1. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers: The American Classic
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers: The American Classic
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ iconic ballroom dance choreography is a classic that has been enjoyed for decades. The pair are known for their smooth, graceful and romantic style of dancing, and their routines have been performed in the UK for many years.
Their most famous dance is the ‘Cheek to Cheek’ routine from the 1935 film ‘Top Hat’. This routine is a classic example of the American style of ballroom dancing, and features intricate footwork and graceful lifts. The routine has been recreated many times in the UK, and is still a popular choice for couples taking ballroom classes.
Other Famous Routines
Astaire and Rogers also starred in the 1937 film ‘Shall We Dance’, which featured the ‘Waltz in Swing Time’ routine. This routine was a classic example of the Viennese Waltz, and featured a mixture of graceful turns and intricate footwork.
The pair also performed the ‘Let’s Face the Music and Dance’ routine in the 1936 film ‘Follow the Fleet’. This routine was a classic example of the Foxtrot, and featured intricate footwork and graceful lifts.
Legacy
The legacy of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers is still felt in the UK today. Their iconic routines are still performed in ballroom classes, and have been recreated in many stage and film productions. Their routines have been an inspiration to many couples, and will continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.
2. Strictly Come Dancing: The National Phenomenon
2. Strictly Come Dancing: The National Phenomenon
Strictly Come Dancing is one of the UK’s most popular and iconic TV shows, and its influence on the nation’s ballroom dance culture cannot be understated. The show, which first aired in 2004, sees a host of celebrities paired with professional dancers to compete in a series of ballroom and Latin dances.
A National Obsession
Since its debut, Strictly Come Dancing has become a national obsession, with viewers tuning in each week to watch the sequin-clad celebrities and their professional partners battle it out on the dance floor. The show has also spawned a number of spin-off series, including Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two and Strictly Come Dancing: The Professionals, as well as a number of live arena tours.
A Global Influence
The show’s popularity has seen it exported to over 40 countries worldwide, with versions airing in Australia, the United States, India, China and Russia. The show has also had an impact on the wider ballroom culture, with a number of professional dancers, choreographers and judges from the show going on to become international stars.
A Legacy of Choreography
Throughout its 15-year history, Strictly Come Dancing has showcased some of the most iconic ballroom dance choreographies in the UK. From the classic Foxtrot to the energetic Jive, the show has provided a platform for some of the most innovative and exciting dances of the modern era.
3. The Ballroom Blitz: A 1930s Jazz Era Classic
The Ballroom Blitz: A 1930s Jazz Era Classic
The Ballroom Blitz was a classic dance choreography from the 1930s jazz era. It was created by the renowned British choreographer, Fred Astaire. The dance was popularised in the film version of the song, ‘The Ballroom Blitz’ by the British rock band, The Sweet.
The Ballroom Blitz is a classic ballroom dance, and is often performed as a show dance. It is a fast-paced, energetic routine, featuring intricate footwork and intricate partnering. The choreography includes a variety of steps, including the waltz, the fox-trot, the cha-cha, and the Charleston.
The Ballroom Blitz: A Show Stopper
The Ballroom Blitz is a show stopper, and it is often performed as a show dance in competitions. It is a great way to show off your skill and style, and is a popular choice for couples who are looking to impress the judges.
The Ballroom Blitz is a great way to showcase your skill and flair. It is a great way to show off your technical ability, as well as your creativity and musicality. It is also a great way to show off your partnering skills, as the routine requires you to move in sync with your partner.
The Ballroom Blitz: A Classic Choreography
The Ballroom Blitz is a classic choreography, and is a popular choice for many ballroom dancers. It is a great way to show off your skill and style, and is a great way to show off your technical ability. It is also a great way to show off your partnering skills, as the routine requires you to move in sync with your partner.
The Ballroom Blitz is a classic choreography that has been performed and enjoyed by ballroom dancers for decades. It is a great way to show off your skill and style, and is a popular choice for couples who are looking to impress the judges.
4. The Tango: A Classic Latin Dance
The Tango: A Classic Latin Dance
The Tango is a passionate and dynamic Latin dance which has been popular in the UK since the late 19th century. It is a partner dance that originated in Argentina and Uruguay, and has been embraced by the British public for its intricate footwork and dramatic movements.
The Tango is one of the most popular dances in the UK, and is regularly performed in ballroom competitions and social events. It is a dance that is full of emotion and energy, and is often seen as a showstopper.
The Basic Steps
The Tango is a complex dance which requires a lot of practice and skill. The basic steps involve a slow walk forward and back, with the leader and follower alternating their steps. The leader will then move the follower into a side step, then back into a slow walk.
