The Evolution of DanceSport: From Local Competitions to Olympic Recognition and Global Events

DanceSport, the competitive form of ballroom dancing, has undergone remarkable changes over the years. What started as local competitions has blossomed into a recognised athletic pursuit, gaining attention from global sporting bodies. In this blog post, we'll take an in-depth look at DanceSport’s recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), its appearances in global events like the World Games, Commonwealth Games, European Games and Olympics plus the rich history behind its impressive rise.

The Emergence of DanceSport

During the First World War musical influences from American culture infiltrated the more traditional set dances in England. Couples began creating their own steps and dancing less in a formation. Dances were informal and fun, dancing was the national pastime and many public dance halls began to open. Old Time dancing decreased, whilst OneStep, Foxtrot & Quickstep increased.

From the 1920s ballroom dancing competitions began in England and initially focused on single dances such as the Waltz, Tango or Foxtrot. In these early days, many competitions took place informally at community events. However, with the growing interest, formal structure became necessary.

Victor Sylvester, Phyllis Haylor & Josephine Bradley were instrumental in the development and standardisation of the 'English Style' of ballroom dancing in the WW1 to WW2 era.

The Imperial Society of Dance formed a ballroom branch in 1924, the British Dance Council was created in 1929 as the 'Official Board of Ballroom Dancing', The Dancing Times newspaper was a national treasure and the first Conference of Teachers of Ballroom Dancing was held from which the 'Standard Four' English Style dances were established.

Couples began to perform choreographed routines orginally in the English Style and then Latin, Showdance and Formation team competitions emerged, local clubs sprang up, and competitions multiplied significantly

As discussed in Unveiling DanceSport: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Definition, History and World Councils The World Dance Council and World Dancesport Federation became the leading Global organisations managing the development of DanceSport from the late 1990s to present day.

Inclusion in the Olympic Games

In recent years, DanceSport has actively pursued inclusion in the Olympic Games. A pivotal moment occurred in 2012 when the International Olympic Committee recognised DanceSport as an official sport. This recognition was significant, signalling that DanceSport is not just a form of entertainment but a legitimate sport upholding the standards of Olympic competition.

However, the IOC only recognised the WDSF as the Governing Body, not the WDC. Hence, only competitors who were members of the WDSF and met with their qualifying criteria would be eligible to take part in any future Olympic games that included DanceSport.

Recognition by the IOC

Recognition by the IOC was a significant step forward. This acknowledgment enables DanceSport to participate in various international sporting events. The recognition laid a strong foundation for Break Dancing to make it's debut at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The WDSF promotes various genres of dance as DanceSport such as Breaking, Hip-Hop, Acrobatic RocknRoll, Salsa, Latin, Standard, American Smooth and American Rhythm which are all Olympic category hopefuls!

Support for this initiative has come from dancers, advocates, and national federations. Their collective efforts emphasise DanceSport's unique attributes, which blend physical fitness with artistic expression, making it a worthy candidate for greater recognition.

DanceSport’s Role in the World Games

The World Games, held every four years, showcases sports not included in the Olympic program. First featured in the 1985 World Games, DanceSport has since grown to be a distinguished part of this event.

The World Games highlight disciplines outside the Olympic framework, giving DanceSport an opportunity to shine. In 2017, approximately 2,500 athletes from over 100 countries competed in these games, providing immense visibility for DanceSport. Following strict standards set by the WDSF, these competitions demonstrate exceptional technical skills and creativity on the dance floor, bringing together the best dancers from around the globe.

Commonwealth Games and DanceSport

The Commonwealth Games is another significant multi-sport event that has acknowledged DanceSport’s value. Although currently not a medal-winning discipline, DanceSport has featured in the cultural festival and opening ceremonies of the games. DanceSport first appeared as an exhibition in the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Inclusion in events like the Commonwealth Games provides dancers with a platform to showcase their talents. Not only do they display their skills, but they also promote cultural connections among participants from diverse backgrounds. As the Commonwealth Games evolve, advocates are hopeful for DanceSport's future inclusion as a formal competitive event, which could amplify its reach worldwide.

European Games and DanceSport

Launched in 2015, the European Games aimed to unify Europe through sports, and DanceSport has found a place within this competitive arena. Featured prominently in the 2015 and 2019 editions, DanceSport has showcased various styles, including Latin and Standard dances. It is still not a core sport which means it isn't always included although the WDSF and DanceSport Europe (DSE) have been working hard to promote and establish DanceSport in the European Games.

This inclusion cultivates camaraderie among European nations while underscoring the universal appeal of dance. Thousands of spectators at these events witness the artistic and athletic excellence that DanceSport offers, further establishing its reputation as a respected competitive discipline.

The Historical Journey Toward Inclusion

The road to inclusion in major sporting events has not been easy for DanceSport. Critics often question its legitimacy as a sport, citing its artistic nature as a potential barrier. Despite such challenges, the community has rallied, advocating for greater acceptance and understanding.

The establishment of governing bodies has been crucial in promoting standard practices in competitions, such as scoring systems and judging criteria. This has been vital in enhancing the sport's credibility and integrity. The increasing number of competitions and participants worldwide illustrates DanceSport's gradual acceptance and rising status on the global stage.

Future Prospects for DanceSport

The future of DanceSport looks promising, especially regarding its inclusion in major international events. Continuous support from national federations, enthusiastic dancers, and passionate advocates all contribute to its growth. Engaging youth through local clubs and competitions is crucial for promoting interest in DanceSport, ensuring a sustainable pathway for future generations.

As anticipation builds for the next Olympic Games and other international competitions, the DanceSport community remains hopeful. The collective ambition among dancers and supporters is strong. The goal is not only to compete but to elevate the profile of DanceSport.

The Journey Ahead

DanceSport’s transformation from local gatherings to prominent global platforms is remarkable. With its inclusion in the World Games, potential recognition in the Commonwealth Games, and presence in the European Games, it represents a unique mix of sport and art.

The recognition by the IOC not only lends credibility to DanceSport but also fuels the dream of Olympic status. Advocacy continues to play a pivotal role, and as the dance community evolves, it becomes increasingly clear that DanceSport has a bright future ahead. This captivating sport, rich in history and passion, continues to unite people through the beauty of movement and competition.