Higher Standards in Dance Education

By James Robey

In order to run a day care or nursery school, one needs to be certified. To teach in the public schools, one needs at least a bachelor's degree, preferably a master's degree. College dance programs require their faculty to have college degrees in addition to professional experience. So, what do you need to teach at a private dance studio: nothing. Anyone can throw up a shingle that says "Dolly Dinkle's Studio of Dance" and be in business.

Is there a need for standards in dance education?

Dance is a physically demanding activity. Taught incorrectly, it can lead to injury. Improper training causes long-term damage to the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. In addition to the damage it can cause physically, poor standards in dance education lead to low expectations and even lower opinions of dance in the eye of the public. Exposed regularly to low quality dance, students and their parents grow to see dance as something trivial and frivolous. This trivializing of dance is dangerously subversive to the profession. After sitting through never-ending recitals of fringe and sequins, parents are unlikely to voluntarily see a live professional dance concert.

Even on the occasion that they do venture to a professional performance, they are often disappointed. After being accustomed to frilly recitals, a professional dance performance can seem mentally challenging, intense, and even dull. Every dance studio, show, or organization that adheres to poor standards diminishes the larger dance community by turning potential audience members, supporters, and emerging dancers away from dance.

So, why not create national standards for private dance schools?

The American psyche is still very much a cowboy (or cowgirl) at heart. We do not want rules and regulations encroaching on our precious freedoms. Many dance studio owners' and teachers' jobs would be threatened if they were required to meet national standards. To their credit, they point out outstanding individual teachers who had amazing performance careers, then became excellent teachers, but never received degrees. The fear is that standards would not only regulate poor teachers, but also punish good teachers. While a legitimate concern, I believe that teachers who are truly passionate about dance education would, or already do, embrace standards as a chance for self-improvement and not as an obstacle.

Where the United States fears to regulate itself, a higher percentage of private dance school educators in England and Canada have adopted professional standards and established curriculums in their practices. From my experience working in Canada, I found the dance education in the country to be more consistent from studio to studio than in America. They do not have the plethora of poor quality dance studios that I have found throughout the United States. The acceptance of professional standards and established curriculum has raised the bar of the average small-town dance studio above that currently practiced in America.

However, there is another side. Canada does not have as many exceptional, innovative dance education organizations as the United States. It would seem that standardization runs the risk of stifling creativity. Dance in the United States continues to be the leading innovator for the world. The concept of national standards in dance threatens innovation, our cowboy/cowgirl spirit, and our qualified, yet non-degreed, teachers. These factors lead to a resistance to accept standardization in the United States.

We need standards but we're too stubborn to accept them...what now?

While the American spirit is unlikely to bend to national standards created by a governing board, there is a group of individuals that already unknowingly sets the standards for dance schools: the parents. Parents drive the level of quality in our market-driven society. However, it is difficult for a parent, uneducated in the field of dance, to make an informed choice.

Unfortunately, many parents view the dance teacher's role on par with the baseball coach or the cheerleading coach. Most coaches for youth baseball, soccer, and cheerleading were not professionals or professionally educated. And even fewer have been educated in how to teach. This is fine for youth sports. What they are not taking into serious consideration is the fact that the demands of dance training on the body, at even the youngest level, can create great growth or great damage. The seemingly harmless decision of finding a dance studio for your child can be harmful to their young bodies. It takes time and energy to research which dance schools live up to high standards.

If you pick up your local phone book and flip to the dance school section, you will find ads for a number of dance studios. Chances are, the majority of those ads claim to provide "quality" or "professional" instruction. Who is going to be honest enough to admit "below average" or "highly amateur" instruction? The term "professional teachers" is loosely tossed about in these advertisements. The average parent assumes that "professional teachers" are ones who danced professionally or were at least educated at a professional level. But often, the justification for the term is nothing more than claiming that the teacher is paid for teaching. Using that definition of "professional teachers", I would like to the see the studio with "non-professional teachers" who work for free. I doubt they exist. As a parent searching for a dance school, you want the best for your child. Nevertheless, how can you decipher one school from another when they all claim to be "exceptional?"

What can we do?

I believe the education of the public is the dance community's top priority. We must teach students and their parents the importance of proper dance education:

1) Teach them about proper fundamentals that 'do no harm.' 'Knees over toes' is the most fundamental safe practice in dance education, yet many uninformed teachers force turn-out on dancers who are either too young to properly execute it or physically unequipped to handle the demands. If parents know what practices are safe and which are not, they can make better decisions in choosing a dance school

2) Teach them the value of a progressive, structured curriculum. 'Slow and steady wins the race.' There is a place and time--a sequence--to learning dance. Rushing children to do pointe work or to try technical tricks before they are ready is detrimental to their education as well as dangerous to their bodies. If parents know how a properly structured curriculum works, they can find a dance school where correct education is the focus.

3) Teach them respect for themselves and for the art of dance. Age-appropriate themes, choreography, and costumes not only teach students self-respect, but also helps them learn the vocabulary of dance in the proper order. Inappropriate choreography applies equally to the jazz teacher showing young students suggestive movements as to the ballet teacher showing professional variations to students who are not prepared. If parents know what is age-appropriate, they can better choose a dance school that adheres to higher standards.

Educating students and parents on what proper standards are in dance education is the only way to ensure a future of healthy dancers, create informed audience members, and promote a new generation of qualified teachers. The responsibility for standards in private dance school education will not fall on some national governing board. Rather, it spreads out from each of us to our students and their parents. The responsibility is ours.


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Belly Dance in Barcelona, Spain

By Paul Symonds

The Middle Eastern dance - raqs sharqi or raqs baladi - in which the dancer makes sensuous movements of the hips and abdomen - is called belly dance or belly dancing in the western countries. It is sometimes called 'oriental dance' or 'Egyptian dance' in Europe.

