what is ballroom dance

Ballroom dance is a set of partner dances that are enjoyed both socially and competitively around the world. It is a partnership dance where couples move rhythmically, expressing the characteristics of music using step-patterns. Ballroom dancing consists of two styles: the Smooth, or Standard, and the Rhythm, or Latin. The Smooth, Standard style focuses on the elegance, grace, and fluidity of movement, while the Rhythm, Latin style focuses on a display of vibrant energy and personal flair. The International School and the American School are the two principal schools of ballroom dance that have emerged, and the term is used more narrowly to refer to the dances recognized by those schools. The International School, originally developed in England and now regulated by the World Dance Council (WDC) and the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF), is most prevalent in Europe and encompasses two categories, Standard and Latin, each of which consists of five dances. The Rhythm, or American, School is most prevalent in the United States and includes dances such as the Cha Cha, Rumba, and Swing. Ballroom dance is widely enjoyed on stage, film, and television.