The county of Somerset in the south-west of England is well known for its rich cultural heritage, and ballroom dancing is no exception. From elegant waltzes to energetic jives, the county has a long history of ballroom dancing, with many of its traditional dances still popular today.
The most popular dances in the region include the Waltz, the Quickstep, the Foxtrot, the Cha Cha, the Rumba, the Jive, the Samba, the Paso Doble, and the Tango. These dances have been a part of Somerset life for centuries, and remain popular amongst both locals and visitors alike.
History of Ballroom Dancing in Somerset
Ballroom dancing has been popular in the area since the early 19th century, when the first ballroom was opened in the city of Bath. This ballroom was originally used for formal dances, but soon began to host more informal events, such as the popular ‘country dance’. This dance was a precursor to the modern waltz, and was very popular amongst the local population.
In the early 20th century, ballroom dancing began to become more popular in the region, with more dance halls opening up in the cities of Taunton and Wells. These venues allowed for the development of more modern dances, such as the Foxtrot and the Quickstep.
Modern Ballroom Dancing in Somerset
Today, ballroom dancing is still popular in the region, with many dance schools offering classes in the various styles. There are also a number of competitions and events held throughout the year, including the annual Somerset Ballroom Dance Championships.
The popularity of ballroom dancing in the area has also led to the development of a number of specialist dance shops, such as the Somerset Dancewear Company, which sells a range of clothing and accessories for ballroom dancers.
For those looking to take part in ballroom dancing in Somerset, there are a number of venues offering classes and events, as well as a range of competitions for all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, there’s something for everyone in the world of ballroom dancing in Somerset.
Different Styles of Ballroom Dancing in Somerset
Somerset is home to a wide variety of ballroom dancing styles, from the traditional to the modern. Here are some of the most popular styles of ballroom dancing in Somerset:
Latin
Latin is one of the most popular forms of ballroom dancing in Somerset. It includes dances such as the Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Jive, Paso Doble, and more. These dances are often performed to Latin-influenced music, and they are characterized by their fast and energetic movements.
Modern Ballroom
Modern ballroom dancing is a more contemporary form of ballroom dancing. It includes dances such as the Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, and Viennese Waltz. These dances are often performed to modern music, and they are characterized by their smooth and graceful movements.
Country-Western
Country-western is a style of ballroom dancing that is popular in Somerset. It includes dances such as the Two-Step, Line Dance, Swing, and Polka. These dances are often performed to country-western music, and they are characterized by their fun and upbeat movements.
Swing
Swing is a style of ballroom dancing that originated in the 1920s. It includes dances such as the Lindy Hop, Jitterbug, Charleston, and Balboa. These dances are often performed to swing music, and they are characterized by their lively and energetic movements.
Benefits of Ballroom Dancing in Somerset
1. Improved Health
Ballroom dancing in Somerset can provide a fun and enjoyable way to improve your overall physical health. It is an aerobic activity that helps to strengthen and tone the muscles, and can help to improve balance and coordination. It also helps to improve posture and flexibility, and can be beneficial to both mental and physical health.
2. Social Benefits
Ballroom dancing in Somerset can also be a great way to meet new people and make friends. It can be a great way to get out of the house and socialise with people who share a similar interest. It can also be a great way to learn new skills and techniques from experienced dancers.
3. Fun and Enjoyment
Finally, ballroom dancing in Somerset can be a great way to have fun and enjoy yourself. It is a fun and enjoyable activity that can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and can be a great way to express yourself and have fun.
Where to Learn Ballroom Dancing in Somerset
Somerset is a great place to learn ballroom dancing, with plenty of classes and events to choose from. Here are some of the best places to learn ballroom dancing in Somerset:
Taunton Dance Centre
Taunton Dance Centre offers a range of ballroom and Latin classes for all levels, from beginners to advanced. The classes are held in a spacious studio and are led by experienced instructors.
Somerset Dance Academy
Somerset Dance Academy offers classes in a variety of ballroom and Latin styles, from waltz and tango to jive and cha-cha. They also offer private lessons for those who want to focus on specific techniques.
Somerset Ballroom Dancing Society
The Somerset Ballroom Dancing Society organises regular social events and classes for those who want to learn ballroom dancing. They also host regular competitions, allowing dancers to show off their skills.
Somerset Dance School
The Somerset Dance School offers a range of classes in ballroom and Latin styles, from beginners to advanced. They also offer private lessons for those who want to focus on specific techniques.
How to Find a Ballroom Dance Partner in Somerset
1. Ask Around or Post on Social Media
The best place to start looking for a ballroom dance partner in Somerset is to ask around your friends and family or post on social media. You can also join local dance clubs and ask if anyone is looking for a partner.
