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Do we still practice social dancing today?

From the 16th century until today

· French Etiquette

Waltz, swing, salsa, rock’n’roll… do you think those types of dancing are a thing of the past ?

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Well… you might be surprised. Although they might not be as commonly seen as during the 16th century, they still bring joy to many people today. Let’s see how !

The Origins

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Ballroom, the general name given to social dancing, is a set of partner dances that are enjoyed socially and competitively around the world.

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Ballroom, also called « danse de salon » in French, takes its origins during the French and Italian Renaissance period (15th-16th centuries).

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This kind of dancing was considered the one for the privileged men and women, opposing folk dancing for the lower classes, although boundaries between genres were often blurred.

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One of the most popular ballroom dance back then was the menuet, which was danced by the King of France Louis XIV at the court of Versailles.

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Another major influence in ballroom was the waltz, a dance where the dancers held each other closely, often seen in Austria then in England since the 18th century.

Social dancing today

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Today, ballroom is not reserved to the privileged nor to the most formal events and is today still practiced all around the world.

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Original ballroom styles such as waltz have been since then completed by swing, rock’n’roll and other latin styles such as tango, salsa or cha-cha.

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These modern styles are the most popular social dances today, practised in dance schools, gala parties or weddings around the world.

A few etiquette tips

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At a social event where music is played and a floor is available for dancers, it might be your time to shine – if you do know a few dance steps. Here are a few things to keep it mind.

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  • Both men and women can ask others to dance. Just extend a hand and ask with a smile.
  • If you don’t feel like dancing, decline politely.
  • Dance at your partner’s level – make them feel and look good.
  • Don’t blame your partner for a wrong move – laugh about it and move on.
  • Thank your partner for the dance at the end of the song and escort off the dancefloor.

BONUS

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You are in Suzhou and are interested in learning modern dancing ?

We recommend Times Dance :

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Founded in 2018 by Matthieu Ventelon, Hedonia is the first institution in China combining professional Wine and Etiquette expertise in the same training offer.

Find more information on our website : http://en.hedonia.cn