In the world of dancesport (particularly in the US) there are four categories of competitive dance: International Latin, American Rhythm, International Standard, American Smooth. The American styles resemble the international ones, rhythm to latin and smooth to standard. However, often have different timings, choreography and rules about hold. At Dance Fever, particularly in the children's classes, we primarily focus on the international styles. Both Latin and Standard consist of five dances each which are described below.

International Standard

(Slow) Waltz is the dance most often associated with the word Ballroom. It is a slow gliding dance done to a 1-2-3 beat with characteristic rise and fall action. It is a dance of elegance and romance. The simplicity of its basic box step makes it an ideal way to introduce children into the world of Ballroom. Another important element of the Waltz, as well as other standard dances is the heel lead when stepping forward. As in all Standard dances, the couple must maintain a closed hold and may not break the hold at any time.

Tango is the most passionate of the Standard dances. Its roots are Spanish. Unlike the Waltz, it does not have a rise and fall and should be danced with flexed knees. Sharp movements define this dance as well as quick head snaps. These quick sharp movements are called staccato. This dance is often confused with the Argentinean Tango that is danced at milongas (all night tango parties in Argentina), however that form is not danced in competition.

Foxtrot is a very smooth dance characterized by long flowing movements across the floor. Unlike the Tango, it contains no sharp movements. It is danced to a timing of slow quick quick slow. It was introduced to most of the world in 1913 by a man name Harry Fox. It is usually danced to vocal big band music. It is a technically demanding dance that is not usually taught to beginners.

Viennese Waltz was popularized in the 17th and 18th century in the ballroom of Europe, most notably Vienna. It is danced to a 1-2-3, 1-2-3 beat with an accentuation on the 1. It is a much faster dance than Waltz. The most famous composer of Viennese Waltz music is Johann Strauss.

Quickstep is the fastest of the standard dances and is always dance last in competition. Danced to a slow-quick-quick rhythm, it is a high intensity dance. Good dancers create the illusion of flying across the dance floor during the quickstep. Because of its happy and light mood it is also a favorite dance for children. The Charleston is often an important aspect of this dance.

International Latin

Cha-Cha is a "cheeky" flirtatious dance with Cuban origins. It is danced to a 2-3-4 and 1, or 2-3 cha-cha-cha beat. It is characterized by sharp movements of the legs and hips with the man seemingly chasing the lady; it often has a cat and mouse feel to it. It is a fun dance and one of the first taught to small children.

Samba is based on the dances of the Brazilian Carnival, with a background African drum beat. It is fast paced and very fun with catchy rhythmical music. It has two basic beats with short partial beats in between that can make choreography more exciting (1-and-a-2). It has a characteristic bounce, during which the knees bend, and hips come forward and then the legs straighten as the hips go back. Because of its lively and cheerful feel it is also a children's favorite.

Rumba is the dance of passion and love. Like the Cha-Cha it also has Cuban origins and is also danced to a 2-3-4 and 1 beat. It is slow and rhythmic. Often filled with a quick step, followed by a long stretch, the rumba is truly the woman's dance. She must show her femininity to seduce the man, who through his masculinity shows off the lady. The most distinctive element of the rumba is the strong hip action and figure 8s. Without a strong connection, this dance is not believable. While it is danced by children at competitions, its true flavor can only be portrayed by older Youth or Adult couples.

Paso Doble in sharp contrast to the rumba, is the Man's dance. It is the dance of the bullfight where the man is the toreador and the woman his cape (or in another interpretation, the bull). It tells a story of passion, fire and male dominance. Shaping is of utmost importance in this dance and the hips should be thrust forward for the majority of the music. The dance is based on an 8-count. However, it is complicated by changes in the 8 beat throughout the 3 highlights. It is the only dance that continues through a whole song of music and is usually the last dance taught to advanced couples, because of the difficulty in maintaining choreography on beat with specific counts. It also has roots in the Spanish Flamenco dance of the Gypsies.

Jive, the dance always danced last at competitions is the fastest of the latin dances. It is influenced by Swing and Rock & Roll and originated Harlem (NY) in the 20's-40's. Some of it, is also has a flair of African dance. Its basic step is the "rock step - triple step - triple step" and it is danced to a 5-6-7-8 beat. It is a very high energy dance and should be fun, filled with laughs and smiles. For these characteristics it is again enormously popular among young children.

In addition to these competitive dances, we teach our youngest children fun dances such as the disco. In adult classes, you will also encounter what we refer to in the dance world as "social dances". These dances often have easier steps and encourage freer body movements. Some common and popular social dances are Salsa, Merengue and the Hustle. Additionally, the popularity of these dances has given rise to special Salsa/Latin nights at local dance clubs. So whether your child wants to compete at the most prestigious local competitions or you are looking to relax after work, we are sure to have the class for you.