The steps then become more intricate, with the leader and follower performing a series of turns and steps. The dance is then finished with a dramatic dip, where the leader lowers the follower to the ground.
The Music
The Tango is traditionally danced to a combination of orchestral and piano music. Popular pieces include ‘Por Una Cabeza’ by Carlos Gardel and ‘La Cumparsita’ by Matos Rodriguez.
The Costumes
The costumes for the Tango are usually quite simple, with the men wearing black trousers and a white shirt, and the women wearing a long skirt and a blouse. However, in more modern performances, dancers often wear more elaborate and colourful costumes.
5. The Foxtrot: A Timeless Ballroom Dance
The Foxtrot: A Timeless Ballroom Dance
The Foxtrot is one of the most popular and iconic ballroom dances in the UK. It is characterised by a slow, graceful walk, and a flowing, gentle rhythm. The Foxtrot originated in the early 20th century, and has since become a classic and beloved dance for couples around the world.
The Foxtrot’s Origins
The Foxtrot was created by the American dancer Harry Fox in 1914. He was inspired by the music of ragtime and jazz, and created a dance that was easy to learn and fun to do. The Foxtrot quickly gained popularity in the UK and soon became a staple of the ballroom dance scene.
The Foxtrot’s Characteristics
The Foxtrot is a smooth, elegant dance that is often danced to slower, more romantic music. The dance is characterised by a slow, graceful walk, and a flowing, gentle rhythm. The Foxtrot is a great choice for couples looking for a romantic and classic ballroom dance.
The Foxtrot in the UK
The Foxtrot is a popular choice for couples in the UK, and is often seen in ballroom competitions. The dance is often performed to classic songs from the 1920s and 1930s, such as ‘Cheek to Cheek’ and ‘The Way You Look Tonight’. The Foxtrot is also a popular choice for wedding couples, and is often used as a first dance.
Learning the Foxtrot
The Foxtrot is a great dance for beginners, as it is relatively easy to learn. It is important to take lessons from a qualified dance instructor, as proper technique is essential for a successful Foxtrot.
The Foxtrot Today
The Foxtrot is still a popular and beloved ballroom dance in the UK. It is a timeless classic that is sure to be enjoyed for many years to come.
6. The Quickstep: An Uptempo Dance
The Quickstep: An Uptempo Dance
The Quickstep is an up-tempo ballroom dance that originated in the 1920s. It is a combination of Foxtrot and Charleston steps, and is known for its speed and energy. It is one of the most popular dances in the UK, and is a great way to get the party started!
The Quickstep’s Origin
The Quickstep originated in the 1920s in the United States, and was originally known as the ‘Quick Time Foxtrot’. It was created by combining Foxtrot and Charleston steps, and has since become one of the most popular ballroom dances in the UK.
The Quickstep’s Style
The Quickstep is an up-tempo dance that is characterised by its speed and energy. It is known for its sharp movements and intricate footwork, and is often performed to faster-paced music. It is a great dance for those who want to show off their skill and agility on the dance floor.
The Quickstep’s Popularity
The Quickstep is one of the most popular ballroom dances in the UK. It is often seen in competitions and shows, and is also a popular choice for social events. It is a great way to get the party started and is sure to get everyone on their feet!
Learning the Quickstep
If you are interested in learning the Quickstep, there are plenty of resources available. Many dance schools offer classes in the Quickstep, and there are also many online resources that can help you learn the steps. With practice and dedication, you can become a master of the Quickstep!
Conclusion
The Quickstep is an up-tempo dance that originated in the 1920s. It is a combination of Foxtrot and Charleston steps, and is known for its speed and energy. It is one of the most popular dances in the UK, and is a great way to get the party started. With practice and dedication, you can become a master of the Quickstep!
7. The Charleston: A Roaring Twenties Classic
The Charleston: A Roaring Twenties Classic
The Charleston is a lively dance from the 1920s that has become a classic of the ballroom. With its lively footwork, energetic arm movements and jazzy music, it is a dance that has stood the test of time.
History of the Charleston
The Charleston originated in the United States in the 1920s, and quickly became popular all over the world. It was introduced to Britain in the early 1930s, and soon became a hit in the ballroom. The dance was popularised by the film The Gold Diggers of 1933, and it has remained a popular dance ever since.
How to Dance the Charleston
The Charleston is a fast-paced dance that requires quick footwork and an energetic attitude. The basic step starts with the feet apart, and then stepping forward and back in a ‘scissor’ motion. The arms are moved in a swinging motion, and the head is usually tilted to one side.
