Performance dance - Definition and Overview

Performance dance is a major category or classification of dance forms or dance styles, where performance is the primary focus of the dancing.

By contrast, in social dance there is no audience (as such) as all participants perform and watch at the same time.

Usually performances are danced to a set music and choreography, whereas social dances are danced to changing music and without choreography. Exceptions can be found in many of the un-standardized social dances like argentine tango, salsa or swing

This compares to other major dance categories based on purpose:

Ceremonial dance - Competitive dance - Erotic dance - Participation dance - Social dance - Concert dance

Almost any type of dance may be danced for the purpose of performance. However the following dance forms or styles are traditionally considered specific for this category:

• Ballet
• Ballroom Dance
• Belly Dance
• Bharatanatyam
• Cabaret
• Character dance
• 20th century concert dance
• Historical dance
• Jazz
• Modern dance
• Musical theatre
• Pole dance
• Striptease

Reference

Adams, D.(1999)Making the Connection: A Comparison of Dance in the Concert Versus Worship Setting. Sharing NYC. ISBN 0941500519

See also

• Dance basic topics
• List of dance style categories
• List of dances