Old dance. Antique dance.
Vintage dance.
Each of these terms brings up an image in my mind of the olden days when dancing was the form of entertainment and socialization. In the 1900's the upper class gathered in large halls of private residences and public community centers, while country folk held barn dances. With the 20th century came more public dance halls, music venues and theaters.
Common dances of the 19th century were quadrilles, waltzes, Schottisches, polkas and set dances. The 20th century brought us the One Step, Cake Walk, Peabody, Lindy hop, Hustle and Swing.
Because of the large scale popularity of dance learning to dance, was easy. New dance steps and styles were passed on from one dance hall to the next, dancer by dancer. Articles in newspapers and magazines gave instructions on the latest dance moves. Dancers eagerly practiced the new moves at home before putting them to test on the dance floor.
The reviving and sometimes reinventing of old dances has taken on a new life across the USA as well as parts of Europe, Asia and Australia. On any given weekend you can find classes and events like Victorian Balls, Ragtime Tea Dances, Regency Parties, Gatsby Picnics, Big Band Swing Dances, Edwardian Balls, and Contra Dances. Each special event not only seeks to provide authentic dance, but authentic music and costuming as well. Classes and social dances set to modern music and casual day wear are equally common.
The return of social dance, in the style old fashion dances from days gone by, is a growing hobby with a large community on the Internet.
At VintageDancer.com we seek to:
1. educate the world about vintage dance, music and fashion
2. provide a community forum-a gathering place for old and antique dance enthusiasts
3. make a one stop shopping portal for clothing, music, books and videos related to vintage dance
If you are new to vintage dance we hope your find our site informative. If you are vintage dance regular we hope you will not only learn something new but participate in sharing your wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
