Ballroom Dancing: A Brief History

Ballroom dance refers to a variety of social dances, traditionally for couples in a ballroom setting. Ballroom Dancing has its origins in England in the late 18th and early 19th century. Formal social dances, or balls, were important social events for the upper class in those times when there was no television or radio. In the early 20th century, Ballroom Dancing became popular among the working class who attended public dance halls or "popular assemblies." With the formation of the Ballroom Branch of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing in 1924, the music, dance steps and techniques of Ballroom Dancing were standardised. In the following years, Ballroom Dancing gained immense popularity throughout Europe, the Americas and the Asia-Pacific, becoming a favourite pastime for many. Ballroom Dancing became a popular way for young men and women to meet, for the gentleman to enjoy leisure in the company of his lady, and for married couples to share an enjoyable activity together.

Ballroom Dancing Today

Today, Ballroom Dancing remains a popular recreational and social activity, enjoyed by people of all age groups and classes throughout the world. It has even become a competitive sport, with competitions held at all levels. Ballroom Dancing is an official regular event at the Olympics. There are ten international styles of Ballroom Dance, divided into two categories: