Understanding the history of dancing is an important aspect. Dance is a form of art that is crated with a series of motion and gestures deeply rooted within a culture. It is a movement of the body in a rhythmic way, usually to music to express an idea or an emotion. The art of dance can be a powerful impulse or could be a skilfully choreographed form of practice by professionals. If you want to know more about dancing, keep on reading this small history lesson on dancing.
The Origin of Dancing
History states that before the invention of written languages, dancing used to be an important part of representing stories from generation to generation. The origin of dancing dates back to 3,300 BC in India; however, the earliest history of human dance is a continuing mystery.
Historical Facts about Dancing
- The first proof of dance was found in one of the 9000-year-old paintings found in a cave in India.
- One of the earliest uses of dance was in religious ceremonies that depicted stories about ancient gods and myths.
- Waltz, one of the most popular dances today, actually gained popularity in the mid-19th century, but its efforts can even be traced back to the 16th
- Dancing was considered a way for our ancestors to bond and communicate with each other during difficult times
- The belly dance was the first form of dance that was originated in many cultures almost 6,000 years ago.
Uses of Dancing
Dancing was used as a form of social interaction between people in ancient times. Here are some of the uses of dancing.
Celebration
Many dances during the early periods were performed for celebrating festivals and happy occasions, such as weddings or childbirth. These dances were popular all across the world.
Ceremonies and Rituals
Some people performed dances for ceremonies or for conducting rituals. For instance, rain dance was performed by people in periods of drought. Some dances were performed as part of religious festivals, such as the Cham dance in Tibet.
Healing
Dancing has always been used as a method of healing because of its trance state qualities. Some cultures also believed that dancing would protect them from many diseases as well.
Cultural Dancing
Africa
Dancing in Africa has been deeply rooted in the community on account of many major events. In Africa, dances were (and still are) performed during weddings, births, funerals, wars, etc. These dances help them express their emotions and grief and also help to motivate the community.
Asia
Most of the Indian classical dances are rooted back to Natyashastra, which includes body positions to represent dramatic and expressive acting. Another style of dancing introduced in India and Pakistan is known as ‘Bhangra’, which is usually performed during celebrations. The dances in Sri Lanka include devil dances, which date back to Buddhist times.
Europe and North America
Ballet dancing first developed in Italy and then in France, and members of the court enthusiastically took part in it. As time went on, professional ballet masters emerged and were licensed by the French government.
The different forms of dancing in different parts of the world later underwent a huge revolution. Dances became more refined and turned into tap dancing, disco and jazz dancing, hip hop, and much more. If your child is a dance enthusiast or wants to dance for fun, please visit our website to reach out to us, and we will be happy to have your child on board.