CHAPTER I

“Dance is your pulse, your hearth beat. It’s the rhythm of your life. It’s the expression in time
and movement, in happiness, joy, sadness and envy”
- Jaques D’ Ambroise
INTRODUCTION TO DANCE RHYTHM
Dance rhythm refers to the pattern of beats and accents in music or movement that creates the
timing and flow essential to dance. It is the heartbeat of dance, providing structure and coherence to
the choreography and allowing dancers to synchronize their movements with the music and with each
other.
Rhythm is not merely following the beat; it also involves adding personal style and interpretation to
movements, which enhances expression and storytelling in dance.
Rhythm organizes the dance by creating a musicality and coordination that makes the performance
visually pleasing and emotionally engaging. It helps dancers convey emotions and narratives, making
rhythm a fundamental element in both the technical and artistic aspects of dance.

PHASES OF DANCE
A well-structured dance program is typically organized into several key phases, each designed
to build upon the previous one and ensure comprehensive development in dance skills, creativity, and
performance. The phases may vary slightly depending on the curriculum or institution, but the following
structure is widely recognized.

Phase Key Focus Areas

Introduction/Exploration Creativity, basic movements, improvisation

Development Technical skills, strength, flexibility, choreography

Refinement Advanced skills, performance, feedback

Creation/Choreography Advanced skills, performance, feedback

Performance/Professional Rehearsals, public performance, career exploration

PHASES OF THE DANCE

1. Creative Rhythms

Are sometimes called fundamental rhythms or natural dances. A creative rhythm is an end product of
exploration and improvisation of movements as children learn to move the parts of their body and to
use them as instruments of expression.

2. Folk/ Ethnic dance

Is a cultural art form handed down from generation to generations. It communicates the customs,
beliefs, rituals, and occupations of the people of a region or country. Folk dancing belongs to the
people. It emanates from them. Ethnic tribes have their specific tribal art forms originated and danced
by the people of the tribe.

Examples of folk dances are the rural and country dances, jotas, mazurkas, pandanggos, among
others with foreign influence.

Examples of ethnic dances are the dances of the mountain peoples of the Cordilleras, dances of
the ethnic groups in the Cagayan Valley Region and the ethnic dances in the Mindanao Regions.

3. Social and Ballroom Dance

The setting of the social and ballroom dance is a social gathering with the more formal atmosphere
than the simple and informal parties in which the recreational dances are the usual forms. Social and
ballroom dancing are generally held in the evenings. The participants are usually in formal attire.

4. Recreational Dance

Includes dance mixers, square dance round and couple dances. Many of these dances have simple
patterns and combinations of walking steps, polka step and the waltz step. The setting is usually
informal gatherings and parties, reunions etc.

5. Creative Dance

Is the highest form of dance. It is the end-product of exploration and improvisation of movements as
the dancer or the choreographer expresses his feelings or emotions, ideas, and interpretations. This is
a dance with a definite form, a beginning and an ending. The principles of art form are all observed in
the composition of the dance.

Examples of creative dance are ballet, jazz, and modern or contemporary dance

FORMATIONS COMMONLY USED IN RHYTHMIC ACTIVITITIES.

Rhythmic activities, including dance and group movement exercises, utilize a variety of
formations to organize participants, enhance visual appeal, and facilitate coordination. These
formations are essential for structuring group performances and ensuring smooth transitions between
movements.

Formation Type Description

Dancers form a circle, facing inward, outward, clockwise,

Single Circle counterclockwise, or toward partners.

Two concentric circles, often with partners facing each other or moving in
Double Circle opposite directions.

Four couples form a square, each couple on one side or corner of an

Square/Quadrille imaginary square.

Semi-circle/Half Moon Dancers form a curved line or arc, often used for group presentations.

Two lines of dancers facing each other or the audience, commonly used
Double Lines in folk and social dances.

Long Open Formation Dancers form two long lines, sometimes with partners facing each other.