Variations of the Charleston
The Charleston has many variations, from the classic version to more modern interpretations. The dance can be adapted to different tempos and styles of music, and can include elements of other dances such as the Lindy Hop and the Jive.
Where to Learn the Charleston
There are many places to learn the Charleston in the UK. There are classes in most cities, as well as online tutorials and videos. There are also events and competitions where you can show off your Charleston skills.
The Charleston in Popular Culture
The Charleston is a dance that has been featured in many films, television shows and music videos. It is also a popular dance at parties and events, and is often used as a way to get people up and dancing.
The Charleston Today
The Charleston remains a popular dance today, and is still a classic of the ballroom. It is a fun and energetic dance that is sure to get everyone up and moving. Whether you want to learn it for a special occasion or just for fun, the Charleston is sure to be a hit.
8. The Waltz: An Elegant and Classic Dance
The Waltz: An Elegant and Classic Dance
The Waltz is a classic dance that has been around since the late 18th century and is still popular to this day. It is a graceful and elegant dance that can be performed in either a slow or a fast tempo. It is a dance that is often seen at formal events such as weddings and balls.
The Waltz is a partner dance that consists of three steps. The first step is a backward step with the left foot, then a forward step with the right foot, and finally a side step with the left foot. This pattern is then repeated for the entire dance.
The Waltz in the UK
The Waltz is a popular dance in the UK and is often seen at formal events such as weddings and balls. It is also seen at competitions and is a popular choice for dance teachers and students alike.
The Waltz is a dance that is often performed to classical music such as Strauss waltzes. It is a graceful and elegant dance that is suitable for all ages and is a great way to get people of all ages involved in ballroom dancing.
Conclusion
The Waltz is a classic and elegant dance that is popular in the UK and is often seen at formal events such as weddings and balls. It is a dance that is suitable for all ages and is a great way to get people of all ages involved in ballroom dancing.
9. The Jive: A Fun and Exciting Dance
The Jive: A Fun and Exciting Dance
The Jive is a fast, energetic and exciting dance that is a firm favourite with ballroom dancers in the UK. It is a partner dance, usually danced to upbeat music in 4/4 time. The dance originated in the US in the 1940s, and is a combination of swing and jitterbug steps.
The Basic Steps
The basic steps of the Jive involve a series of kicks, chasses and turns, with the steps being danced on the spot. The first step is a rock step, followed by a kick step, and then a chasse. The steps are repeated in a continuous sequence, and the dance is usually performed in a counter-clockwise direction.
Variations and Advanced Steps
The Jive is a dance that has a wide range of variations, from simple steps to more advanced moves. Variations include the ‘Hip Twist’, ‘The Shoulder Roll’ and ‘The Split’. Advanced steps include the ‘Hip Flip’, ‘The Tango Dip’ and ‘The Underarm Turn’.
Style and Performance
The Jive is known for its high energy and is a great way to show off your style and flair. The dance is usually performed with a lot of attitude and energy, and the music should be fast and upbeat. The performance should be full of energy and the couple should be well in sync with each other.
Conclusion
The Jive is a fun and exciting dance that is sure to get any audience tapping their feet. It is a great way to show off your style and flair, and is a firm favourite with ballroom dancers in the UK. With its fast-paced steps and wide range of variations, the Jive is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
10. The Pasodoble: A Dramatic and Intense Dance
The Pasodoble: A Dramatic and Intense Dance
The Pasodoble is a Spanish-style ballroom dance that has been popular in the UK for many years. It is a passionate, energetic and dramatic dance that is often performed at competitions and exhibitions. The music is fast-paced and the steps are intricate and complex, making it a challenging and exciting dance to perform.
The dance is based on the traditional Spanish bullfighting ritual, with the man taking the role of the bullfighter and the woman playing the part of the cape. The man leads the woman around the floor, creating a dramatic and intense atmosphere. The steps are often very quick and precise, and the couple must move together in perfect unison.
The dance is usually performed to a fast-paced pasodoble song, such as “El Toro” or “La Bamba”. The steps are usually performed in a circular motion, with the man leading the woman in a series of turns and spins. The couple must move together in perfect harmony, and the man must lead the woman with confidence and strength.
Costumes
The costumes for the Pasodoble are usually bright and colourful, with the man wearing a traditional matador costume and the woman wearing a long, flowing dress. The costumes are often heavily decorated with sequins and beads, adding to the dramatic atmosphere of the dance.
Popularity
The Pasodoble is a popular ballroom dance in the UK, and is often performed at competitions and exhibitions. It is a challenging and exciting dance to perform, and it is sure to impress any audience.
