Dance Fever Studio on the North Shore - Marblehead, MA

Waltz

Sometimes referred to as "Slow Waltz," this is often the first dance that comes to mind when we hear the words "ballroom dance." Embodying elegance, grace, and romance, this slow and sweeping dance glides across floor in three-quarter time. Featuring a smooth rise-and-fall motion, the dance is done in a "closed hold" position. The slow 1-2-3 beat and the basic "box-step" of the Waltz makes it an ideal dance for beginners to start with. Dating back to the 16th century, the Waltz is the epitome of old-world charm. The general feeling is floating and ethereal; while hesitations and syncopated steps can be incorporated, the accent in "1-2-3" is on the "1" beat.

Like all the International Standard dances, the Waltz travels around the floor in a counter-clockwise pattern; this is referred to as the "line of dance." In competition, part of the challenge is orienting oneself on the floor; dancers are judged on their "floorcraft," or how well they maneuver between other couples and how well they utilize the space they have. The partners' "connection" is also key in ballroom dance. The gentleman leads the lady though their frame, or hold: the lady places her left arm atop the gentleman's right, with her left hand just beneath his shoulder; her right hand takes his left. Through this connection, the gentleman gives cues to the lady as to where to move, and how far. This ensures that the partners move together in unison and are in sync with all their movements.

Read about the rest of the International Standard dances.

DANCE WORKSHOP 2010

For a number of years, Dance Fever Studio has been host to the area's only ballroom dance-focused summer day camp.

With opportunities for children 5 years and older, our Summer Dance Workshop features Ballroom and Latin dance, fitness, arts and crafts, and more!

Call
888-267-7903
to learn more.

• International Standard
• Waltz
• Tango
• Foxtrot
• Viennese Waltz
• Quickstep
• International Latin
• Cha-Cha
• Samba
• Rumba
• Paso Doble
• Jive
• Other Dances
• Wedding Dance Services