Contra Formation One line of boys facing a line of girls, or two lines facing each other.

Free/Scattered Dancers move freely or stand anywhere, individually or in couples.

Columns/Groups in
Lines Dancers stand one behind the other, as in a conga line or group columns.

CHAPTER II
FOLKDANCE
 Folk dances are traditional dances of the country which evolved naturally and spontaneously in
connection with everyday activities and experiences of the people who developed them.
 Folk dancing is the heartbeat of the people and the outburst of people’s feeling.
TYPES OF FOLK DANCE

 National – found throughout the islands with little or no modification

Example: Rigodon, Carinosa, Jota, Balitaw, Pandaggo
 Local – found in a certain locality
Example:Tinikling – Leyte, Maglalatik – Binyang; Subli – Batangas; Biniganbigat – Abra

There are five fundamental or basic positions in dance, especially in classical ballet, which involve
specific placements of the feet and arms. Mastery of these positions is essential as they form the
foundation for most dance movements and techniques.

1st Position
Arm Placement - Arms rounded in front of the chest, fingertips
nearly touching, forming a soft circle.

Feet Position - Heels together, toes turned outward forming a "V" shape (about 45 degrees apart).

2nd Position

Arm Placement - Arms extended out to the sides, palms facing

upward, and held at shoulder height.

Feet Position - Feet apart about shoulder-width or a pace distance, toes

turned outward.

3rd Position
Arm Placement – One arm is raised overhead, while the other is
extended to the side (like in 2nd position).
Feet Position - One foot placed so the heel touches the arch (instep) of
the other foot.

4th Position
Arm Placement - One arm raised overhead, the other arm rounded in
front of the chest.

Feet Position - One foot placed about a foot's length in front of the
other, with heels aligned.

5th Position
Arm Placement - Both arms rounded overhead, forming a tall oval
shape.

Feet Position - Heels together, toes turned outward forming a "V"

shape (about 45 degrees apart).

These positions emphasize external rotation of the legs (turnout) and proper arm carriage, which are
crucial for balance, posture, and aesthetics in dance. They serve as starting and ending points for
many dance steps and movements. Dancers develop coordination, alignment, and control.

TRADITIONAL FOLK DANCE STEPS IN 2/4 TIME SIGNATURE

A. Note Pattern = 1 measure Count: 1 2

DANCE STEPS STEP PATTERN

Touch Step Point R (fwd./swd. /bwrd); close R to L

Bleking Step Heels place R (fwd./swd.) close L to R

Close Step Step R (any direction); close L to R

Cross Step Step R, cross and step L, across R

Hop Step Step R (any direction); hop on R

Brush Step Step R (any direction); brush L

Slide Step Slide R (swd./ fwd.); close L to R

Swing Step Step R (swd./ fwd.); swing L across R

B. Note Pattern = 1 measure Count: 1 and 2

DANCE STEPS STEP PATTERN

Change Step Step R (any direction); close L to R step R
Cross Change Step Cross and step R across L; close L to R; step R
across L.
Contragaza Leap R to swd. R; cross and step L across R; step
R.
Habanera Step Step R (any direction); close L to R; step R in
place.
TRADITIONAL FOLK DANCE STEPS IN 3/4 TIME SIGNATURE

C. Note Pattern = 1 measure Count: 1 2 3

Dance Steps Step Pattern

Waltz step Step R (fwd./swd./bwrd.); close L to R in place
Cross waltz Cross-step R cross L; close L to R; step R in place
Waltz balance Step R (swd./fwd.) close L to R; and raise both heels, heels
down.
Mazurka Slide R cut (displace) R with L; and hop swing R backward in
front of L
Redoba Slide R (diagonal fwd.) cut R with L cut L with R
Step-swing-hop Step R (any direction) swing L across R in front; hop on R
Step-brush-swing-hop Step R (f wd./ swd.) brush and swing fwd. hop R