The dancers in belly dancing use the movements of every muscle group of their bodies. The dance starts with slow beat music but it become fast and goes to climax before ringing the final curtain down. So the dancers in belly dancing are required to energetic and flexible.

Traditionally, belly dancing is the dance for both the sexes, but the dance is growing extremely popular among women of the western countries. The dance offers the dancers complete opportunity to revel their muscle movements. It's getting popular among women because the dance helps spotlighting the feminine sensuality. The dance is more appreciated when it is performed by mature curvaceous women.

Belly Dancing has grown extremely popular in the Australia, Europe, United Kingdom, and United States. The western women are making therapeutic use of belly dancing. As belly dancing require a lot of muscle power, most of the western women approach belly dance for exercising, strengthening body-mind-soul, building fine figures, etc.

The therapeutic use of dance movements for the social, cognitive, emotional, and physical development of dancers is termed as "dance therapy." Dance therapy began as a profession in the 1940s with the work of Marian Chace. Dance therapy is a psychotherapy that dance therapists use to treat many kinds of emotional problems, intellectual deficits, and life-threatening illnesses. Dance therapy is growing popular at psychiatric hospitals, day care centers, mental health centers, prisons, special schools, etc.

Belly dancing is one the best dance forms that is often used as dance therapy. Belly dancing is usually preferred by dance therapists because the dance literally makes dancers exercising thru its tough muscle movements.

Belly dancing has grown as highly popular dance in Spain. There have come up a number belly dancing schools in the cities like Barcelona and Madrid. There are number of professional women belly dancers organizing classes for Spanish women in the city of Barcelona. Some of the dancers offering belly dancing include Devorah Korek - Escuela Sarabi (Phone: (34) 934 10 11 12), Lesya Starr - Estudio Lesya (Phone: 0034 630 972679), Aida, Hanan (Phone: (34) 933100732), and Valentina (Phone: 0034 647241595).

Belly dancing has grown fanatically popular as dance therapy in Barcelona, Spain. There are a number of Barcelona belly dancers using belly dancing as dance therapy to treat several psychological and health problems. Belly dancing dance therapy is helpful to a wide range of patients-from psychiatric patients to those with cancer to lonely elderly people. The dance therapy is often used by dancers used express emotions regarding their traumatic experiences that they traumatic literally talk about.



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Dance Videos are Educational, Fun, and Great Exercise

By Chris Robertson

The world seems to be divided into dancers and non-dancers. To the chagrin of women everywhere, men often simply declare that they don't dance. These guys don't understand that men who do dance have a secret weapon in their dating arsenal. Let's face it: women are enamored with men who enjoy dancing.

Aside from the gender divide, there are people who seem to have a natural sense of rhythm and people who don't. We've all witnessed people on the dance floor who can't seem to keep time with the music, or who cause us to look away when they begin their "signature move." Shudder.

There are any number of reasons why people can't or don't dance. Many times, they're just not used to expressing themselves through movement. They may be disconnected with their bodies, and have never experienced the joy and satisfaction of feeling the beat and moving to its rhythm. They might be self-conscious and want to avoid drawing attention to themselves because they fear being ridiculed. Or perhaps they simply don't know how to dance.

Learn to Dance without Fear

For those who can't or don't dance, dance videos can open up a wonderful new universe of self-expression - without the fear. For example, a person can buy a dance DVD and learn to dance in the comfort of his or her own home, away from prying eyes. A couple can practice together in the living room, either in conjunction with lessons or instead of lessons. Over time, non-dancers will realize that dancing is nothing to be feared; the only objective is to enjoy themselves.

There are an amazing number of dance videos available on the market today. Whether you're looking for a hip hop dance video, a ballet video, a line dance video, or a ballroom dance DVD, you'll find a variety of dance videos to suit your taste.

Expand Your Horizons

For those who already love to dance, dance videos can serve as an introduction to a greater variety of dances. For example, maybe you've always harbored a secret desire to learn clogging, or want to express your sensuality through belly dancing. Perhaps you want to feel the Latin heat, and are ready to learn flamenco or salsa. Or you may want to go retro and learn to swing dance or to do the Lindy hop.

If you love dancing, you'll find that dance videos open up a whole new universe of delight. You don't have to wait for a class, or if you're in a class, dance videos can help you practice between classes.

Dancing is Great Exercise

If you want to get into or stay in shape, dancing can provide cardio benefits, as well as improve your balance and increase your stamina. Who wants to log in time on a treadmill when you can move your body to the beat? Learning to hula dance will provide a workout to muscles you never knew you had, while hip hop will get your heart rate up. In addition to dance videos, you can also find videos and DVDs that use dance as a mechanism to achieve fitness. For example, there are dance videos that use Motown moves or rock tunes as part of a specific fitness routine.

Whatever your relationship to dance, there's no doubt that dance videos can kick it up a notch. Just remember that dance is all about expressing yourself through movement and that the bottom line is to enjoy yourself.



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Belly Dance and Dancing

A Beginner's Introduction
By Paul Symonds

The term "belly dance" is the brain child of Orientalism. The term has its roots in the Middle Eastern. Belly Dance is a Middle Eastern dance in which the dancer makes sensuous movements of the hips and abdomen.

Actually, 'belly dance' is the western name for an Arabic style of dance developed in the Middle East. It is sometimes also termed as belly dancing in the West. Belly Dance is called Raqs Sharqi or sometimes Raqs Baladi (national or folk dance) in Arabic language.

Belly Dance is sometimes called oriental dance in Europe. The dance is referred to as Oryantal Dansi (Dance of the East) in Turkish. It is called 'Danse du ventre' in French. The Americans simply refer to the dance as belly dance or "Middle Eastern Dance."

