The art of dance has been a form of cultural expression for places all over the world, and the state of Georgia is no different. The Peach State has a rich heritage of folk dance that has helped shape its dance culture. The capital city of Atlanta abounds with performing arts opportunities, and is home to a large number of dance troupes, schools, and theaters. To celebrate Georgia's dance communities there are several annual dance festivals held throughout the state, as well as various dance studios and organizations.
Georgian Folk Dance
The term "folk dance" can be described as a number of different ethnic dances, mostly of European origin. Though they originate from different cultures, folk dances often shared similar characteristics: they were originally danced in the 19th century, dominated by tradition, danced mostly by common people, and developed spontaneously. Kinds of folk dances common in Georgia include ballroom dancing, Cajun dance, clog dance, contra dance, swing dance, tap dance, and other traditional ethnic dances.
Traditionally performed during social events, folk dancing is very informal, and done more for fun than for competition. There are a number of folk dance clubs in Georgia which hold weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly scheduled dances. Those interested in finding out more about Georgia's folk dance can contact folk dance groups like Dawson Express Cloggers, the Athens Folk Music and Dance Society, Thursday International Folk Dancers, or any of the many other dance clubs located throughout the state.
Square Dance
Though there are many different styles of folk dance in Georgia, square dancing has especially made its mark on the Peach State. J. Max Davis, a representative from DeKalb County, introduced House Bill No. 1519, which designated square dancing as the official folk dance of Georgia. After being approved by both Georgia's House of Representatives and Senate, it went into effect on July 1, 1996.
Square dancing is danced by couples, or groups of couples, in the shape of a square with each couple forming a side. The couples execute a number of movements that are directed by the patter instructions given by the "caller." Synchronized movement is the indication of well-performed square dancing. Several other dances are similar to square dancing, including contra dance, sometimes called "longway" dance; however, contra is danced in a circle instead of a square movement.
Plenty of opportunities are available for square dancing in Georgia, and a number of square dance organizations are located throughout the state. You can get more details about square dance events in the state by contacting clubs like the Metro Atlantic Square Dancers Association, the Georgia State Square Dance Association, and other clubs. These organizations provide visitors with a schedule of events, dance performances and concerts.
Dance Festivals and Organizations
Of course, there are other styles of dance in Georgia. Because dance is such a big part of the state's traditions, a number of dance events, festivals, and celebrations are held annually throughout the state. Visitors can learn more about Georgia's dance culture at the following festivals and dance events:
The Annual Peach State dance festival offers workshops, private lessons given by judges and dance instructors, and even holds a dance competition. Types of dance visitors will experience at this festival include line dancing, cha cha, waltz, swing, and the hustle.
The Iman Park Dance Festival in Atlanta is a two-day festival of classic and contemporary dance for a broad and family-oriented audience.
Several annual dance events are held at the University of Georgia, including the First and Third Friday Dance Party and the Atlanta Ballet Performing Arts Center Dance Festival in September.
The Hungarian State Folk Ensemble, PAC Dance Festival, and the Dance Athens concert are also great opportunities to learn more about Georgia's dance scene.
Dance organizations help to preserve Georgia's various dance styles, and give those interested in dance a chance to participate. Many of these organizations are non-profit and put on a number of dance productions in their communities. Here are some of Georgia's dance organizations and studios:
The Fred Astaire Hartford Ballroom Dance Studio has three locations in the state of Georgia, including Atlanta and Macon.
With the motto "poetry in motion," the Atlanta Ballet has celebrated 77 years of ballet in Atlanta, and puts on dance productions of classic favorites like Peter Pan, Romeo and Juliet, and Sleeping Beauty.
For a little Latin culture, check out the Mecolanza Dance Studios, which incorporates such Latin dances as samba, salsa, and mamba. The company mixes Spanish, African, and Native American culture. Dance styles include modern, contemporary, jazz, Caribbean, and more, with a Latin twist.
Dance FX is a non-profit organization with a focus in cutting-edge professional dance styles, offering dance education and a performance outlet for dancers.
Full Radius Dance enhances modern dance forms for people with disabilities. This "physically integrated" dance company celebrates technique and physicality.
Dance is an important outlet for Georgia's cultural expression, and can also provide great entertainment for vacationers. Take the family to see an exciting dance performance of favorites like the Nutcracker or Peter Pan, an outing sure to be a hit with the kids. Check with different dance venues to find out the schedule of performances so you can make dance a part of your Georgia getaway.
