Explore by Genre
500 Years of Dance
13 genres, 70 dance styles — from Renaissance courts to modern competition floors.
Competitive Ballroom
International Standard
Modern ballroom dances codified in early 20th century England, characterized by upright posture, closed position, and smooth traveling action.
England · 1920–Present
American Smooth
Ballroom dances adapted for American competition with greater freedom of movement and separation than International Standard.
United States · 1965–Present
International Latin
Dynamic, rhythmic dances with Cuban motion and hip action, codified in England from Caribbean and Latin American sources.
England/Latin America · 1930–Present
American Rhythm
Competitive Latin dances with Cuban motion and syncopated rhythms, developed in America with emphasis on hip action and rhythm.
United States · 1965–Present
Historic Eras
Historic Renaissance Court
Stately Renaissance court dances from 15th-16th century Italian and French courts, emphasizing geometric patterns and noble bearing.
Italy/France · 1450–1600
Historic Baroque Court
Elegant Baroque court dances from 17th-18th centuries, featuring ornamented movement and refined technique.
France/Italy · 1600–1750
Historic Regency Country
English country dances and cotillions from the 18th-19th centuries, characterized by line and square formations.
England · 1700–1850
Historic Gilded Age Ballroom
Ballroom dances from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, blending European traditions with emerging couple dances.
Europe/America · 1850–1920
Historic American Contra
American contra dances descended from English country dances, featuring line formations and caller-led movements.
United States · 1750–Present
Social & Cultural
Specialty Swing
Energetic partner and solo dances developed during the swing era (1930s-1940s) and revival movements.
United States · 1930–Present
Specialty Argentine Tango
Traditional Argentine tango styles emphasizing improvisation, close embrace, and street-tango origins.
Argentina · 1880–Present
Specialty Club Latin
Contemporary Latin dances found in nightclubs and social dance venues worldwide, from Caribbean and Latin American traditions.
Caribbean/Latin America · 1960–Present
Specialty Country Western
Social couple dances associated with country and western music, including line dances and partner two-steps.
United States · 1940–Present