In the Middle East, Raqs Baladi (belly dance) is a social dance that is performed on all festive occasions such as weddings and other social gatherings for fun and celebration. The dance is performed by people of all ages and both sexes. Raqs Sharqi, the dramatized version of Raqs Baladi, is performed by professional dancers. It is the traditional dance of the Arabs who learn the dance from an early age.

In belly dance, a dancer uses movements in every muscle group of his/her body. A dancer visually communicates the emotion and rhythm of the music to the audience.
Belly Dance is the solo dance with its own unique dance vocabulary that is fluidly integrated with the music's rhythm.

Though the dance is performed by men also, belly dance is mainly viewed as a woman's dance. Belly dance is appreciated more when it is performed by a mature voluptuous woman. It is actually the dance celebrating the feminine sensuality.

Belly Dance is one of the most popular dances in the Australia, Europe, United Kingdom, and United States. Belly Dance is highly popular in Australia. Australia hosts the annual Sydney Middle Eastern Dance Festival.

There are several dance schools in the Europe, and the United States offering belly dance classes. Belly dance classes are flourishing Greece, France, UK, etc. The UK will host the first Annual International Bellydance Congress in September 2007. As belly dance require a lot of muscle power, most of the western women approach belly dance for exercising, strengthening body-mind-soul, building fine figures, etc.

Belly Dance is extremely popular in the U.S. It is very popular dance at a number of ethnic nightclubs owned by operated and patronized by members of the ethnic communities of Mediterranean countries like Greece, Turkey, Lebanon and Syria. The American celebrities, such as Jennifer Lopez and Shakira have featured belly dance in their videos. The dance has been filmed in a number of popular Hollywood movies.

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Good Dance Shoes Are A Necessity For Good Dancing

By Gregg Hall

What would dancing be without dance shoes? For most men, choosing the right men's dance shoes can be a burden. What most men do not know is that there are various types of men's dancing shoes. Some dances even have their own type of dancing shoes. Remember guys, sneakers, or shoes with rubber soles, sandals or any open-toe footwear just won't do. A soled leather shoe like loafers will do nicely. The most essential aspect is that proper men's dance shoes must be comfortable and fits nicely on your feet. You will not be able to focus on dancing if your feet are sore.

The dance floor also plays an important role in the fundamentals of the comfort of your feet. Dance studios are typically cushioned and have a spring like underflooring. These are the type of flooring that is right for dancing. It allows the dancer to dance longer with the aid of proper men's dance shoes. However some dance studios have concrete flooring with hardwood over it. Avoid dancing in this kind of flooring or your feet will be sore in no time.

When buying the right kind of men's dance shoes that suits you, you must think of it as an investment. Shop around a little bit. Prices, styles and selection of men's dance shoes are never ending. Men's dance shoes are engineered for dancing and some men's dance shoes improve your image on the dance floor. You want to look good on the dance floor would you?

Some features of men's dance shoes have their own purposes. Like for example the ankle straps of a ballet shoe, it provides not just the appealing look but also aids in setting your feet firmly on the shoes. Some men's dancing shoes have pumps that make the shoes hug your feet. The heels of men's dancing shoes have different heights and widths. This depends on what style of dance the shoe was designed for. Regular men's dance shoes have suede soles that make the dancer glide across the dance floor. This kind of men's dance shoes are good for doing turns and spins. Just a reminder, don't wear dance shoes outside. You must always put them on a carrying case whenever you are traveling. Also, brush the nap of the suede every once in a while. By doing these it will extend the wear of the dance shoes.

Remember that your dance shoes should depend on the type of dance that you will perform. Always wear your dance shoes on rehearsals, wearing dance shoes for the first time will be uncomfortable, wear them to break them in. The benefit of wearing dance shoes on rehearsals is that you will be more comfortable with it during the actual performance. What's the hold up? Grab your dance shoes and let's do some serious dancing.


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Rules of En-Tangoment

Dance Floor Etiquette
By Richard Hall


All social activities have rules of etiquette and social dancing is no different. There are general rules of etiquette that apply to all forms of dancing–smooth, Latin, Texas Two-step, even disco line dance. Knowing these rules will make the dance floor experience enjoyable for everyone.

Before the Dance

There is no delicate way to put this: Please practice good hygiene. Offensive body odors and bad breath are frowned upon on the dance floor. Many dance aficionados will go so far as to avoid eating certain strong foods on the days they are planning to dance. At the very least, a good shower, deodorant, and a swig of mouthwash will ensure that you dance the night away without offending your partner.

Clothing will vary by the type of event – formal, semi-formal, dressy casual, even shorts— but can also vary by the type of dance. You may choose to wear western wear for country line dancing, or dark themed clothing for Tango. This is not required but if you are a novice it is great way to get accepted into a new dance community. There are a few general rules that apply to all dances:

• Avoid big accessories that can get caught in your partner’s clothing or, worse, scratch or bruise someone.

• It is advisable to avoid tennis shoes or any rubber soled, spongy type shoe. These shoes tend to stick to the floor (as they are intended to); if you are executing spins and turns, you can injure an ankle or knee.

• Remember that dancing will require a partner. It is not pleasant to touch someone’s damp, sticky skin so avoid sleeveless shirts and dresses.

• Women with long hair should consider wearing it up or in a ponytail to avoid hitting a partner in the face during a spin or having your partner’s hand get caught in it.

• Men should carry keys and loose change in their left pants pocket making it less likely to bruise their partner.

At the Dance

Before you hit the dance floor, you will need a partner. It is considered rude to dance with the same partner all night, even if it happens to be your spouse! If you came with a partner it is generally accepted that they shall have the first and last dance. It is also considered rude to dance more than two songs in a row with the same person.

When asking someone to dance, you should do so politely and accept a refusal just as politely. These days it is acceptable for men and women to ask someone to dance. If you are on the receiving end of an invitation, remember that it is rude to turn down a dance with someone and then accept an invitation from another partner during the same song.

