Dance styles
Discover more about the dance styles that we propose during the year.
Hip hop
ILLUSTRATION BY SEAN MCCABE
Hip-hop came to Belgium in the 1980s, bringing with it a cultural revolution. Originating in the ghettos of New York (1973), hip-hop encompasses elements such as rap, breakdance, DJing and graffiti, creating a multi-dimensional culture. In Belgium, young people quickly adopted this culture, creating their own hip-hop identity while tackling important social and political issues through music, dance and urban art.
Over the years, hip-hop has become deeply rooted in the Belgian cultural scene. From hip-hop festivals to dance competitions and rap workshops. What's more, hip-hop has served as a catalyst for celebrating cultural diversity and encouraging social inclusion in Belgium. As such, its arrival has been much more than just an artistic movement; it has been a force that has unified young people, enabling them to express themselves, create and connect cultures.
Breakdance, also known as b-boying or b-girling, is much more than a dance; it's a revolutionary form of artistic expression born on the streets of the Bronx in New York in the 1970s. Characterized by acrobatic movements, feats of strength and ground-based dance steps, breakdancing is the fruit of boundless creativity and raw energy. It pushes the boundaries of conventional dance, offering a canvas where dancers can defy gravity and explore new forms of movement.
Breakdance has transcended cultural and geographical boundaries to become a global phenomenon, becoming an integral part of hip-hop culture. It embodies the spirit of free expression, friendly competition and community. Breakdancers, often referred to as "b-boys" and "b-girls," continue to push the boundaries of this dance style, creating captivating performances that dazzle audiences worldwide.
Afrodance
Afro dances, a living treasure of Africa, are an exquisite blend of rhythms rooted in tradition, dynamic movement and cultural celebration. These diverse and vibrant dances have conquered the world with their infectious energy and rich history. Originating in various regions of Africa, each Afro dance tells a unique story and conveys a deep connection with music and community.
Afro dances are not just movements, they are living testimonies to African history, tradition and passion. Each African country has its own dance styles that tell a strong cultural story, contributing to the richness and diversity of African dance.
House dance, this energetic and captivating dance style, made its way into Belgium during the 1990s. Originating from the nightclubs of Chicago and New York (late 70s, early 80s), house dance quickly found its place at the heart of the Belgian dance scene. It is characterized by its fast pace, fluid movements, and endless artistic expression. Belgium embraced this dance style with enthusiasm, creating a passionate community of dancers and choreographers dedicated to exploring this unique form of expression.
Over the years, house dance has flourished in clubs, dance festivals, and dance studios across Belgium. It has contributed to the growth of the country’s electronic music culture and the diversification of the artistic scene. Belgian house dancers have brought their own creativity and interpretation to the style, thus contributing to its constant evolution. Today, house dance continues to inspire and bring together a community of passionate dancers in Belgium and beyond, reminding us of its universal power of liberation and celebration of electronic music.
House dance
Ndombolo
Originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo, ndombolo is an African dance style characterized by fast, sensual hip movements.
Coupé décalé
Born in Ivory coast, coupé-décalé is a dance and musical genre that incorporates fast foot and arm movements, as well as upbeat rhythms.
Amapiano
Originating in South Africa, amapiano is a musical genre and associated dance. It is characterized by electric piano rhythms and syncopated dance movements.
Afrohouse
Afrohouse dance style originated in Angola in the 1990s. The music was introduced to Angola by local DJs from South Africa.
Kuduro
Kuduro is a dance and music style from Angola. It is characterized by rapid leg and arm movements.
Azonto
Originating in Ghana, azonto is an urban dance style characterized by syncopated arm and leg movements, often in response to song lyrics.
Jazzé
Jazzé is a traditional dance from Gabon in Central Africa. It incorporates graceful movements and jazz rhythms.
Afrobeats
Originating from Nigeria, afrobeats is a music genre and dance that has taken the global music scene by storm.
Breakdance