D. Note Pattern = 1 measure Count: 1 2 3

Dance Steps Step Pattern

Touch step Point R (fwd./swd./bwrd.); close R to L
Bleking step Heels place R (fwd./ swd.) close L to R
Close step Step R (any direction); close L to R
Cross Step Step R, cross and step L, across R
Hop step Step R (any direction); hop on R
Brush Step Step R (any direction) brush L
Slide step Slide R (swd./fwd); L to R
Swing step Step R (swd./ fwd.); swing L to R

E. Note Pattern = 1 measure Count: 1-2 3 1 2-3

Dance Steps Step Pattern

Sway balance with a point Step R (diagonally fwd); cross step L across R;
 step R bwrd.; point L in front
Sway balance with a raise Step R (diagonally fwd.); cross-step across R;
step R bwrd; raise and swing L in front
Sway balance with a brush Step R (diagonally fwd.); cross- step L across R;
step R bwrd; brush L fwd.
Sway balance with a hop Step R (diagonally fwd.) cross- step L across R;
step R bwrd; hop on R
Sway balance with a close Step R (diagonally fwd.); cross- step L across R;
Step R bwrd. close L to R
Engaño with a close Step R swd; cross-step L across R; step R swd;
close L to R

CHAPTER III
The Basic Natural Movements & Rhythmic Fundamentals
Basic Natural Movements
Basic natural movements in dance are the fundamental human movements that form the foundation of
all dance actions. They are classified into two main categories:
1. Locomotor Movements
These involve moving the body from one place to another, usually with the feet as the base of
movement. Common locomotor movements include:
 Walking: Moving at a moderate pace, lifting one foot after the other.
 Running: Faster movement with both feet off the ground momentarily.
 Jumping: Taking off from one or both feet and landing on both feet.
 Hopping: Taking off and landing on the same foot.
 Skipping: A combination of step and hop with alternating feet.
 Leaping: Springing from one foot and landing on the other.
 Galloping: Moving forward or sideways with one foot leading.
 Sliding: Gliding a foot along the floor without lifting it.
  Crawling and Rolling: Moving close to the ground using hands and knees or rolling the body.
2. Non-Locomotor Movements (Axial Movements)
These movements happen without changing the body's location; the base remains fixed (standing,
sitting, kneeling, or lying). Examples include:
 Stretching: Extending parts of the body.
 Bending/Flexion: Decreasing the angle between body parts at a joint.
 Twisting/Turning: Rotating parts of the body around an axis.
 Swinging: Moving a body part rhythmically back and forth or side to side.
 Rising: Lifting the body or body parts upward.
 Shaking/Vibratory Movements: Rapid, small movements or tremors.
 Balancing and Swaying: Controlled shifts of weight or smooth pendular movements.
Dance is composed of sequences of these movements interspersed with pauses or stillness, allowing
for expression and rhythm.

Rhythmic Fundamentals
In the field of dance, there are fundamental knowledge and rhythmic skills considered important for
proficiency and efficiency in bodily movements.

A. Elements of Rhythm
All movements are affected by the elements of rhythm. These elements which should be
learned and understood in the relation to dance underlying beat; measure; rhythmic pattern;
tempo accent; phrasing; and intensity.