Once a song is over, men should escort women back to their seats or to wherever they were standing prior to the dance. If someone has just finished dancing, wait until they are completely off the dance floor before inviting them back out again. Do not pounce on someone as they are leaving the dance floor.

Do not block access to the dance floor by standing and talking or moving chairs into pathways. Dance spaces are usually crowded so be considerate of others’ space.

Social dances are categorized into two types – progressive and spot dances. Progressive dances travel the floor like the Polka, Foxtrot, and Waltz. Spot dances are typically danced in one spot and include Salsa, Rumba and East Coast Swing. Dancers move counterclockwise around the floor in progressive dances. This is known as the line of dance and is like an imaginary circle going counterclockwise. In addition to the line of dance there are two lanes, the outside or fast lane and the inside or slow lane. Dances such as the Tango, Waltz, and Foxtrot are danced in the two outer lanes. Spot dances such as the Cha Cha, Swing or slow dancing are danced in the inside lanes.

Newbie dancers should move toward the center or outer edges, depending on the style of dance. While newbies should concede more space to more experienced dancers, it is equally rude for experienced dancers to hog floor space with fancy moves which force other dancers out of the way.

By following these simple rules of dance etiquette, you are sure to have a great time dancing the night away!



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The Health Benefits of Dancing

Including Specific Benefits of Different Dances
By Brian Vaszily


If you secretly sashay across your living room when you're home alone or long to cha-cha with your significant other, you're in luck. Not only is dancing an exceptional way to let loose and have fun, but it also provides some terrific benefits for your health.

In fact, Mayo Clinic researchers reported that social dancing helps to:

* Reduce stress
* Increase energy
* Improve strength
* Increase muscle tone and coordination

And whether you like to kick up your heals to hip hop, classical or country, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) says that dancing can:

* Lower your risk of coronary heart disease
* Decrease blood pressure
* Help you manage your weight
* Strengthen the bones of your legs and hips

Dancing is a unique form of exercise because it provides the heart-healthy benefits of an aerobic exercise while also allowing you to engage in a social activity. This is especially stimulating to the mind, and one 21-year study published in the New England Journal of Medicine even found dancing can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia in the elderly.

In the study, participants over the age of 75 who engaged in reading, dancing and playing musical instruments and board games once a week had a 7 percent lower risk of dementia compared to those who did not. Those who engaged in these activities at least 11 days a month had a 63 percent lower risk!

Interestingly, dancing was the only physical activity out of 11 in the study that was associated with a lower risk of dementia. Said Joe Verghese, a neurologist at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and a lead researcher of the study, "This is perhaps because dance music engages the dancer's mind."

Verghese says dancing may be a triple benefit for the brain. Not only does the physical aspect of dancing increase blood flow to the brain, but also the social aspect of the activity leads to less stress, depression and loneliness. Further, dancing requires memorizing steps and working with a partner, both of which provide mental challenges that are crucial for brain health.

How Good of a Workout is Dancing, Really?

The amount of benefit you get from dancing depends on, like most exercises, the type of dancing you're doing, how strenuous it is, the duration and your skill level.

Says exercise physiologist Catherine Cram, MS, of Comprehensive Fitness Consulting in Middleton, Wisconsin, "Once someone gets to the point where they're getting their heart rate up, they're actually getting a terrific workout. Dance is a weight-bearing activity, which builds bones. It's also "wonderful" for your upper body and strength."

Plus, dancing requires using muscles that you may not even know you had.

"If you're dancing the foxtrot, you're taking long, sweeping steps backwards. That's very different than walking forward on a treadmill or taking a jog around the neighborhood ... Ballroom dancing works the backs of the thighs and buttock muscles differently from many other types of exercise," says Ken Richards, professional dancer and spokesman for USA Dance, the national governing body of DanceSport (competitive ballroom dancing).

Specific Benefits of Different Dances

If you're looking for specific health results, here's a breakdown of the benefits of some popular dances. Just remember that any type of dancing is better than no dancing at all!

Belly Dancing

* Improved posture and muscle toning
* Maintains flexibility
* Helps prevent lower back problems
* Tones and firms arms and shoulders
* Helps with weight loss
* Helps prepare women for childbirth
* Reduces stress


Dancing Off Those Calories

How many calories will you burn while dancing? That depends on the type of dancing. Here's a range of some of the most popular varieties, based on a 150-pound person, per hour:

* Swing dancing: 235 calories/hour
* Ballroom dancing: 265
* Square dancing: 280
* Ballet: 300
* Belly dancing: 380
* Salsa dancing: 420+
* Aerobic dancing: 540+


Ballroom Dancing

* Conditions the body
* Helps keep the heart in shape
* Builds and increases stamina
* Develops the circulatory system
* Strengthens and tones legs and body
* Increases flexibility and balance
* Helps with weight loss
* Relieves stress


Salsa Dancing

* Builds endurance and stamina
* Helps with weight loss
* Relieves stress
* Helps you release toxins via sweating
* May help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels
* Can lead to a reduced heart rate over time


Square Dancing

* Provides cardiovascular conditioning
* May lead to a slower heart rate, lower blood pressure and an improved cholesterol profile
* Strengthens bones
* Helps you develop strong social ties
* Loosens and tones muscles

Physical benefits aside, dancing has a way of brightening up a person's day, says ballroom owner and operator Karen Tebeau.

"A lot of times, when people come into the studio, it's because there's been a change in their life: a divorce or they've been through a period of depression. They (continue) coming in, and you see a big change. After a while, they're walking in with a sunny expression. You know it's the dancing that's doing that," she says.




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Latin Dance

Ballroom- Your Questions Answered

By Martin Grocott

It is never too late to start dancing! Dance classes are designed to serve as an introduction to movement for dancers at any age, with or without dance experience.

