (Guru to Shishya).

Kuchipudi:
This classical Indian dance has its roots in Andhra Pradesh. Danced on the accompaniment of Carnatic
music, this dance is also gaining popularity outside India. The style may be a little similar to
Bharatnatyam, however, there are many unique steps that belong purely to this dance.

Manipuri:
Manipuri is quite different from other forms of Indian dance in terms of the costume as well as the
dance steps. The dancer uses subtle movements and the costumes are quite different in appearance.
Basically, a dancer uses many rhythmic movements that gives a very soft appearance overall. The
costume can be distinguished easily due to the stiff cylindrical skirt.

Sattriya:
This traditional style of dance originated from Assam. This style of dance was the creation of
Sankardeva. As per the records, its observed only males performed this dance style. Initially, there was a
delay in the inclusion of this style of dance as a traditional Indian dance. However, since 2000, it
received the recognition by the Sangeet Natak Academy.

Some of the Popular Folk Dances in India:

Bhangra:
A very lively dance, the Bhangra has its origins in Punjab. The energetic movements, particularly of the
men, accompanied by the beating of the drums are a sight to behold! The costumes are colorful and add
to the liveliness of the atmosphere. Bhangra music and dance is now incorporated even in pop music
and has spread to many areas around the world.

Lavani:
This folk dance is very popular and was first seen during the Peshwa rule. This dance is accompanied by
typical music where the lead dancer is accompanied by a group of other dancers in the background. This
dance has its origins in Maharashtra.

Garba:
This Indian dance is often compared to the social dances that are seen in the West. Garba is danced in a
circular format amongst groups and has its origins in Gujarat. Like any other Indian classical dance, this
dance is performed also for religious purposes. In the modern times, Garba also sees influences from
Raas- another traditional dance. The Dandiya Raas is very popular and is performed with sticks.

Dekhni:
Dekhni is one of the popular folk dances of Goa. This dance has an interesting combination of Western
as well as Indian music and is always centered on a girl. The theme is based on a girl who wants to cross
the river and needs to persuade the boatman to help her cross the same. The other dancers carry small
lit clay lamps.

Bollywood Dance:
The Indian film industry Bollywood is known for its inclusion of the song and dance routine in all the
movies. Form the olden days till date; there has been a massive change in the styles that are presented.
The dances in the olden days were subtle and often incorporated folk dances as well. However, in the
recent times, women especially have been given a bold look and there is the inclusion of discotheque
sequences and steps that are very typical of Bollywood. The craze for this song and dance routine is such
that there are special shows designed for the fans abroad so that they can get a glimpse of their favorite
stars grooving to all hit numbers!

This was a glimpse of all the types of dances and different dancing styles that are performed all across
the world. It’s interesting to note the different variations and styles and to a dancer, the limits are
endless! Dance is all about finding a form of expression and enjoying to the fullest. Dance thus help
people to cross barriers without worrying about language or cultures!

THE ELEMENTS OF DANCE/FUNDAMENTALS

OF MOVEMENT
by Morwenna Assaf, Director
 Based on works by Robert Cohan "The Dance Workshop"

When you start dancing, it is important to recognize the tools a dancer needs. There are eight (8)
elements in dance that are most vital. As you progress your understanding will change as you discover
what they mean to your body. The total sum of these elements is what is meant by technique.

CENTERING:

This is fundamental to your ability to dance well. This is maintaining a sense of your own body center that
holds you together as you move. It allows you to move gracefully and freely. This means you have to
have the ability to move, to hold, to organize yourself around your own physical body. If you are centered
you can eventually learn how to do anything. If you are not centered you may develop beautiful looking
arms and legs but never be able to move well. Liken your center to home. If you don’t have a sense of
home you will probably get lost every time you go [Link] body needs to be balanced like a see-saw.
Position fluctuates between individuals. Center for Middle Eastern Dance is in the solar plexus. Every
movement has to go through center. This is what makes it Orientale or eastern. Your natural base is
approximately just below the navel but the movements for this dance form come from the solar plexus.
Everything emanates from there. Start by feeling how your arms and legs work from the same central
point in the back. Moving from your center will make movements easier to control.

