Frequently Asked Questions
What is vintage dance?
Vintage dance celebrates the popular social dances starting as early as the Regency period (from the late 1790's- think Jane Austen), and Mid 19th-Century (Civil War era), through the Victorian Era (Belle Epoque) and Ragtime/2o's to as late as the 1960's.
What type of dances were danced during these periods?
Lots! Some you've undoubtedly heard of and maybe even practiced- the waltz, foxtrot, tango, & swing- but also many other dances, like quadrilles, polka, schottische, mazurka, blues, and many more!
Do you have to dress in costume/authentic clothes from the time period?
No, but it does add to the fun! For balls, many people choose to make their own historically accurate clothes or purchase them. Others try to approximate the look with pieces they have, or wear modern evening attire. For general classes and social dancing, any comfortable clothing works.
What kind of music is played?
Many groups strictly use music from the time period, but we think it's fun to meld the old with the new. Along with pieces from Schubert and Strauss, you may hear the theme from Harry Potter (a waltz!), Greenday, Tom Petty, Kelly Clarkson, Seal, & a myriad of others! We are always looking for new dance music. (We don't usually discriminate as long as you can dance to it.)
What is proper etiquette in social dance?
Just because you're celebrating the 19th century doesn't mean you need to smell like it. Proper hygiene is encouraged as it is in all dance situations. Strong perfumes and colognes are discouraged as some people are allergic. If you are apt to get sweaty during physical activities, it is polite to bring a towel or even an extra shirt to change into if necessary.
It is proper to dance with many partners during a dance, not just with the person you came with. 19th century etiquette at a ball states that you dance the first and last dance with the person you attended with, but to dance with other people all in between. In classes, partners are constantly switched in order for everyone to become better dancers.
It is most polite to answer "yes" to the question of "Would you like to dance?" even if you do not know the person. On the same note, if someone says "no", they mean it, and it is never appropriate to pester someone to dance.
What age groups is this appropriate for?
Nearly everyone! While it is not recommended for young children, older/more mature children and teens can get involved as can anyone who is able to still move. You're never too old to learn something new!
Where are the dances?
The workshops are held at our private dance space, the Chattanooga Vintage Dancers studio, at 6680 Hickory Trace Circle in Chattanooga, TN. Balls and parties are held at unique locations around town~
Vintage dance celebrates the popular social dances starting as early as the Regency period (from the late 1790's- think Jane Austen), and Mid 19th-Century (Civil War era), through the Victorian Era (Belle Epoque) and Ragtime/2o's to as late as the 1960's.
What type of dances were danced during these periods?
Lots! Some you've undoubtedly heard of and maybe even practiced- the waltz, foxtrot, tango, & swing- but also many other dances, like quadrilles, polka, schottische, mazurka, blues, and many more!
Do you have to dress in costume/authentic clothes from the time period?
No, but it does add to the fun! For balls, many people choose to make their own historically accurate clothes or purchase them. Others try to approximate the look with pieces they have, or wear modern evening attire. For general classes and social dancing, any comfortable clothing works.
What kind of music is played?
Many groups strictly use music from the time period, but we think it's fun to meld the old with the new. Along with pieces from Schubert and Strauss, you may hear the theme from Harry Potter (a waltz!), Greenday, Tom Petty, Kelly Clarkson, Seal, & a myriad of others! We are always looking for new dance music. (We don't usually discriminate as long as you can dance to it.)
What is proper etiquette in social dance?
Just because you're celebrating the 19th century doesn't mean you need to smell like it. Proper hygiene is encouraged as it is in all dance situations. Strong perfumes and colognes are discouraged as some people are allergic. If you are apt to get sweaty during physical activities, it is polite to bring a towel or even an extra shirt to change into if necessary.
It is proper to dance with many partners during a dance, not just with the person you came with. 19th century etiquette at a ball states that you dance the first and last dance with the person you attended with, but to dance with other people all in between. In classes, partners are constantly switched in order for everyone to become better dancers.
It is most polite to answer "yes" to the question of "Would you like to dance?" even if you do not know the person. On the same note, if someone says "no", they mean it, and it is never appropriate to pester someone to dance.
What age groups is this appropriate for?
Nearly everyone! While it is not recommended for young children, older/more mature children and teens can get involved as can anyone who is able to still move. You're never too old to learn something new!
Where are the dances?
The workshops are held at our private dance space, the Chattanooga Vintage Dancers studio, at 6680 Hickory Trace Circle in Chattanooga, TN. Balls and parties are held at unique locations around town~
If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!
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