Pursue that desire for dance you have had since you were young, or try it just for fun! In my opinion, it is the best exercise that you can participate in, because it tones your body while being great fun, boosting your confidence and giving you a new opportunity to socialise and meet new people.

A Brief History

The development of what is called 'Modern Ballroom' started after the First World War. The dances included: Waltz, (Onestep) or Quickstep and Foxtrot. The ballroom Tango was introduced a little earlier in 1913 from Argentina via France where it was changed from the Argentine Tango of today to a Ballroom Tango.

Music at that time was constantly changing and developing on a massive scale to the previous style of dance and popular music. For example, the music mainly used for Waltz is a romantic ballad and played at a very much slower tempo than was used. Saying that ,the more lively the music, the more inspiring it became to dancers and some of the dancing became unacceptable on social occasions. It was now time to standardise some of the dances.

The outcome resulted in a minimum number of figures used for the basic ballroom dances. This resulted in Modern Ballroom becoming one of the most popular pass times and entertainment. Development continued throughout the 20's and 30's and various changes and updates were made, even to the point of, in 1923, the Waltz was altered to the closing of feet on the third beat of each bar and to include 'Rise and Fall' and was now danced diagonally around the dance floor. Even the chasse from the slow version of Foxtrot was removed, hence the Foxtrot is now based on four standard figures: Feather Step, Three Step, Natural Turn and the Reverse Open Turn. The fast version of the Foxtrot kept the chasse and was then renamed 'The Quickstep'. Argentine Tango on the other hand had a theme of it's own and was exciting, vibrant and sexy. This was developed and transformed in to the ballroom Tango of today. These dances are constantly picked over and updated to match trends of today. Thus it always looks exciting and new.

The Difference between Ballroom and Latin American DanceIn the Standard dance competitions, men typically wear coat tails, and bow ties,while women wear elegant and colorful gowns, often with sheer fabric draped from the shoulders or arms. Partners remain in a closed position throughout the dance, and movements tend to be elegant and sweeping.

The Latin dances are more overtly sensual, with skimpy costumes for women and tight-fitting ones for men. More variation in movement is allowed than in the Standard dances, so hip action and athletic maneuvers such as dips and drops are common.

American style

In the 'Smooth', dancers wear costumes similar to those worn by their counterparts iIn Standard; however, the dances themselves are significantly different as a result of influence by dancers like Fred Astaire and Arthur Murray in the years following the Second World War. While elegance and flow remain the goal, as in International Standard, dancers do not remain in closed position exclusively, instead breaking away from each other periodically and experimenting with open footwork.

Questions I feel silly asking!

How do we dance around the floor? - It should be noted that when on the Dance Floor we dance anti-clockwise around the floor. Otherwise accidents may occur.

Are there special directions to follow? - Yes, each dance has its own set of directions to follow. It would be advantageous to learn these directions first. Who is in charge? - It is generally accepted that the Leader is in charge on the Dance Floor. Although most followers will find it difficult to hand over the reins to start with!

Where do I dance as a beginner? - If you think of the Dance Floor being separated into three lanes "Slow" "Medium" & "Fast" much like a motorway. As a beginner start in the "outside lane the "Slow" lane, the outside edge of the dance floor the more advanced dancers will/should dance around you. The "Medium" and "Fast" lanes will be used by intermediate and advanced dancers doing more advanced dance steps and moving from one lane to another. Floor etiquette dictates that they will give way and dance around lesser experienced dancers.

What about our safety on the floor? - Safety is paramount on a dance floor if you consider the amount of couples on a dance floor at any one time accidents may happen. The 'leader' is responsible in the main to guide his partner safely around the floor avoiding collisions!

What about other people on the dance floor? - As stated all ready when dancing the leader is responsible for safe passage around the floor. Politeness to and by all users on the dance floor is very important to achieve a good all round dancing experience.

Where do I start dancing? - You can start dancing from any point around the dance floor, but be careful when you join other people already dancing on the floor that you do not get in their way when joining, as they may be traveling quite fast and not be able to avoid you! So be patient and careful when joining other dancers already on the dance floor.

How do I recognize which dance is being played? - Once you have gained a little experience you will know what dance is being played. More often than not the dance will be announced anyway. If not, you will recognize some of the steps being danced by other dancers on the floor. If you are still not sure just ask!

What type of clothes/shoes should I wear? - For beginners comfortable clothes and shoes will be sufficient. Later once you feel you are progressing you may like to buy professional dance shoes as they enable you to feel the floor much better than ordinary every day shoes. I would suggest that "trainers" or rubber soled shoes or very high heels for the ladies should not be worn, as when you are dancing you may need to be able to slide slightly on some steps. Shoes should fit and be fastened and the heels especially for the ladies should be supported and strapped to the foot. Clothes should be comfortable and not too tight to enable you to move around the floor with ease. For ladies the more flowing the hem of the dress the better it feels and looks.

What if my dance partner is better than me? - This is not a problem you will find that if the leader is more experienced than the follower then the leader will be better able to direct the follower on and around the dance floor. If on the other hand the follower is more experienced, then she will be better suited to following the routine dictated by the leader.

How should I hold my dance partner? - It should be noted that the hold for Ballroom Dance (Waltz, Quickstep, Foxtrot and Tango) is different to that of Latin Dance (Rumba, Samba, Jive and Cha Cha Cha). A full description of correct hold with annotated with pictures for both the "Follower" and the "Leader" will appear later.

How do I know which foot to start with? - You will feel from your leader which foot will be the start foot. Different dances start on different feet. So take care and feel you way!

Who "leads" the dance and why? - The man will lead as a rule, as he has a more commanding view of who, if anybody, is dancing in front of him and his partner, down the "Line of Dance" (LOD). Where as the lady "the follower" will have her back to the "Line of Dance" and should be looking over the leaders shoulder most of the time. Some followers in the initial stages of learning to dance will find it 'difficult' to relinquish all control to their leaders at first.