1. Underlying Beat or Pulse Beat – is the steady continuous sound that is heard or felt
throughout any rhythmical sequence.
2. Measure – refers to the identical grouping of underlying beats. This group of notes is
between two bar lines.
3. Rhythmic Pattern – is a definite grouping of sounds or beats related to the underlying
beats.
4. Phrasing – musical phrase is a group of measures that gives the feeling of unity.
5. Accent – is the force or emphasis given to any one beat in a series of pulse beats in a
measure.
6. Tempo – is the rate of speed of movement, music or accompaniment.
7. Intensity – is the quality of the movement or music. It refers to the dynamis or force, such
as heavy and light.
 CHAPTER IV
Cheer Dancing: Definition and Benefits
BRIEF HISTORY:
Cheer dancing, often synonymous with cheerleading,
originated in the United States with roots tracing back
to the 1860s in Great Britain where students began
chanting and cheering for their favorite athletes. The
concept crossed to the US, where the first
intercollegiate football game in 1869 between
Princeton and Rutgers featured crowd cheers, marking
the beginnings of organized cheer culture.
The formal inception of cheerleading as an organized
activity occurred on November 2, 1898, at the University of Minnesota. A student named Johnny
Campbell became the first official cheerleader by leading a crowd in a coordinated cheer, stepping out
from the audience to energize and unify supporters. This event is widely celebrated as the birthday of
cheerleading.
Originally, cheerleading was an all-male activity with early cheers rooted in collegiate football games.
The University of Minnesota organized the first cheer fraternity (Gamma Sigma) in 1903, using
megaphones to amplify cheers. Female participation began in the 1920s; women introduced dance
and gymnastics elements, and by the 1940s, females largely led cheer squads with routines
incorporating pom-poms and choreographed dance that gave cheerleading its distinct style.
Throughout the mid-20th century, cheerleading evolved from sideline support to a competitive sport.
Significant developments include the founding of the National Cheerleaders Association in 1948 by
Lawrence Herkimer, who also helped coordinate cheer camps to teach technique and routine
innovation. Title IX legislation in 1972 further propelled female involvement by ensuring gender equity
in school sports, which included cheerleading as a competitive discipline.
Modern cheer dance routines combine various elements such as chants, motions, jumps, stunts, and
tumbling, requiring precision and athletic skill, evolving into a standalone sport with competitions widely
held today
Definition:
Cheer dancing is a dynamic, team-based performance sport that combines dance, gymnastics, stunts,
and rhythmic cheers to energize audiences and support sports teams. It involves choreographed
routines featuring jumps, tumbling, synchronized dance moves, and expressive motions often
performed with props like pom-poms.
Benefits:
 Physical Fitness: Builds muscular strength, endurance, flexibility, balance, and coordination by
engaging all major muscle groups through tumbling, stunting, and dance.
 Cardiovascular Health: Acts as an effective cardio workout improving heart and lung function.
 Mental and Emotional: Boosts confidence, discipline, teamwork, leadership skills, and positive
mood through social interaction and performance.
 Skill Development: Enhances dance skills, gymnastics abilities, rhythm, musicality, and
performance presence.
Elements of Choreographed Cheer Dance
1. Cheer Motions: Sharp, precise arm and hand movements forming the foundation of cheer
routines (e.g., high V, low V, T motions).
2. Dance Steps: Incorporation of various dance styles such as hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary to
add flair and rhythm.
3. Tumbling and Stunts: Acrobatics including flips, jumps, lifts, and pyramids that require
strength and coordination.
4. Chants and Cheers: Vocal components that engage the crowd and unify the team’s energy.
5. Synchronization: Precise timing and coordination among team members to perform moves in
unison.
6. Facial Expressions and Energy: Expressiveness through smiles and enthusiasm to captivate
the audience.

Classification of Cheer Dance Positions and Techniques

 Position Type Description & Technique

Feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly

bent, weight balanced; arms often at sides or
Ready/Stance in cheer motion ready to move. Focus on
Position alertness and stability.

Arms raised above the head in a “V” shape,

elbows slightly bent, fingers together. Used
High V Position to create sharp, energetic lines.

Arms extended downward and outward in a

“V” shape, shoulders down and back, fingers
Low V Position together. Emphasizes strong posture.

Arms extended straight out to the sides at

shoulder height, forming a “T.” Shoulders
T Position relaxed, fingers together.

Various arm movements such as fists, open

hands, claps, and pom-pom holds executed
Motion Positions with precision and sharpness.
 Position Type Description & Technique

Includes toe touches, pikes, and herkies,

requiring proper takeoff, body alignment, and
Jump Position controlled landings.

