History & Technique of Ballroom Dance (6-Video)

History & Technique of Ballroom Dance (6-Video Collection) presents a series of in-depth lectures by renowned ballroom expert Stephen Hillier MBE, recorded live during the Moscow Dance Congress.

Widely respected as a champion, coach, lecturer, and adjudicator, Stephen Hillier shares his knowledge of the technical and historical foundations that have influenced the development of modern International Standard ballroom dancing.

Rather than focusing on choreography alone, these lectures examine the principles that support high-level performance, including movement mechanics, body coordination, partner connection, swing, sway, rotation, balance, and dance characterization.

The collection also explores how ballroom technique has evolved over time and how dancers can apply traditional principles within contemporary competitive dancing.

Topics Covered

Historical Development of Ballroom Technique

• Evolution of ballroom dancing
• Changes in competitive style over time
• Development of modern Standard technique

Fundamental Technical Principles

• Swing and sway mechanics
• Rotation and body flight
• Weight transfer and balance
• Movement efficiency

Partner Connection

• Dance hold and frame
• Communication between partners
• Maintaining connection during movement

Footwork and Leg Action

• Use of standing leg and moving leg
• Foot pressure and control
• Movement through the floor

Dance Characterization

• Slow Waltz
• Tango
• Viennese Waltz
• Slow Foxtrot
• Quickstep

Competitive Performance Concepts

• Presentation and floorcraft
• Movement quality
• Musical interpretation
• Judging considerations

Learning Benefits

• Gain a deeper understanding of ballroom technique
• Study principles used in International Standard competition
• Learn from an experienced champion and adjudicator
• Improve movement quality and partner connection
• Understand the historical context of modern ballroom dancing
• Valuable reference material for dancers, teachers, and coaches

Suitable For

• Competitive ballroom dancers
• International Standard dancers
• Dance teachers and coaches
• Advanced students
• Ballroom adjudicators and exam candidates

This six-video educational collection provides an opportunity to study the technical concepts and teaching methods of Stephen Hillier MBE, offering valuable insights into the foundations and evolution of International Standard ballroom dancing.