9 Popular Types of Dance
Are you interested in picking up dance as a new hobby, but aren’t sure where to begin? While ballet is very popular, it may not be your cup of tea. Perhaps you want something more relaxed, or more improvisational, or even something you can do with a partner. Keep reading to learn about some of the most popular types of dance, and see if one of them feels true to you!
Classical Ballet
Typically choreographed to classical music, classical ballet is all about structured, graceful, and precise movements - all while looking as weightless and effortless as possible. The delicate movements of classical ballet are expressed with various spins, jumps, and extensions.
Classical ballet is highly technical, and professional ballerinas typically spend years in formal training. There are six core methods of ballet: the Cecchetti method, the Bournoville method, the Vaganova method, the French School, the Royal Academy of Dance method and the Balanchine method.
Modern
Modern dance is thought to have emerged as a rejection - or response - to classical ballet. Instead of the rigid, structured, and technical movements classical ballet requires, modern dance is more free flowing, fluid, and expressive.
Modern dance is sometimes even paired with speech and film, for a more interpretive effect. Don’t be mistaken, though! Just because modern dance technique may seem more relaxed, it still typically requires strength and flexibility.
Contemporary
Contemporary dance involves a broad range of dance techniques, including classical ballet, jazz, and modern dance. Its movements are often unpredictable, including floorwork and contractions which vary in tempo throughout a performance.
Tap
Tap is a percussive style of dance which relies on the use of metal slats on the toes and heels of each dancers’ shoes to tell a captivating story. Tap dancing can be performed solo or with multiple dancers.
Jazz & Swing
Both jazz and swing dance styles consist of high-energy, dramatic dance movements. However, they are different in their own right. Jazz dance can be done solo or in a pair. Movements are usually highly expressive and trendy - often coupled with popular music. Swing dance is done in pairs, with partners assisting each other in fast-moving lifts, spins, and flips.
Hip Hop
Hip Hop is great for dancers of all ages and allows for the most individualism. Hip Hop dancers may perform in groups or solo, competing against other dancers in various settings - including nightclubs. Types of Hip Hop dance include choreographed, freestyle, breakdancing, pop-locking, and more. Hip Hop dance is also a popular type of fitness technique.
Theatrical
Theatrical dance is perfect for storytelling and can often be coupled with singing and acting. Props, costumes, music, lighting, backdrops, and other onstage components are often a part of theatrical dance. Choreography is typically expressive and interpretive to help communicate a scene.
Ballroom
Ballroom dance is performed with a partner, and learning its steps requires training and practice. Many people practice ballroom dancing for fun - classes are great for meeting new friends and bonding with your spouse. It’s also not uncommon to ballroom dance competitively.
Ballroom dance requires specific choreography. You will either lead or follow your partner with complex footwork, graceful posture, and a strong sense of rhythm. Examples of popular ballroom dance techniques are the tango, foxtrot, salsa, bachata, and the waltz.
Folk
Folk dancing can be observed all around the world. People of various cultures and religions use folk dancing to tell stories, honor traditions, celebrate historical events, or portray emotions. Folk dances commonly occur at public events. People of all ages and experience levels can join in. Hula dancing in Hawaii is a great example of a popular type of folk dancing.
Dance is a great form of exercise, discipline, and self-expression. Choose a style that fits your unique personality, and don’t forget to have fun!