These basic positions help cheer dancers maintain sharp lines, create formations, and perform jumps
and stunts effectively. Mastery of these foundational stances builds the strength, balance, and
coordination essential for more advanced routines.

Safety Practices in Cheer Dance Performance

 Proper Warm-up and Stretching: To prevent injuries and improve flexibility.
 Spotting: Designated team members assist during stunts to catch or support flyers safely.
 Use of Mats and Safe Surfaces: Especially during tumbling and stunts to cushion falls.
 Progressive Skill Training: Mastering basic skills before advancing to complex stunts.
 Clear Communication: Team coordination and verbal cues during routines to avoid accidents.
 Proper Technique: Correct body alignment, controlled landings, and strength training to reduce
injury risk.
 Supervision by Trained Coaches: Ensuring routines are safe and appropriate for skill levels
 CHAPTER V
Contemporary Dances
Dance Style Definition Historical Background

Developed in the mid-20th century as

a reaction against the rigid structures
A genre that blends elements of ballet, of classical ballet and modern dance.
modern, jazz, and other dance forms, Pioneers like Martha Graham and
emphasizing fluidity, improvisation, Merce Cunningham expanded its
emotional expression, and innovation. It vocabulary. It embraces freedom of
often incorporates floor work, contract- movement and often explores
Contemporar release techniques, and unpredictable abstract themes and personal
y Dance changes in rhythm and speed. expression.

Emerged in the early 20th century as

a rebellion against ballet’s formality.
A style that emphasizes natural, Innovators such as Isadora Duncan,
expressive movement and rejects the Martha Graham, and Lester Horton
strict rules of classical ballet. It focuses on developed techniques focusing on
Modern torso movement, roundedness, and breath, contraction, release, and
Dance emotional expression. storytelling through movement.

Originated in the early 20th century in

A lively, energetic dance style African American communities,
characterized by sharp, rhythmic evolving alongside jazz music. It
movements, isolations, and syncopation. became popularized through
It often incorporates elements from Broadway, film, and television,
African American dance traditions and blending vernacular dance with
Jazz Dance popular music styles. theatrical performance.
 Dance Style Definition Historical Background

Developed in the late 20th century as

a more expressive form of jazz
A fusion of ballet and jazz that focuses on dance, lyrical dance emphasizes
expressing strong emotions and emotional connection and often uses
storytelling through fluid, graceful contemporary music to convey
Lyrical Dance movements and musical interpretation. narrative and mood.

Originated during the Italian

A formal, classical dance style known for Renaissance in the 15th century and
its precise technique, graceful was further developed in France and
movements, turnout of the legs, and use Russia. Classical ballet has a codified
of pointe work. It emphasizes line, vocabulary and has influenced many
Ballet balance, and ethereal quality. other dance forms globally.

Classification of Different Genres of Contemporary Dance

Contemporary dance is a broad and evolving genre that incorporates elements from various dance
styles. The main genres often classified under or related to contemporary dance include:

Genre Description

Modern Focuses on expressive, grounded movements, contraction and release, and often rejects
Dance classical ballet’s rigidity. Pioneered by dancers like Martha Graham and Isadora Duncan.

Jazz Characterized by energetic, rhythmic, and syncopated movements with roots in African
Dance American culture, often performed to jazz or popular music.

Lyrical A fusion of ballet and jazz emphasizing fluidity, emotional expression, and storytelling
Dance through graceful movements.

A classical dance form with precise technique, turnout, and elegant lines, providing a strong
Ballet technical foundation for many contemporary dancers.

Contemporary dance itself blends these genres, emphasizing fluidity, improvisation, changes in speed
and direction, and emotional connection. It often incorporates floor work, contract-release techniques,
and unpredictable rhythms, making it a versatile and expressive form.

Producing and Accomplishing a Choreographed Contemporary Dance

To create and perform a choreographed contemporary dance based on different dance steps, follow
these steps:

1. Concept Development:
 Choose a theme or emotion to express. Contemporary dance often tells a story or
explores abstract ideas.
2. Select Dance Elements:
 Incorporate movements from modern, jazz, lyrical, and ballet techniques, such as
contraction-release (modern), sharp isolations (jazz), fluid transitions (lyrical), and
precise footwork (ballet).

