Dance is one of the most amazing forms of art that signifies different cultures, which is something that we like the most about it.

It is performed in many cultures as a form of emotional expression, social interaction, and exercise. Dance is the perfect synchronization between the body, music, and mind.

Dance is often used to express ideas or tell a story in a rhythmic way. The best part is; it is a passion for some and profession for others.

There is one fact that you can agree to, whether you can or cannot, you want to dance on special occasions.

Dance has remained an integral part of various cultures around the world.

Today, it’s time for us to address 10 of the most famous dance forms around the world. This list is going to be a comprehensive one and has various dance forms which are recognized and popular among the masses.

• Break Dance

Break dance is the most famous form of street dancing and is known as B-boying or B-girling. The style was mainly popularized by Michael Jackson in 1980s. This dance style is very acrobatic and also involves some elements of gymnastics in it.

• Hip Hop

Hip Hop is a dance style that is considered to be one of the most energetic and tough dancing styles. This dance style has evolved from the hip-hop culture and now is being performed hip-hop music.

However, Hip Hop requires a great level of flexibility and constant practice to master this form of dance style. Hip Hop includes a wide range of styles like locking, popping, and breaking which were created back in 1970 and were made popular by dance crews in the United States.

• Kathak

Kathak is a dance form which was originated in India and is amongst the eight forms of Indian classical dances. This dance form’s origination goes back to the ancient times in Northern India and the dancers’ indulged in it were known as kathakars or storytellers.

In India, kathak is a dance form dedicated towards temples and is a ritual in nature and has the influence of the bhakti movement.

From the 16th century onwards kathak absorbed certain features of Persian dance and central Asian dance. The name of the dance is derived from Sanskrit which means story. The classical dances can be compared to the ballet dances. These dances are very complicated and usually have a meaning to them.

• Tap Dance

You’d be surprised to know that tap dance is an African American dance form. It has its roots in the juba dance, English Lancashire clog dancing, and also in Irish step dancing. Its origination goes back to the times of 1800s during the rise of minstrel shows. Tap Dance is considered to be the interesting dance styles across the globe as it requires perfection in rapid feet and leg movement.

What makes this dance style quite unique is the use of special shoes meant for tap dance only. The metal plates attached to shoes are tapped against the ground thereby creating a rhythmic sound.

• Bhangra Dance

When it comes to global recognition, there is no other dance form than Bhangra itself. Bhangra is a Punjabi folk dance that was originated in the Majha area of Punjab.

Bhangra is said to be the most rhythmic and lively dance forms in the world which is mostly performed on the beats of drums. Apart from small celebrations, Bhangra is mainly danced to celebrate the harvest and also in various cultural and religious events like Baisakhi Festival. This dance form showcases imagination, talent, potential, and charisma of the people of Punjab.

• Ballet Dance

Being a dance form originated in Italy, Ballet Dance was later developed in France and Russia and began to be performed as a concert dance.

To be honest, Ballet Dance is considered to be one of the most complicated dance forms and is usually taught in different ballet schools across the globe. If you are planning to learn it, then let me warn you that this dance form is highly technical and is choreographed with orchestral or vocal music.

• Belly Dance

Being a dance form originated in Middle East, Belly Dance is quite popular in North America, UK, Australia, and Spain. It is an Arabic expressive dance form that was originated in Egypt and has evolved in terms of both costume and dance style which varies from country to country.

This dance style mainly features hips of the dancers which is the reason why it is considered to be one of the most sensual dance forms in the world and is mainly performed in bars and nightclubs.

• Salsa

When it comes down to popularity, then you’d be surprised to know that Salsa is quite a popular dance form in Asia, Australia, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, and North America.

Salsa was originated in Cuba and requires a couple to pull off the performance. But, it doesn’t mean solo dancers are not welcome, apparently there are certain solo forms and versions which make this dance form quite an interesting one. As far as its music is concerned, Salsa is mainly performed on Salsa music along with Latin American music as well.

• Jazz

This list would be incomplete without mentioning Jazz, don’t you think so?

Jazz is considered to be one of the most lively dance forms which involve originality and improvisation. What you don’t know about this dance form is that it was originated in Africa originally, but later was popularized by the slaves who were brought to the United States.

Later on, Jazz was evolved to become a style of street dance, and by the early 20^th century it moved to the jazz clubs.

• Tango

We have to give kudos to Spanish settlers for introducing Tango dance to the world. This dance form is considered to be one of the most unique and fascinating dance forms across the nations.

Tango is a sensual ballroom dance that was originally performed by women only. But it was just a matter of time when it became more of a couple dance form and gain popularity in Argentina.

 

The Wrap Up

So, those were 10 most famous dance forms which you can get a hold anywhere in the world. If you found this article helpful then do make sure to check out our other articles as they are quite interesting. Other than that, do let us know what kind of article you’d like us to cover next time.