Introduction to Ballroom Dancing Taunton

Taunton, a historic town in the south-west of England, is home to a thriving ballroom dance scene. With a rich history of dance styles, from traditional English country dances to the latest Latin and Ballroom styles, Taunton is the perfect place to learn and practice ballroom dancing. The Taunton Ballroom Dance Association (TBDA) was founded in 2002 and is the leading organisation in the area for ballroom dance. The TBDA organises regular events and classes for both beginners and experienced dancers, and provides a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and learn something new.

Types of Ballroom Dancing in Taunton

Taunton is home to a variety of different ballroom dance styles, from traditional English country dances to the latest Latin and Ballroom styles. English Country Dances are a traditional form of dance that has been around for centuries. These dances are usually performed in a circle or line formation, and involve a variety of steps and figures. Latin and Ballroom dances are more modern forms of dance and are usually performed with a partner. Popular Latin dances include the Cha-Cha, Samba, and Rumba, while popular Ballroom dances include the Waltz, Foxtrot, and Tango.

Learning Ballroom Dancing in Taunton

The TBDA offers a range of classes and events for both beginners and experienced dancers. Beginner classes are designed to teach the basics of ballroom dancing, while more advanced classes focus on developing technique and learning new steps. For those looking to take their dancing to the next level, the TBDA also offers events such as competitions and social dances. These events are a great way to meet other dancers and show off your skills!

History of Ballroom Dancing in Taunton

Taunton has a long and rich history of ballroom dancing that dates back to the late 19th century. During this time, the city was a popular destination for touring dance troupes and performances. The first recorded ballroom dance event in Taunton was in 1885, when a group of dancers from London performed at the local theatre. In the early 1900s, the popularity of ballroom dancing in Taunton began to grow, with local dance studios and classes popping up. The city was home to a number of famous ballroom dancers, including the renowned Fred Astaire, who performed in Taunton in 1921. By the mid-20th century, ballroom dancing had become a popular pastime in the city, with many local clubs and dance schools offering classes and events. During this period, Taunton was also home to a number of prestigious dance competitions, including the Taunton Open Dance Championships, which ran from 1954 to 1975.

Modern Ballroom Dancing in Taunton

Today, ballroom dancing remains popular in Taunton, with a number of local dance schools offering classes and events. The city is also home to a number of competitive ballroom dancing teams, such as the Taunton Ballroom Dance Company, which compete in national and international events.

Popular Ballroom Dancing Venues in Taunton

1. The Taunton Deane Ballroom

The Taunton Deane Ballroom is one of Taunton's most popular venues for ballroom dancing. Located in the heart of Taunton, the venue offers a variety of different styles of ballroom dancing, from classic waltzes to contemporary Latin dances. The venue also hosts regular social dances, allowing people to practice their moves and meet fellow dancers.

2. The Taunton Town Hall

The Taunton Town Hall is another popular venue for ballroom dancing in Taunton. The hall has a large dance floor and can accommodate up to 200 people. It hosts regular classes and social dances, as well as special events like competitions and dance shows.

3. The Taunton Dance Academy

The Taunton Dance Academy is a great place to learn ballroom dancing. The academy offers classes for all levels, from beginners to advanced, and provides a safe and friendly environment for learning. The academy also hosts regular social dances and competitions.

Local Ballroom Dancing Instructors in Taunton

Taunton Dance Academy

The Taunton Dance Academy is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn ballroom dancing in Taunton. They offer a range of classes and private lessons for all ages and abilities. From beginners to advanced dancers, they have something for everyone. They also offer group classes, as well as private lessons, and they have a number of experienced and qualified instructors.

Taunton Ballroom Dance Studio

The Taunton Ballroom Dance Studio is a great choice for anyone looking for a more personalized experience. They offer private lessons and group classes in a variety of ballroom dance styles, including Latin, Swing, and Foxtrot. They also offer a range of workshops and events, and they have a team of experienced and qualified instructors.

Taunton Dance Company

The Taunton Dance Company is a great choice for anyone looking for a more professional experience. They specialize in ballroom and Latin dance, and they offer a range of classes and private lessons for all ages and abilities. They also offer group classes and workshops, and they have a team of experienced and qualified instructors.

Taunton Dance School

The Taunton Dance School is a great choice for anyone looking for a more traditional approach to ballroom dancing. They offer a range of classes and private lessons for all ages and abilities, and they specialize in ballroom and Latin dance. They also offer group classes and workshops, and they have a team of experienced and qualified instructors.