Read Also About Power Of Dance
Read Also About Belly Dance

Whosoever Knoweth the Power of the Dance, Dwelleth in God

By Dzagbe Cudjoe

Sacred Dance has nothing to do with a specific dance style or with particular body techniques. The dancer moves in a way that unities his or her Mind, Body and Spirit with a Higher Spiritual Energy. It is not of importance whether we call this energy "God", "The Creator", "The Great Spirit", "Nature", "The Cosmos" or anything else. What is important is that this results in the dancer feeling spiritually uplifted and filled with joy.

Dance is clearly one of the earliest forms of worship. Cave art from early prehistoric times onwards bears witness to the power of the dance. Such paintings and engravings occur worldwide. In the western part of Arnhem Land in Australia a cave painting shows two men playing instruments to accompany the dance. A rock shelter at Cogul near Lenda in Catolonia, Spain portrays a group of nine women. They are wearing knee length skirts and are dancing round a small naked male figure. The State of Madhya Pradash in India has abundant rock art depicting dancers and musicians. The caves in Tassili Algeria have paintings of female dancers and the Etruscans in 500 BC depicted dancing in wall frescoes.

Certain dances mimic animals or are aimed to ensure that something happens. For example hunters in ancient times are shown in cave paintings dancing wearing animal skins and masks. We can safely assume that this was to ensure good hunting. Dances miming the gathering of the harvest must also be of ancient origin. As time has passed such dances have become folk dance rather than sacred dance.

Sacred Dance is often preceded by elaborate secret preparations such as bathing, avoidance of certain foods and drinks and from sexual intercourse. There may be periods of intense prayer and the taking of trance inducing substances.

One of the best documented European sacred dances is that connected to the cult of the Greek god Dionysus. The rituals in his honor included orgies, the sacrifice of animals, excessive wine-drinking and trance dancing which continued until the dancers collapsed with exhaustion.

Judaism had no problem with dance being connected to worship. Psalm 150 for example:- "Praise ye the Lord... Praise him with the timbrel and dance". King David is said to have whirled before the Ark of the Covenant. In the Talmud dancing is described as being the principal function of angels.

Dance was part of the service in the early Christian church. It took place in the choir and was led by the bishop. Today there are Christian churches who are reintroducing dance sometimes in a very self-conscious style.

Sacred Dance can in itself be therapeutic.

The Shakers, who were an offshoot of the Quakers were brought to America from England in 1774 by Ann Lee. A vision had told her that sexual intercourse was the source of mankinds's troubles. She established a closed community which practised self-sufficiency and communal ownership of all possessions. The Shakers had a deep understanding of the aesthetic of simplicity which showed itself in all aspects of their lives.

Shaker dances were held in the evening. Men and women entered the hall separately. They marched in on tip-toe and formed two rows facing each other about five feet apart.Men were on the right with the women on the left. The Chief Elder stood in the middle and gave a five minute address. He concluded by saying "Go forth, old men, young men and maidens and worship God with all your might in the dance". Men and women did not intermingle. There were pauses to see if anyone had received "a gift". Then two of the sisters would start whirling like tops with their eyes shut. They continued whirling for about 15 minutes when they stopped suddenly and sat down again.

There are no longer any viable Shaker communities and the dances have therefore died out. A certain number of their hymns, however, continue to be sung in various other churches.

An ancient Sacred Dance tradition continues to this day in Turkey, the Middle East and North Africa. The Sufis (who represent the mystical side of Islam) have whirling dances. In Turkey the tradition traces back to Celaleddin Mevlana Rumi who died in 1273. His son organized his followers into the brotherhood of whirling dervishes now known as the Mevlevi.

When Ataturk gained political power in the early years of the twentieth century he abolished the dervish orders and turned the monasteries into museums. They were revived in 1957.

The significance of the dervish dance is connected to the sun, the moon and the revolving stars. The worshippers wear clothing which has symbolic meaning. The tall conical felt hats signify the tombstones and therefore the death of the dancers egos. The white robes represent the shrouds around their egos. The flowing black cloaks symbolize the dancers being trapped in worldly tombs.At the beginning of the ceremony the cloaks are removed to symbolize the worshippers deliverance from the cares and attachments of this world.

The dance is accompanied by a reed flute. After a series of rituals the worshippers reach a point where they are all simultaneously whirling with their right hands held palm up to receive the blessings of heaven. They hold their left hands palm down to transfer the blessings to earth.

Although non-participants are allowed to view the ceremony the dances remain true Sacred Dances for those taking part and for many of those watching. Dervish music should never be used for secular purposes, especially not to accompany oriental dance. The chants are prayers and should be respected as such.

Today Africa remains rich in the area of traditional Sacred Dance. The Yoruba of Western Nigeria have many traditions of deities dancing. Some are said to be able to dance on one leg. Sango (who is associated with thunder) consulted Orunmila (who is associated with divination and wisdom) as to how he could acquire permanent wealth. Orunmila's advice was for Sango to acquire a splendid outfit onto which he should sew as many cuaris as he possibly could. Cauris were once used as currency and are thus a sign of wealth. People seeing Sango so splendidly dressed would assume that he was wealthy. Orunmila told Sango that he should dance around wearing this outfit. The outcome was that through dancing and asking for alms Sango became very rich. Sango priests carry axes when in company or on parade. Sango priests wear feminine hairstyles, beads around the neck and earrings on festive occasions. The dances for Sango are very fast and athletic. All the deities have their associated dances. To be unable to dance is to be unable to worship properly.