3. Create Movement Phrases:

 Combine steps into short sequences or phrases, using dynamics like changes in speed,
rhythm, and level (floor work vs. standing).

4. Structure the Choreography:

 Arrange phrases into a full routine with clear beginnings, development, climax, and
resolution.

5. Incorporate Musicality:
 Choose music that complements the mood and rhythm of the choreography. Use
accents, pauses, and tempo changes to enhance expression.

6. Rehearse and Refine:

 Practice with attention to technique, synchronization, and emotional expression. Adjust
movements for clarity and impact.

7. Performance:
 Present the dance with confidence, energy, and connection to the audience.
 CHAPTER VI
LYRICAL AND BALLET

Lyrical Dance

Definition:
Lyrical dance is a style that combines
elements of ballet, jazz, modern, and acrobatic
dance techniques. It is characterized by fluid,
expressive movements that interpret and physically
embody the emotions and lyrics of a song. Lyrical
dance emphasizes storytelling, emotional
expression, and musicality, often performed to
songs with meaningful lyrics that inspire the
choreography.

Historical Background
The origins of lyrical dance are somewhat unclear but it emerged prominently in the mid-20th
century as a fusion of ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance styles. It gained popularity through
Broadway musicals like Oklahoma! (1943) and West Side Story (1957), where dance sequences
conveyed strong emotions and advanced narratives. Lyrical dance evolved further in dance
competitions and popular culture, becoming a staple in shows like So You Think You Can Dance and
performances by Cirque du Soleil. It developed as a way to blend ballet’s technical precision with jazz
and modern dance’s emotional and expressive qualities, creating a style that is both technically
demanding and deeply emotive.

Lyrical Basic Dance Moves

1. Sashay (Chasse) – is a simple, three – count move to get across the floor
2. Chaine Turn - is a series of half turns you can complete to put a bit of energy and
beauty into your routine.
3. Fan kick – are simple but fun. They are often executed in combination with other moves,
but can easily be danced on their own.
4. Lllusion – is an advanced dance move that may be challenging for those lack flexibility
and/or balance to master.
 5. The Spiral – is a transitiona move designed to get you down on the floor and back up
again.
6. Arm Styling

Ballet

Definition:
Ballet is a classical dance form known for its
precise technique, graceful movements, and
formalized positions and steps. It emphasizes
turnout of the legs, pointed feet, balance, and
elegant lines. Ballet technique serves as the
foundation for many other dance styles.

Historical Background:
Ballet originated during the Italian
Renaissance in the 15th century and was further developed in France and Russia. It was initially
performed in royal courts and later evolved into a theatrical art form with codified techniques and
vocabulary. Classical ballet has influenced numerous other dance genres and remains a fundamental
training base for contemporary and lyrical dancers.

Common Outfits/ Costumes for Ballet Dance

The Wrap
A chiffon or georgette pull-on or wrap skirt and a pancake
tutu with a mesh wrap to add feminity of the dancers.

The Tutu
There are several different tutu styles. A tutu is usually worn
with a simple leotard or sports bra.

The Leotard
 Is a staple of a dancer’s wardrobe, and they are offered in a mindboggling selection of styles,
fabrics, and colors.

The Tights
Tights come in footed, footless and convertible styles.
Men’s tights are thinker with the default color being black for
class or rehearsals.

The Off-the-shoulder tops

A ballerina staple, these tops give a shoulder a chance to
breathe and are undoubtedly chic. Wear them on their own or
use it as a layer over a tank top.

