Dances of the world

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Dances of the world

Dances of the world, learn about dance styles from around the world and the best places to see the dances performed.

The tango originated in Argentina in the mid-1800's. There are many different styles of tango for dancers to enjoy. The tango is considered a very sensual dance. Throughout Argentina, visitors can enjoy tango dancing dinner shows where professionals show off their moves, then head to a dance hall to tango the night away.

Flamenco refers to both a dance and music strongly influenced by the gypsy migration into Spain over a period of centuries. It is a passionate and romantic dance form, expressing through actions the emotions of the music being played. In Spain, you will see and hear flamenco being performed in casual impromptu sessions, in concert settings and in theater performances.

Belly dancing is an exotic dance generally associated with the Middle East region of the world. The dance is usually performed by females without a partner. There are a variety of belly dancing styles, but most include rhythmic movements with the abdomen and hips, though the entire body is used for various movements during the dance. Colorful and sensual costumes add to the experience. See the Turkish version of this dance with a dinner and dance show in Istanbul.

The history of Irish dance can be traced all the way back to the Druids, but the Irish step dance started towards the end of the 18th century. The success of the Riverdance show has generated new interest in Irish dance. When in Dublin, head to The Merry Ploughboy Pub to catch a live Irish music and dance show.

Ballet is performed all around the world, with Paris historically being cited as the premier location for ballet training before Russia assumed the reigns of international ballet. It is a very formal art form which takes years of training with dance routines created by professional choreographers. St. Petersburg in Russia is an ideal international destination to enjoy a classic ballet performance.

Samba is a dance with African roots but is now generally associated with Brazilian culture. If you want to see the samba in action, don't miss Carnival season in Rio de Janeiro, where thousands of colorfully costumed dancers perform the dance with joyful abandon.

Tap dancing didn't appear in the American vocabulary until the 1920's. The dance is a combination of traditional African American rhythms combined with European clogging steps. The dance can be performed solo or in group performances. Originally part of many vaudeville acts, today tap dancing can be seen on the stage in Broadway productions.

Salsa dancing was developed in Cuba but has spread in popularity throughout Latin America and the U.S. Salsa dancing styles vary from country to country. Head to New York City, L.A. or Miami for popular venues offering salsa dancing.

Break dancing is a relatively modern form of dance, which started in the late 1960's in New York City by African American youths. A combination of acrobatic dance moves and martial art techniques, the high-energy dance form is very competitive in spirit, resulting in break dance battles. In addition to New York City and other urban centers in the U.S., you might catch break dancers in action in Tokyo's Yoyogi Park.

Square dancing has European roots but is considered a popular American dance because it developed into many different styles in this country. This dance involves a caller leading many couples on the dance floor to perform various moves and generates fun and fellowship for all involved.

Clog dancing has Western European roots but is now an American institution. Clog means time, with the dancer's heels keeping time to the beat of the music. The dance style allows one to improvise and show their individual style. It continues to be popular throughout America, particularly in the southern region.

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The tango originated in Argentina in the mid-1800's. There are many different styles of tango for dancers to enjoy. The tango is considered a very sensual dance. Throughout Argentina, visitors can enjoy tango dancing dinner shows where professionals show off their moves, then head to a dance hall to tango the night away.

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