In Ghana I have seen young men dancing in trance and slashing at themselves with razor sharp cutlasses. The ferocious slashing never broke the skin or even left a mark. I have also witnessed Sacred Dances to the deities of the Thunder Pantheon. Here older female cult members wandered among the crowds making suggestive gestures with a wooden phallus. The performance was supposed to be amusing and it was. There were also conjurers on hand changing sand to powdered white chalk. Anyone could come and watch the dances if they showed the proper respect to the deity. This meant that both men and women had to be bareheaded. The men had to tie their cloths around the waist so that they were bare-chested and women had to tie their cloths under the armpits.

West African Sacred Dances tend to be danced outdoors often at night. The dancers come onto the circular dance area and leave it as they see fit. They may all be dancing the same steps but each dancer expresses them in his or her own way. Everyone dances as a group but has their own "space" within it. The dancer and the choreographer are one and the same person.

Africa stands in grave danger of losing its Sacred Dances due to the dwindling number of people adhering to the traditional religions. Only cult members may dance the Sacred Dances. Members of Christian churches and Followers of Islam have always not unsurprisingly been expressly forbidden to take part in any Sacred Dances and the number of converts is increasing. Some Christian churches allow a certain amount of drumming and dancing during services. Both the drumming and dancing have little "life force" or visual and aural interest. Musicians are beginning to create new genuinely african Sacred Songs for the church. If anyone knows of choreographers working to create authentic african contemporary Sacred Dance I would love to hear about it.

The cults need younger members. If they fail to materialize then the Sacred Dances will not evolve within their true context. The dances will either die out or become shadows of themselves as social dances danced by all and sundry simply for pleasure.

I have written very little indeed about the music which is of equal importance to the dance. The music is a subject in itself. If you are interested in African Rhythms I suggest that you try and get hold of "An Approach to African Rhythm" by Dr Seth Cudjoe published by the Institute of African Studies, University of Ghana, Legon.

The Sacred Dances of Bali, Indonesia are a beautiful prayer made manifest. Wali are Sacred Dances indispensably connected with rituals of the same name. They take place on the first day of a ritual, in the inner courtyard of the temple.

Sanghyang Dedari and Sanghyang Jaran are both Sacred Dances. I witnessed Sanghyang Dedari in which two little girls danced in a trance mirroring each others movements. Their eyes were wide open but they were said to see nothing. At the conclusion of the dance they were brought out of trance by a white-clad priest who sprinkled holy water on them.

Sanghyang Jaran is a very spectacular dance in which A young man wears a belt attached to which is a horse's head woven from coconut fronds. This young man was put into trance by a priest. He then ran prancing like a horse into a fire of coconut husks.After which he stood still for a while before jumping around Next he moved out of the fire and the burning husks were raked together before once again the young man danced into the fire. The third time he did this he actually sat in the embers and rolled around. At some crucial point, not identifiable to those watching, the young dancer was pulled clear and helped out of his trance.

The Balinese are devout Hindus and the Sacred Dance tradition is treasured, appreciated and is still very much a part of every ones lives.

Let us hope, that in the parts of the world where there is still genuine Sacred Dance it will not degenerate into a spectacle where we are aiming to influence an audience rather than the Spiritual World.

If you have any comments or questions I shall be delighted to hear from you. You can contact me via my website.




Read Also About Belly Dance

Belly Dance

How to Belly Dance
By Yasir Wazir

General information:

Many believe that belly dancing is an oldest form of dances taking origin from India to the Middle-East countries. It is a type of dance usually performed, when a woman is being prepared for her marriage. It is usually danced barefooted. Belly dance can be called as a Western term being used for a traditional Arab dance form. In Arabic language, it is known as "raqs sharqi," (oriental dance), or "raqs baladi," meaning dance of country. In Greece, it is called as "tsiftetelli." Raqs baladi is performed by both men and women of any age group for fun and celebration. Raqs sharqi, popular in America is also performed by both men and women.

Costumes:

The costumes used in belly dancing are quite colorful. In early days, the use of jewelry especially the belt of coins was thought to be a symbol of wealth. Other accessories used include the swords, snakes, and huge flaming candles. In Arabic, the costume used for this dance is called as "bedlah," meaning suit, which was adopted by Egyptian dancers in 1930s, later spreading to the rest of the countries.

The bedlah costume consists of a fitted top, (with a fringe of beads/coins), a fitted hip belt, (also with a fringe of beads/coins), and a skirt (straight or circular). In the western world, "veil" is used which is a 3.5-4 yard fabric, prominating the arm movements throughout the dance. In Egypt, the dancers normally use full beaded dresses, designed according to the type of dancing. This type of costume is especially meant for folk dancing and is popular among the European and American countries. Generally, the costume in belly dancing varies with the dance style. The cabaret costume in belly dance usually consists of a hip belt, bra, skirt, with one or more veils. Other jewelry accessories like neck bands, arm coverings, face veils and shoes are considered as optional for the dancers.

Popularity:

It is believed that the belly dancing in America got popularity in about 1893, when for the first time, famous dancer little Egypt performed his dance in Chicago World's Fair. Since 19th century, the belly dancing got much popularity across the U.S and thus whole world. Many belly dance shows are organized all across the world.

History:

The exact origin of belly dance history is debatable.The history of Belly dancing is very old. The accurate information about belly dancing is not available, but there is a mixture of speculations about its history. Belly dancing is a mixture of various cultures including Lebanon, Egypt, Arabic Gulf, Turkey and North Africa. Morroco is thought to have several oral references for its origin, but lacking the fact of true origin of the dance. Some suggest Roma to be its origin, who are thought to spred the dance while traveling, picking up the dance and spreading it around.

Wherever is the origin, this dance has a long and old history in the Middle-East countries. The Middle-East countries have two popular belly dance styles as the "city dance," (including stage, cabaret), and the "country dance," (the regional folk dances), while the western countries use an umbrella form of belly dance, famous for the hip movements. The rhythm used in belly dancing, also varies from one area to the other.