CHAPTER VII
Social Dance

In social dancing, partners maintain physical connection through specific points of contact that allow
coordination, communication, and smooth execution of movements. The main points of contact
include:

 Hands: Partners hold one or both hands in various holds (one-hand hold, two-hand hold).
 Arms: Arms may be joined or extended to maintain connection and frame.
 Shoulder and Upper Back: In closed positions, the leader’s right-hand rests on the follower’s
back or shoulder blade, while the follower’s left-hand rests on the leader’s shoulder.
 Body Contact: In some closed positions, partners’ torsos may lightly touch or be close enough
for balance and lead.
These contact points help partners stay connected while allowing freedom of movement and
expression.

Basic Social Dance Positions

There are six basic partner positions commonly used in social dances, each defining how dancers
relate to each other:
Position Name Description

Partners face each other

without touching, allowing free
Shine Position arm and body movement.

Partners face each other,

holding both hands with
Two-Hands forearms extended, palms
Joined joined in various ways.
 Position Name Description

Similar to two-hands joined but

holding only one hand,
One-Hand allowing more freedom with
Joined the other hand.

Partners face each other

closely; leader’s left hand
holds follower’s right hand;
leader’s right-hand rests on
Closed follower’s back; follower’s left
Position hand on leader’s shoulder.

Partners stand side-by-side at

a 45-degree angle; one hand
Semi-Open connection maintained while
Position other arms are extended.

CHAPTER VIII
Waltz

Waltz is a smooth, progressive ballroom dance

characterized by flowing movements and a 3/4-
time rhythm. It is danced in a closed position with
partners moving gracefully around the floor. It is
invented in Vienna and quickly dominated the
European and American dance scenes until World
War I, when a new generation was captivated by
the contemporaneous Tango and Foxtrot. The first Waltz was fast paced, but it gradually evolved into
the slower version we know today.

Characteristics of Waltz Steps

 Performed in 3/4 time with a rhythm of slow-quick-quick or 1-2-3 counts.

 Movements are smooth, flowing, and elegant with continuous rise and fall.
 Partners maintain a closed dance hold with gentle frame and connection.
 The dance progresses counterclockwise around the floor

Tango
Tango, is a sensual ballroom dance that began in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the early 20th
century, is one of the most interesting dances. Typically done by a man and women, expressing
romance through their synchronized movements. Tango was originally performed by women, but as it
moved outside Buenos Aires, it evolved into a dance for couples.

Key elements to execute:

 Maintain a close embrace with a firm frame.
 Use sharp, deliberate steps with a strong lead and quick changes in direction.
 Incorporate staccato footwork with pauses and sudden stops.
 Emphasize head snaps, sharp leg extensions, and dramatic poses.
 Typical basic steps include walking forward and backward, side steps, and quick pivots.
 Tango is danced in a 2/4-time signature

Tango requires precision and strong connection between partners, with a focus on lead and
follow through body movement rather than hand signals.

Cha-cha

Basic Cha-cha Steps and Performance

Cha-cha is a lively, rhythmic Latin dance with a syncopated beat, danced to 4/4 music with a
characteristic "two, three, cha-cha-cha" rhythm. Cha-cha is danced to authentic Cuban music, although
in ballroom competition it is often danced to Latin pop or Latin rock. The music for the international
ballroom cha-cha is energetic and with a steady beat.

Basic step pattern:

 Step 1: Step to the side with the left foot.
 Step 2: Step back with the right foot.
 Step 3 & 4: Step side to side with the left and right foot quickly (the "cha-cha-cha" triple step).
  Step 5: Step to the side with the right foot.
 Step 6: Step forward with the left foot.
 Step 7 & 8: Step side to side with the right and left foot quickly (another "cha-cha-cha" triple
step).
Cha-cha is characterized by quick, sharp hip movements, energetic footwork, and playful attitude. It
is danced in an open or closed position with partners maintaining connection but allowing freedom of
movement.

