Dance is an intrinsic part of the human experience. Since humans have existed, they have danced. We’ve danced for rain, danced to celebrate, and danced just for the joy of it, and as we evolved, dance evolved with us.
It would take us years to talk about the evolution of dance and the role it has played not only in our histories but also in our psyche, so instead, we’ve limited ourselves to dancing through the decades.
From the exuberant Charleston of the 20s to the viral TikTok dances of today, join us as we explore the popular dances of each decade and how these styles have evolved throughout the years.
And for the best dance classes in Miami, there’s only one trusted name – The Miami Dance Project. Not only have we evolved with dance over the decades, but we keep redefining dance through our various dance classes.
Why Dance Styles Change Over Time
Each genre influences popular culture and is influenced by the attitudes of each decade, creating a loop the way only art can as it evolves with the music, culture, and social trends of its time.
Social and cultural shifts have always played a role, as we’ve seen in eras where dance served as an escape or as a form of protest, and we at Miami Dance Project honor this dynamic history with classes that celebrate styles from every era.
The Most Popular Dances of Each Decade
1920s – The Charleston
The Charleston, with its flapping arms and bouncy kicks, became an emblem of the Jazz Age. Dancers like Josephine Baker introduced the dance to Europe and helped popularize the Charleston around the world, putting this vivacious, rebellious dance under the spotlight.
At Miami Dance Project, our Jazz Classes incorporate some of the Charleston’s elements into modern moves, letting you see how the exuberance of the roaring 20s still lives today.
1930s – Lindy Hop (Swing Dancing)
Swing dancing was all the rage in the 30s, but with its acrobatic movements and snappy footwork, Lindy Hop took the limelight. Born in Harlem, this style is full of spontaneity and improvisation and is considered by many as a “true national folk dance.“
One of the reasons why the Lindy Hop became so famous was because dancers liked to combine elements of jazz and tap dancing and integrate them into their routines, which gave each one a unique style. An element of individuality that would later on color other popular dances throughout the decades.
1940s – The Jive
The Jive played a crucial part in lifting spirits during the turbulence of World War II.
It became a popular form of entertainment, and a way of finding fun and joy in times of hardship; So much so, that the USO organized GI Jive Dance Parties with the goal of boosting morale amongst the troops and civilians.
It’s a documented fact that dancing can help with emotional regulation, and our Kinder Dance class takes advantage of this by providing young dancers with the opportunity to learn how to manage their feelings through rhythmic movement and dancing.
1950s – The Twist
Brought to fame by Chubby Checker, The Twist became the emblem of the rock’n’roll era. The hip-swiveling motions done in time with the energetic music allowed people to dance solo, which shook up traditional dance norms just as much as rock shook up traditional music.
The Twist’s popularity exploded all across America in clubs like The Peppermint Lounge, where fans listened to the latest songs and tried new moves, transforming this dance into a symbol of youth rebellion.
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock, popularized the Twist and other 50s dance moves even more by adding his own flair and personality to the dance. His performances helped establish rock’n’roll as a cultural phenomenon that would influence dance styles for decades to come.
1960s – Go-Go and Freeform Dancing
Following the trend of individuality in dance set by The Twist, the popular dances of the 60s introduced Go-Go and freeform dancing, where self-expression reigned supreme. Dancers took to club stages all around the country in bold, bright outfits to try out new steps.
Go-Go dancing became an integral element of the 1960s cultural landscape and served as an inspiration for all kinds of popular dances throughout the decades, like the Mashed Potato, an energetic dance with rapid, pivoting steps that became a feature in TV shows like Shindig!
In our Contemporary Dance Lessons, you’ll be able to experience the same movements and freedom that made Go-Go a phenomenon.
1970s – Disco Dancing (The Hustle)
The 70s dance scene witnessed the birth of Disco. Clubs like New York’s Studio 54 evolved into cultural icons that drew all kinds of people eager to dance to hits by performers such as the Bee Gees and Donna Summer. The Hustle was at the center of the scene.
