Ballroom Dance at Legacy With Colorado DanceSport
Every year, the Legacy Dance Festival draws dancers from across the region to celebrate the art of partner dancing. Colorado DanceSport, a Denver and Littleton ballroom studio, is proud to participate in this vibrant event. Instructors and students alike take the floor to perform, compete, and share their passion for ballroom dance. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or someone who has never danced before, the Legacy Festival offers a glimpse into the rich world of ballroom dance. This article explores what ballroom dance truly is, the different styles and schools, and how Colorado DanceSport helps dancers of all levels enjoy this timeless activity.
What Is Ballroom Dance?
Ballroom dance is a set of European partner dances enjoyed both socially and competitively. The term “ballroom” comes from the Latin word ballare, meaning “to dance.” The earliest known ballroom dances were recorded in 1588 by Thoinot Arbeau in his work Orchésographie. Over centuries, these dances evolved into the elegant forms we know today. Ballroom dance exists in three distinct worlds: social, competitive (also called dancesport), and exhibition. Each world has its own focus. Social ballroom prioritizes the partner’s experience, competitive ballroom is judged on technical skill and performance, and exhibition ballroom is choreographed to entertain an audience.
Two Major Schools: International and American
Ballroom dance is divided into two main schools: the International School and the American School. The International School is used worldwide except in the United States and is regulated by the World Dance Council and the World DanceSport Federation. The American School is primarily danced in the United States and is regulated by USA Dance. While some dances share names between the two schools, the technique and styling can differ significantly.
International School Dances
The International School includes Standard dances and Latin dances. Standard dances are Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, and Quickstep. Latin dances are Samba, Cha Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble, and Jive. International Standard is known for its closed hold and smooth, gliding movements. International Latin is more dynamic and allows for open holds and hip action.
American School Dances
The American School consists of Smooth dances and Rhythm dances. Smooth dances are Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, and Viennese Waltz. Rhythm dances are Cha Cha, Rumba, East Coast Swing, Bolero, and Mambo. American Smooth permits more open positions and figures that break the closed hold, giving dancers room for creative expression. American Rhythm emphasizes the stylized hip and body movements of Latin-influenced dances.
Comparing the Schools
|
Feature |
International School |
American School |
|---|---|---|
|
Geographic use |
Worldwide except US |
Primarily United States |
|
Regulatory bodies |
WDC, WDSF |
USA Dance |
|
Standard/Smooth dances |
5 (Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep) |
4 (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz; Peabody omitted) |
|
Latin/Rhythm dances |
5 (Samba, Cha Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive) |
5 (Cha Cha, Rumba, East Coast Swing, Bolero, Mambo) |
|
Technique emphasis |
Strict closed hold in Standard; sharp, staccato actions |
More open movements; greater freedom in Smooth |
Social, Competitive, and Exhibition Ballroom
Ballroom dance is not limited to competition floors. Many people enjoy it as a social activity at parties, weddings, and dance clubs. Social ballroom focuses on the partner’s experience, with improvised steps and a relaxed approach to technique. Competitive ballroom, or dancesport, is centered on judges’ evaluations. Dancers train rigorously to perfect choreography and technique. Exhibition ballroom is designed for the audience, often incorporating theatrical elements and elaborate routines. Colorado DanceSport supports dancers in all three worlds, offering lessons for social dancers, training for competitors, and performance opportunities at events like the Legacy Dance Festival.
Beginner-Friendly Ballroom Dances
For those new to ballroom dance, some dances are easier to pick up than others. Beginner-friendly dances include Waltz, Rumba, Cha-Cha, and Foxtrot. Waltz is danced at 28 bars per minute in 3/4 time, making it smooth and flowing. Ballroom tango has a 2/4 time signature and is danced at 32 bars per minute, giving it a crisp, staccato feel. Rumba and Cha-Cha are Latin dances with distinct rhythms that are enjoyable for beginners to learn. Colorado DanceSport’s group classes in Littleton and Denver frequently cover these dances, ensuring newcomers can start with accessible steps.
Colorado DanceSport at the Legacy Dance Festival
Colorado DanceSport participates in the Legacy Dance Festival with a strong presence of instructors and students. The festival provides a stage for dancers to showcase their skills in a supportive environment. Whether competing in Pro-Am, Am-Am, or professional categories, participants from the studio demonstrate the artistry and discipline of ballroom dance. The studio emphasizes an inclusive atmosphere where no partner is necessary. This philosophy aligns perfectly with the Legacy Festival’s spirit of bringing the dance community together. Students at Colorado DanceSport train in both International and American styles, preparing them for the diverse events offered at the festival.
Why Choose Colorado DanceSport?
Located in the Denver and Littleton area, Colorado DanceSport offers private lessons, group classes, wedding choreography, and competitive training. The studio welcomes dancers of all ages and skill levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned competitors. The instructors are experienced in ballroom, Latin, country, swing, and more. The studio’s partner-free environment means you can learn to dance without bringing a partner. Group classes are scheduled weekly, and private lessons allow for focused progress. For those interested in competition, the studio provides Pro-Am, Am-Am, and professional programs. The inclusive, community-first approach makes it easy to start your ballroom dance journey.
How to Get Started
If you are in the Denver or Littleton area and want to experience ballroom dance, Colorado DanceSport invites you to take the first step. No prior dance experience is needed, and you do not need to bring a partner. Call the studio today to schedule a private lesson or sign up for a group class. Whether your goal is to compete at the Legacy Dance Festival, dance at a wedding, or simply enjoy a new hobby, ballroom dance offers a rewarding path. The studio’s friendly staff will help you find the class that fits your schedule and interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ballroom dance?
Ballroom dance is a set of European partner dances enjoyed socially and competitively. It includes styles such as Waltz, Tango, Cha-Cha, and Rumba. The term comes from the Latin word ballare, meaning “to dance.” Modern ballroom dance is divided into International and American schools, each with its own set of dances and techniques.
Do I need a partner to take lessons at Colorado DanceSport?
No, you do not need a partner. Colorado DanceSport emphasizes an inclusive, partner-free environment. Group classes are designed so you can rotate partners or practice on your own. Private lessons are also available with an instructor, so you can learn without needing to bring someone else.
What styles of ballroom dance are taught at Colorado DanceSport?
The studio teaches both International and American styles, including Smooth, Standard, Rhythm, and Latin dances. Popular dances include Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, and Swing. The studio also offers lessons in country, two-step, and line dancing, as well as wedding first dance choreography.
Can beginners compete at the Legacy Dance Festival?
Yes, the Legacy Dance Festival includes categories for all levels, from newcomer to champion. Colorado DanceSport prepares students for Pro-Am and Am-Am competitions. Beginners are welcome to participate with the guidance of their instructors. The festival is a great way to experience the excitement of competitive ballroom dance.
Ballroom dance offers a world of rhythm, connection, and artistry. Whether you are attending the Legacy Dance Festival or starting your first lesson, the dance floor awaits. Colorado DanceSport in Denver and Littleton is ready to help you take that step. Call or visit the studio to begin your ballroom dance journey today.