Performing Arts - Dance Moves and Techniques

Here you will learn some English words related to dance moves and techniques such as "shimmy", "glide", and "shuffle".

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Performing Arts

a dance step in jazz, tap, and hip hop where the dancer shifts weight from one foot's ball to the other, often with a change in direction or rhythm

box step [noun]

a basic partner dance step in foxtrot, waltz, and salsa, characterized by a square or rectangular pattern consisting of side, back, side, and forward steps

a dance stance in partner dancing where the dancers maintain physical contact and dance facing each other, typically used in ballroom dance styles such as waltz and foxtrot

do-si-do [noun]

a basic movement in square dancing where two dancers pass around each other back to back and return to their original positions

Ex: The do-si-do is a classic square dance move , requiring coordination and cooperation between partners as they move in sync with the music .

a ballroom dance move with clockwise and counter-clockwise rotations while taking two steps back and two steps forward, used in waltz, foxtrot, and other dances

a ballroom dance move with a forward step, closing step, and side step, used in waltz, foxtrot, and other dances

floss [noun]

a hip hop dance move with rapid hip and arm swings in opposite directions, often seen in street dance styles

telemark [noun]

a ballroom dance figure with a forward step, closing step, and backward step, often used in waltz and foxtrot

gancho [noun]

a leg hooking or wrapping action used in partner dancing, particularly in tango and Latin dances

a sidestep-cross-step pattern often used in various dance styles, characterized by a flowing or weaving motion

a dance step that involves pivoting or rotating on the heel, used for changing direction or adding a turning element in dance

impetus [noun]

a forceful turn or spin in dance, often used in partner dances like waltz and foxtrot

moonwalk [noun]

a dance move in which the dancer appears to glide backwards while keeping their body facing forward, popularized by Michael Jackson

Ex: Moonwalk classes have become increasingly popular among dance enthusiasts , eager to learn the iconic move and incorporate it into their routines .

a dance step where the feet cross in front or behind each other in a tightly connected manner

a dance move commonly used in jazz or hip-hop dance styles where one foot is kicked forward followed by a quick step onto that same foot

a dance or theater gesture where hands are spread wide with fingers open and palms facing forward, often associated with jazz or musical theater performances

accent [noun]

a sharp or emphasized movement that highlights a specific beat or musical element in a choreography

shimmy [noun]

a dance move characterized by rapid shaking or oscillation of the shoulders or hips, often used as a form of expression or celebration

Ex: The party erupted into cheers as the guests joined in a spontaneous shimmy , shaking their hips in time with the music .

a turn executed by a dancer or a couple, where they pivot on one foot while making a graceful, sweeping movement in a circular or straight line

Ex: In ballroom dancing , the promenade showcases the dancers ' control and precision as they pivot and glide in perfect harmony .

when a dancer creates a pronounced arch in the foot by bending the ankle joint while keeping the foot pointed

a dance technique where specific body parts are moved or controlled independently from the rest, allowing for isolated movements of one part while keeping others still

frame [noun]

the correct posture, alignment, and positioning of the body in partner dances to ensure fluid movement and proper connection

Ex: His frame was perfectly aligned , making their performance look effortless .

a dance step where one foot stays in place while the other foot rotates or spins, commonly used in ballet, jazz, modern, or ballroom dances

fan kick [noun]

a sweeping leg extension resembling the opening of a fan, used in ballet, jazz, or contemporary dance for its visual appeal and expressiveness

twerk [noun]

a dance move characterized by rapid, repeated hip thrusts and shaking of the buttocks

the act of designing and organizing dance movements for a performance

glide [noun]

a smooth and graceful movement executed by a dancer, characterized by fluid motion and the appearance of effortless travel across the dance floor

Ex: During the salsa routine , the lead guided his partner through a series of glides , smoothly transitioning between turns and spins with finesse .

a dance figure in ballet or folk dances where dancers perform a linked chain of turns or steps in a circular or straight pattern

to maintain a synchronized pace or rhythm, especially while walking, marching, or dancing in a group

Ex: In traditional folk dances , participants often keep step with each other , following the lead of the dance instructor to maintain synchronicity .
phrase [noun]

a coherent sequence of movements or steps that convey a specific idea, emotion, or theme within a choreographic composition

Ex: The soloist delivered a captivating performance , seamlessly transitioning between phrases with grace and expressiveness .
shuffle [noun]

a type of dance step characterized by sliding or dragging the feet along the floor, typically executed with a rhythmic pattern

Ex: The performers executed a series of intricate shuffles , their synchronized footwork adding flair to the routine .

a dance move that gained popularity in the 1980s, characterized by bouncing and twisting movements, often with arms extended and hands making a "C" shape

Dougie [noun]

a hip hop dance move characterized by swaying body motions and arm movements, typically performed to hip hop or rap music

a style of ballet technique in which dancers perform on the tips of their toes using specialized pointe shoes, requiring strength, balance, and precision

Ex: In the ballet recital , the corps de ballet performed a breathtaking toe dance , their synchronized movements showcasing the beauty and precision of classical ballet .