Summary Table
Dance Basic Steps (Lead) Characteristics Performance Tips
Style

Box step: forward-left, side-

right, close, back-right, side-left, Smooth, flowing, 3/4 time, Maintain frame, dance
Waltz close rise and fall counterclockwise

Sharp walking steps, side Dramatic, staccato, close Strong lead, sharp movements,
Tango steps, pivots embrace, pauses dramatic expression

Side step, back step, triple step Lively, syncopated rhythm, Quick footwork, playful energy,
Cha-cha (cha-cha-cha) hip action rhythmic precision

CHAPTER IX

History of Street Dance

Street dance, also known as
urban dance, originated in
the 1970s in urban areas of the
United States, particularly in
cities like New York, Los Angeles,
and Chicago. It grew out
of African American and Latino
communities as a form of artistic
expression and social interaction
outside formal dance studios,
often in streets, parks, block
parties, and clubs.
Its roots trace back to various cultural influences, including:
 African dance traditions, emphasizing rhythm, improvisation, and community expression.
  Early African American vernacular styles such as jazz, tap, and Lindy Hop from the early 20th
century.
 The rise of funk, soul, and hip-hop music in the 1970s, which heavily influenced dance styles
like breaking (breakdancing), popping, locking, and later styles such as krumping,
waacking, and voguing.
Street dance was originally practiced in informal settings where dancers showcased their skills
in improvisational battles and performances, serving as a way for marginalized youth to reclaim
identity and voice. Over time, street dance evolved into a global phenomenon, embraced by diverse
cultures worldwide and featured in films, television, and competitions.

Benefits of Street Dance

 Physical Fitness: Enhances cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, coordination, and
endurance through dynamic, full-body movements.
 Creative Expression: Encourages improvisation and personal style, allowing dancers to
express emotions and individuality.
 Social Connection: Builds community and teamwork through group performances, battles, and
shared culture.
 Cultural Identity: Provides a platform for marginalized communities to celebrate heritage and
foster pride.
 Mental Health: Improves confidence, reduces stress, and boosts mood through movement and
social interaction.
 Cognitive Skills: Develops rhythm, timing, spatial awareness, and quick decision-making
during improvisation and choreography.
Street dance is not only a physical activity but a vibrant cultural practice that empowers individuals and
communities worldwide.

CHAPTER X

History of Street Dance

The Bronx in the 70's was a
rough, dangerous place to grow up. The
youth were surrounded by drugs, crime,
poverty, gang violence, and overall
struggle. Yet they, particularly the
African American and Latino youth
(minority groups), were neglected by
mainstream institutions. Desperate for a
way to escape their everyday struggles,
they invented their own art forms. These
art forms, which the youth embodied in
the way they dressed, talked, moved,
 and expressed themselves, soon became a lifestyle, a way to live. This lifestyle and culture became
known as Hip Hop

Characteristics of Hip-Hop Dance

Hip-hop dance is a vibrant, energetic style characterized by several key features:

1. High Energy: Movements are fast-paced and require stamina, matching the heavy beats of hip-
hop music.
2. Complex Footwork: Intricate and innovative foot patterns are central, often appearing effortless
but requiring skill and precision.
3. Versatility: Hip-hop dance can be performed solo or in groups, in informal settings or on stage,
accommodating all ages and skill levels.
4. Attitude: It embodies confidence, boldness, and a distinctive swagger that reflects the music
and culture behind it

Hip-hop dance emphasizes personal expression, improvisation, and connection to rhythm, often
incorporating body isolations, fluidity, and grounded movements.

Two Main Categories of Hip-Hop Dance

Hip-hop dance broadly divides into two categories based on style and approach:

Category Description

Improvised dance performed spontaneously, focusing on personal style, creativity,

and interaction with music and other dancers. It includes dance battles and cyphers
Freestyle where dancers showcase originality and skill without pre-set choreography. Examples
(Social/Street) include breakdancing (breaking), krumping, and freestyle popping/locking.

Pre-planned routines designed for stage or video performances. These routines

combine various hip-hop techniques and styles into structured sequences, often
Choreographed synchronized with music and other dancers. This category is common in music
(Performance) videos, concerts, and competitions.