Ballroom dancing: The fascinating history behind its origin
Known to be one of the most intricate and graceful dances, ballroom dancing has made frequent appearances in period dramas and fairy tale movies. Granted, it is not practiced as much in modern life, but its value and significance are still important to understand. Today, however, numerous ballroom dance competitions are held, and it is still taken very seriously. This dance form is a vessel which holds intriguing history, rich culture and stories from around the world. Read on to learn more about the fascinating history behind ballroom dancing.
What is ballroom dancing?
The main component of ballroom dancing is a partnership. Here, couples move rhythmically using various step patterns. It also includes transitioning from one place to another in a fixed patter. There are two main styles of this type of dance- the Smooth and the Rhythm which are also referred to as the Standard or the Latin respectively. The hallmarks of the former are fluidity of movement and grace while those of the latter are vibrant energy and flair.
Where and how did the dance form originate?
“Ballroom dancing” finds its etymological roots in Latin. Here, “ball” is derived from “ballare” which translates to “to dance.” The origins of ballroom dance have been traced all the way back to the 16th century in Europe. In one of his pieces, French writer and philosopher Michel de Montaigne narrated his observations of a peculiar dance that we had witnessed in Germany. He described it by saying that the dancers moved slowly and were so close to each other that their faces almost touched. Back then, such dancing was reserved only for the elites and the privileged nobles, while commoners and those belonging to lower classes of society were left with folk dance.
How did ballroom dance become popular?
This dance started gaining a lot of popularity in France during the 1600s under Louis X1V’s reign. In the 17th century, he even went on to establish the Académie Royale de Musique et de Danse through which he established his own rules for the dance which merged techniques of ballet as well. Gradually, it crossed the English Channel and started becoming extremely popular in England during the 19th century- especially in the form of waltz. This is a version of ballroom dance which incorporates revolving, gliding partnered movements on the dance floor.