GRAVITY:

This is the force that holds you to the earth. It is a force you have to work with because it constantly
inhibits movement. Try to become aware of the pulls in your own body. What points are taking the most
weight? When you push on these points can you feel a rise up from them? You should be holding
yourself better. When you dance you want to feel as if someone is pushing you under your buttocks and
the base of your spine and directing the energy up through your breastbone.

BALANCE:

Balance is concerned with more than balancing on one leg. Your aim is to achieve and constantly
maintain an inner balance of the whole body. It is tension of mutual support among all parts that brings
the whole together in a new way. It is an inner relationship between all the points of your body which you
hold in your awareness. It is not something you do once in awhile. It is constant. A sense of balance
whether you are moving or standing. In the actual act of balancing, if you can find inner balance , you are
nearly there. If you are aware internally the need for the sensation of balance, you should be able to get
it. * Remember, balancing in both states is an active state.

POSTURE:

To achieve this element you need to change your perception of your body, there is often a wide
discrepancy between what feels right and what looks right. Dancers work all their dance live on their
posture, also called alignment. It is the key to balance and movement. Your posture not only reveals your
feelings but can also reveal feelings in you. Learn how to stand properly. You will actually feel brighter
and more aware.

GESTURE:

Gesture involves using the body as an expressive instrument to communicate feelings and ideas in
patterns of movement. With subtle gestures and postural attitudes we show cooperation, give confidence
to friends or display aggression to enemies. Arms crossed over chest are a protective wall. Hands on
hips mean "show me", fists on hips is even more challenging. Anger patterns are depicted very differently
form joy or sadness. Weight on one hip -waiting. Hands out in front you ready to give or receive. Raising
shoulders is a gesture of not knowing or caring. Shoulders forward expresses pain. Tapping foot
boredom. Observe! Recognize what the body is saying.

RHYTHM:

Finding rhythm is largely a matter of paying attention. It is something everybody has, though, some
people are not as aware or sensitive to it. Our hearts beat to a rhythm, our lungs breathe to another.
Rhythm is essential for a dancer. Pay attention! Generally the beat is carried by the drum. Make sure you
are right on the beat, not slightly late. All the work going into making a beat has already been completed
by the time you hear it. In fact to get it right, you have to anticipate the beat slightly. Feel as if you are
making the beat with your body as well as hearing it. Try to be at one with it, rather than dancing to it. It is
the rhythm and the beat of the dance that form the "threads" which allow you to memorize the structure of
the dance.

MOVING in SPACE:

You need to be as aware of the space around you as a cat. You have to move with care and awareness,
gauging the space. Space is not just empty air but a tangible element that you move through. Consider
the space an area you must go through. Consciously go through space. Feel your accomplishment as a
journey through space. You will express thoughts and emotions. Actually press your feelings out through
your torso and limbs in such a way as to show other people how we are feeling and to satisfy our desire
of movement. Our muscles feel better when they are used, and once we get used to moving them, the
whole body will respond by working in harmony with itself; to dance.

BREATHING:

Breathing is crucial to dance. Not only does it bring oxygen to the body but it also gives your movements
fluency and harmony. It is an expressive tool. Calm slow breathing suggests a certain degree of self-
control. Denotes a specific quality of movement. A movement with breath has a controlled and
considered extension of time, a clear beginning and end no matter how fast or slow the phrase. A phrase
without breath looks stiff and mechanical. It is important to learn how to do two or three things at the
same time. You frequently have to divide your attention while dancing. You must learn to breathe deeply
expanding your ribs at the back of the body rather than from the front. This will also give a more
emotional, organic look.

Here then are the elements of dance which make up the word TECHNIQUE.
A dirty word in a lot of circles. This is the sum total of the tools of DANCE.

So Why Do People Dance?....

It's definitely therapeutic! People have been dancing since the beginning of time.

They dance when they are happy and they dance when they are sad. They dance because the
sound of music gives them an unspoken command to get up and move.

It just makes them feel better, and that's what counts!

I think the main purpose of dancing is expressing yourself, trying to make what you feel a visible an
tangible thing, have fun, enjoy.
Dancing originated from praising rituals so it involves joy and thankfulness.
Now it's an art, and one of the most beautiful types of it.