Short Descriptions of the different Dance Styles we currently do or will be doing here at KCL Dance Soc

Ballet

Classical Ballet, little introduction is needed. We have two classes, at beginner and intermediate level. Often done to pop music, the beginner class is suitable for absolute newbies or people wishing to refresh what they have learnt in childhood. The intermediate class is suitable for those who are already comfortable with ballet and pointe work. Classes follow ISTD, RAD or Cecchetti technique and thus take a more classical approach than beginners level.

Contemporary

Influenced by classical ballet and modern dance, this form of dance complements ballet yet allows for a more flexible range of movements. Strategically placed between the beginner’s and intermediate ballet class, this allows people who only wish to do both contemporary and either one of the ballet classes to not have to wait around between classes.

Salsa*

The hottest dance in the social dancing nights, there are already many Latin/Cuban nightclubs around in London (and rapidly growing!). With roots in Cuban culture and music, this dance is simple and versatile. We teach absolute beginners to intermediate level, as well as the popular Salsa Rueda (”wheel” in Spanish), where swapping partners is an integral part of the dance. If you already know Salsa, come meet like-minded people and find some new partners!

Burlesque

Burlesque dancing is an unusual performance art which treads a fine line between daring and inappropriate. But there’s no strippers’ pole here; attitude and confidence is what makes it sexy! No matter what your body type, learn to be confident with your body and have a laugh in this fun and playful class.

Classical Jazz

“There’s no business like showbusiness!”
If you have been fortunate enough to see shows such as Chicago or Guys and Dolls, you’ll be familiarised with this type of dance! Classical jazz is a common form of dance used in Musical Theatre as well as in other sectors of performing arts. The type of dance is energetic and fun, involves high range of technique, similar to that of Ballet and Modern. Jazz gives you the chance to master some unique moves, fancy footwork, big leaps and quick turns.

Street Dance

A combination of several styles such as Modern and Hip Hop as well as having some influences in Street Jazz and Funk. This ever evolving style tests the performers rythmn, skill, co-ordination and performance skills to get the audience involved and pumped up.

Hip-Hop

A more demanding class than Street Dance, this class is usually done to hip hop music and although similar in style to Street Dance has such influences such as Breakin’ and House, this style focuses mainly on technique and sharpness in movement, usually utilizing the sounds and lyrics in the music.

Tap

Tap is a technical dance blending rhythmic patterns and timely beats, using taps (metal plates) on the soles of the feet. Originally made famous in the early 1930s by the likes of Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, tap reflects a unique combination of Jazz with rhythmic beats.

Ballroom*

You already know how to walk, and you’re probably able to bop your head to music? That’s all you need to know to be able to ballroom dance! Traditionally an old men’s dance, ballroom dancing has recently experienced a resurgence in interest, with the advent of DanceSport and competitive dancing on TV, such as ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. There are five different styles of Standard Ballroom Dances you can learn, which are: Waltz, Quickstep, Tango, Foxtrot, and Viennese Waltz.

Latin*

The sexy counterpart to Standard Ballroom, Latin styles are danced to traditional or modern Latin American music. These dances have so much character; you can feel the chemistry between the dancers! Also a part of DanceSport, the five styles are: Chachacha, Jive, Samba, Rumba, and Paso Doble.

*These forms of dance involve partner work, but don’t worry about bringing one; you’re sure to find one in the class!