Technique:

Most of the basic steps and movements in belly dance are circular in motion, usually confined to one part of the body. Like, the movements made by hips would be a "hip circle," and the use of rib-cage will be called as a" chest circle."

Raqs Sharqi: In raqs sharqi, the main focus lies on the hip and pelvic area. Raqs sharqi or "oriental dance, is one of the oldest dance forms in the world. The most important body part used in this style is the "hips." Although this dance is thought to be a female's dance, but men also do perform this dance.

Egyptian style Raqs Sharki: In Egyptian style, although the basic steps remain the same, there is incorporation of ballet into raqs sharqi. In Egypt, there are three main forms of the dance being popular, Baladi, Sha'abi, Sharqi.

Turkish style: Turkish belly dance often called as"tsiftetelli," is more a form of wedding folk music, not actually connected to oriental dancing. Turkish dancers are famous to be more energetic, using finger cymbals known as "zils."

Western: Belly dance in Western world gained popularity in 1893, when "Little Egypt," performed her dance at the World's Fair. The classical Raqs sharqi is still popular in the western world; many dancers have created other forms known as "American Tribal dance."

United States: The popularity of belly dance in the United States dates back to 1950-1960, when the Americans became familiarized with belly dancing. Initially, the dance was performed by the Turkish and Greek dancers, but later on Americans also started learning it. Their interest in belly dancing gave rise to many styles, one of which is the "American -Tribal belly dance."

Male belly dancing: The role of men in belly dancing is debatable. The trend of male performers in this dance started in 60s-70s, by performers in the United-States.

Styles: There are two main categories of belly dancing being practiced today;

· Western belly dance.
· Eastern belly dance.

Western belly dance styles: Following are the few Western belly dance styles practiced:

1. Classic American: This is the original American belly style also called as "cabaret" or" night club" dance. It differs from the Eastern belly style in that; it has more freedom of movements, with more use of veils, props and zills. It has evolved new steps and concepts, thus giving rise to a Modern American belly style with more advanced moves.

2. Tribal: Tribal belly dance, which started in about 1960s, is a dance style performed by a group of dancers. In this style, the veil work is not used to an extent as in American style; however there is more use of finger cymbals and swords.

3. Gypsy: This style of belly dance is the interpretation of the folk dance of the "Gypsy," originating from Spain, Turkey and Egypt. The dance is famous for its energy and passion, based on folk steps.

4. Spiritual: This dance style is believed to have a connection with the goddess of ancient times. In this style of belly dance, props are commonly used.

5. Fusion: Fusion belly dance consists of both the belly dance movements and the steps derived from outside.

6. Fitness: This style of belly dance is thought to be popular since 1970s. It is not an artistic dance, but usually done for exercise purposes. It has a wide variety of moves including, aerobic techniques, sit-ups etc.

Eastern belly dance styles:

1. Egyptian (raqs sharqi): Egyptian or "oriental dance," uses belly dance moves which are more artistic and describe emotional interpretation of the music into dance style. These dancers rarely use veil or floor work.

2. Turkish (Oriyantal Dansi): Turkish style of belly dancing is thought to be bolder with use of finger cymbals. Floor work is also quite common in this style, with use of props as well.

3. Lebanese: It is one of the ancient forms of belly dance, which is thought to be a mixture of both the Turkish and Egyptian belly dance. It is generally considered to be more energetic, but softer at the same time. In this style, use of props and finger cymbals is common.

4. East-Indian: It is believed, that the Romani people started originating the belly dance moves in India long ago. Bollywood belly dancing is a fusion of core belly dance moves, with classical Indian dance. As it contains majority of the non-belly moves, so it is not an authentic belly dance.

Core moves in belly dancing:

Belly dance steps and moves: It is said that there are 12 basic belly dance steps and moves. By practicing these 12 basic steps, one can become master of belly dancing.

a. Basic Hip moves: There are 3 basic hip movements usually performed by the belly dancers. For performing these three hip movements, a good posture is required by the dancers. Stand on your feet with slightly apart from each other, and distribute your weight between two feet. Slightly bend your knees. Shoulders are in a relaxed position, with the rib cage slightly moved up. Hold your arms in a comfortable position.

1. Hip Twist: In standing position, isolate and twist the right hip forward, and the left hip will swift back.
2. Up and Down hips: Standing in the same posture, right hip bone is moved upward and then down and vice versa. The leg muscles help to pull the knees up and down, so the knees should be kept relaxed.
3. Hip Thrust: Standing in the basic position, thrust the right hip to the side and slightly up. The feet are kept flat.

b. Rolling Hip moves:

There are three basic hip rolling moves.

1. Hip figure 8's:

There are 2 basic figure 8 hip moves.

Back to forward version: A large figure 8 is painted on the floor and the dancer stands in the middle of it, with one circle of 8 on one side of the dancer and the other circle of 8 on the other side. First isolate your hips, and twist the right hip back, slide it to the side and thus twist it forward. Now, the left hip is moved in the same manner, as upon completion of one side of hip, the other hip is automatically positioned for the same movement.

Forward to back version: For a forward to back, the direction of figure 8 is reversed. Isolating the hips and twisting the right hip forward, sliding it to a side and then twisting it back.

Down-Up version: Push your right hip down, slide it to a side, lift up and then pull it back to its starting position.

Up-Down version: Reverse the direction of the hip move as in down-up version to make it up-down one.

Hip circles: In this type of belly dance, hips are used to draw from small-medium sized circles. Isolate the hips, sliding them to the right side; push them back and to left side; pushing them forward and to the right side to complete a circle.

Vertical hip circles: A vertical belly dance is also called as "bicycle hips." Isolating the hips, lift the right hip up, roll forward, push down, push back and then up to the starting point, tracing a circle which is vertical to the floor. All the circular hip movements in belly dance can either be done in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. Are you ready to learn?