Like Disco, The Hustle allowed dancers to freely express themselves while being part of something greater, giving dancers the chance to find freedom in synchronicity. Movies like Saturday Night Fever helped solidify the genre’s appeal, while TV shows like Soul Train introduced popular dances in the 1970s into America’s living rooms.
The term “Disco” encompassed more than simply music; it was a state of mind, a way of life, and the dress and philosophy associated with it had an impact at the global level.
1980s – Breakdancing
The popular dances of the 80s marked the birth of hip-hop and its quick rise of popularity in dance, music, and fashion.
Breakdancing became a huge phenomenon, and while legendary musicians like Run-D.M.C brought hip-hop to the masses, it was the dancers who enthralled viewers all around, with movies like Beat Street helping to popularize dance battles as a form of expression.
Our Hip-Hop Dance classes at Miami Dance Project honor this rich legacy and let you explore traditional moves and learn the contemporary forms that maintain 1980’s dance moves as dynamic and new as always.
1990’s: Macarena & Line Dancing
90s dances became popular at parties in the 1990s since they were simple to learn. With its simple hand and hip motions that let it be carried over the globe, the Macarena is among the most recognizable dances throughout the decades.
At the same time, new rhythms were introduced to the pop scene by Latin musicians like Ricky Martin and Shakira. If Latin dances inspire you, consider joining our Flamenco Classes, which offer an excellent opportunity to add depth and flair to your dance repertoire.
2000s: Hip-Hop & Krumping
Artists like Beyoncé, Usher and Justin Timberlake dominated the decade, adding choreography heavily inspired by hip-hop moves, which inspired fans all over the world to pick up 2000 dances.
At the same time, Latin rhythms such as reggaeton grew in popularity thanks to musicians such as Daddy Yankee and Pitbull, resulting in a rich tapestry of dance styles in which pop, hip hop, and reggaeton all mingled together.
It was in this fusion that dances from the 2000s fully demonstrated the power of dance in music, as well as how different styles might blend together to create something new and exciting..
As this was happening, Krumping emerged as a powerful street dance movement. While pop artists were polishing 2000s dance moves for mainstream audiences, Krumping retained its gritty, underground feel. Its distinctive style added depth to the decade’s dance tapestry, showing how hip-hop and street dance continued to evolve and influence both the underground scene and mainstream pop culture.
2010s: The Floss
Just as the popularity of social media increased, so did the dancing trends it inspired. Dance moves such as “The Floss” swiftly acquired popularity, which exploded when the dance was added to Fortnite.
This dance, alongside many others at the time, spread like wildfire, turning social media into a launchpad for dance crazes that would reach millions worldwide, a phenomenon only intensified by the arrival of TikTok.
Dance moves like the Floss, the Dab, and the Orange Justice captured the imagination of young dancers all over the world, who often mimicked these dance moves for social media.
If you were inspired by these trends, and want to improve your skills, our Youth Dance Company offers a disciplined setting in which you can explore and perfect your abilities. Our program helps dancers take their passion to new heights and connects them with the greater dance community.
Be Part of Dance History with Miami Dance Project
Dance has always changed to resonate with the spirit of each decade. From the Charleston to today’s viral dances, every decade’s most famous dance moves have been influenced and influenced in return.
At Miami Dance Project, we’re all about embracing change! Whether you’re into classic styles or ready to learn the newest moves, we’d love for you to be part of our community.
Dance with us, and become a part of this ever-changing art form. Visit us today, and take your first step into a world where movement meets passion and tradition blends with innovation.
FAQ
What Types of Classes Do You Offer?
We offer many different types of dance lessons. Some of these classes include ballet, hip hop, jazz, acro, and flamenco. There’s something for everyone!
Do You Offer Classes for Children? How Old Should They Be?
We welcome children as young as three years old, as long as they’re potty trained. Younger children are welcome to try, though they need to be able to focus on the class to stay.
Is There a Dress Code?
We do have a dress code, which you can find outlined here.
Do You Have Performances or Competitions?
Sure thing! There’s an end-of-year recital every June where all of our students participate. However, the only students who participate in competitions are our company dancers.
When Are Auditions?
Our auditions take place over the summer months, typically in June.