2. Attend Dance Classes
Attending dance classes is a great way to meet potential dance partners. Most dance classes are open to all levels and you can find the right level for you. You can also ask the instructor if they know of anyone looking for a partner.
3. Check Out Local Dance Events
Local dance events are a great way to meet potential partners. Many of these events are free or have a small admission fee. You can also ask around to see if anyone is looking for a partner.
4. Look Online
There are many websites and online forums dedicated to ballroom dancing in Somerset. You can post an ad looking for a partner or browse the profiles of potential partners.
5. Join a Dance Studio
If you are serious about finding a partner, consider joining a local dance studio. Most studios offer classes for all levels and you can find a partner who is at your level. You can also ask the instructor if they know of anyone looking for a partner.
Popular Ballroom Dance Events in Somerset
Somerset Ballroom Dance Festival
The Somerset Ballroom Dance Festival is held every year in the city of Taunton. It is the biggest ballroom dance festival in the South West of England and attracts dancers from all over the country. The festival features a variety of different styles of ballroom dancing, including Latin, Standard, and Ballroom. There are also classes, workshops, and competitions for amateur and professional dancers.
Somerset Latin Dance Festival
The Somerset Latin Dance Festival is held in the city of Bath every year. It is a two-day event that celebrates the Latin dance culture in the South West of England. The festival features a variety of different styles of Latin dance, including Cha Cha, Salsa, and Merengue. There are also classes, workshops, and competitions for amateur and professional dancers.
Somerset Ballroom Dance Championships
The Somerset Ballroom Dance Championships is held in the city of Weston-super-Mare every year. It is a two-day competition that attracts the best ballroom dancers from across the country. The competition features a variety of different styles of ballroom dancing, including Latin, Standard, and Ballroom. There are also classes, workshops, and competitions for amateur and professional dancers.
Somerset Latin Dance Championships
The Somerset Latin Dance Championships is held in the city of Yeovil every year. It is a two-day competition that attracts the best Latin dancers from across the country. The competition features a variety of different styles of Latin dance, including Cha Cha, Salsa, and Merengue. There are also classes, workshops, and competitions for amateur and professional dancers.
Somerset Ballroom Dance Showcase
The Somerset Ballroom Dance Showcase is held in the city of Glastonbury every year. It is a two-day event that celebrates the ballroom dance culture in the South West of England. The showcase features a variety of different styles of ballroom dancing, including Latin, Standard, and Ballroom. There are also classes, workshops, and competitions for amateur and professional dancers.
Somerset Latin Dance Showcase
The Somerset Latin Dance Showcase is held in the city of Bridgwater every year. It is a two-day event that celebrates the Latin dance culture in the South West of England. The showcase features a variety of different styles of Latin dance, including Cha Cha, Salsa, and Merengue. There are also classes, workshops, and competitions for amateur and professional dancers.
Tips for Ballroom Dancing in Somerset
1. Choose a Dance Style
Somerset offers a wide variety of dances, from the traditional waltz to the more modern salsa. Consider which style you would like to learn and find a local teacher or studio to get started.
2. Find a Dance Partner
If you are looking to take part in competitions or just want to practice with someone else, you will need to find a dance partner. Consider joining a local dance club or asking around your friends and family to find someone who is interested in learning ballroom dancing.
3. Take Classes
Taking classes is one of the best ways to learn ballroom dancing. Look for local dance studios or classes in your area to get started. You can also find online classes or videos to help you learn at home.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
The key to mastering any dance is practice. Make sure to set aside time each week to practice your steps and moves. You can also practice with a partner or attend a practice session at a local studio.
5. Attend Competitions
Competitions are a great way to show off your skills and meet other dancers. Look for competitions in your area and start competing.
6. Join a Dance Club
Joining a dance club is a great way to meet other dancers and practice. Look for local clubs in your area and join one to start making friends and having fun.
7. Have Fun!
Remember that ballroom dancing should be fun! Don't be afraid to make mistakes and enjoy the process of learning.
Conclusion
Ballroom dancing in Somerset is a vibrant and diverse activity enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It is an ideal way to get active, make friends, and enjoy a unique and exciting cultural experience. With a wide variety of classes, studios, and events available, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, Somerset has something to offer. With a strong community of dancers and instructors, you can be sure to find a class, studio, or event that will help you to improve your skills and have a great time.
So why not give ballroom dancing in Somerset a try? You won't regret it!
References
1. Ballroom Dancing Somerset. (2020, August 10). Retrieved from https://uk-ballroom.co.uk/somerset/
2. Ballroom Dancing in Somerset. (2020, August 10). Retrieved from https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/lifestyle/somerset-ballroom-dancing-classes-events-1859312
3. Somerset Dance Academy. (2020, August 10). Retrieved from https://www.somersetdanceacademy.co.uk/