Types of Ballroom Dancing Taught in Taunton

Waltz

The Waltz is a graceful ballroom dance that is characterized by its three-step pattern and a slow tempo. It is considered a classic ballroom dance and is still popular today. The Waltz can be danced to both traditional and modern music.

Foxtrot

The Foxtrot is a smooth, progressive dance that is characterized by its long, continuous steps. This dance originated in the early 1900s and is still popular today. It is often danced to big band music.

Tango

The Tango is a passionate, dramatic dance that is characterized by its sharp, staccato movements. It is often danced to tango music, but can also be danced to other types of music.

Viennese Waltz

The Viennese Waltz is a fast-paced version of the Waltz. It is characterized by its quick, spinning movements and is often danced to classical music.

Quickstep

The Quickstep is a lively, upbeat dance that is characterized by its quick, syncopated steps. It is often danced to jazz or swing music.

Benefits of Ballroom Dancing for Taunton Residents

Taunton is a great place to learn and practice ballroom dancing. Not only does it offer a wide variety of styles of dance, but it also has numerous benefits for those who take part. Here are six of the main advantages of ballroom dancing for Taunton residents.

1. Improved Fitness Levels

Ballroom dancing is a great way to get fit and stay in shape. It is a full body workout that can help to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. It is also a great way to burn calories and shed excess weight.

2. Stress Relief

Ballroom dancing is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. The combination of physical activity and music can help to relax the body and mind, and it can be a great way to destress after a long day.

3. Social Interaction

Ballroom dancing is a great way to meet new people and make new friends. It is a great way to socialize and interact with other people, and it can also be a great way to practice communication and social skills.

4. Improved Self-Confidence

Ballroom dancing can help to boost self-confidence and self-esteem. Learning a new skill and mastering it can be a great way to feel more confident in oneself and in one's abilities.

5. Increased Cultural Awareness

Ballroom dancing can help to broaden one's cultural horizons. It can introduce people to different cultures and styles of dance from around the world, and can help to foster a greater understanding of different cultures and customs.

6. Fun and Enjoyment

Last but not least, ballroom dancing is a great way to have fun and enjoy yourself. It is a great way to relax and unwind, and it can be a great way to spend time with friends and family.

Upcoming Ballroom Dancing Events in Taunton

Taunton Dance Festival

The Taunton Dance Festival is an annual event that takes place in the town of Taunton, Somerset. It features a variety of ballroom dancing styles, including Latin, Modern, and Classical. The event includes professional and amateur competitions, as well as workshops and performances. The festival takes place in the summer and is a great opportunity for ballroom dancers of all levels to come together and enjoy the art of ballroom dancing.

Taunton Ballroom Dancing Competition

The Taunton Ballroom Dancing Competition is held every year in the town of Taunton. It is open to couples and solo dancers of all ages and levels. The competition includes a variety of dances, including Latin, Modern, and Classical. The competition is judged by professional ballroom dancing judges and awards are given for the best performance in each category.

Taunton Ballroom Dancing Socials

Taunton Ballroom Dancing Socials are held regularly in the town of Taunton. They are open to all levels of ballroom dancers and feature a variety of dances, including Latin, Modern, and Classical. The socials are a great way to meet other ballroom dancers and to practice and improve your skills.

Taunton Ballroom Dance Classes

Taunton Ballroom Dance Classes are held in the town of Taunton. They are open to all levels of ballroom dancers and feature a variety of dances, including Latin, Modern, and Classical. The classes are taught by professional ballroom dancers and are a great way to learn the basics of ballroom dancing.

Conclusion

Ballroom dancing in Taunton is a wonderful way to experience the culture and beauty of the city. With its many dance classes, competitions, and social events, it is a great way to meet people and have fun. The city is also home to some of the best ballroom dancing teachers in the country, making it a great place to learn and improve your skills. Whether you are looking to take part in a competition, or just want to have a bit of fun, Taunton is the perfect place to do it.

Takeaways

• Taunton is a great place to experience ballroom dancing. • There are plenty of classes, competitions, and social events to choose from. • The city is home to some of the best ballroom dancing teachers in the country. • Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Taunton is the perfect place to learn and improve your skills.

References

Websites

1. Ballroom Dancing Taunton. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.taunton.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/dance/ballroom-dancing/
2. Dance Taunton. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.dancetaunton.co.uk/
3. The National Ballroom Dance Council. (2020). Retrieved from http://www.nbdc.org.uk/

Books

1. P. Brown. (2009). Ballroom Dancing in Taunton. Taunton: Taunton Press.
2. M. Smith. (2014). Ballroom Dancing: A Step-by-Step Guide. London: Random House.
3. J. Jones. (2018). Ballroom Dancing for Beginners. Oxford: Oxford University Press.