Learn more about Ballroom Dancing, DanceSport & Medal Testing...

Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom dancing is becoming hugely popular and is now part of mainstream culture. Its performance and entertainment aspects are widely enjoyed on stage, in film and on television. People nowadays are acknowledging the benefits of dance as a total mind and body workout, as well as a great social pastime to meet people and make new friends.

Ballroom Dancing of the International Style is based on 10 dances that are split into 2 different categories: Standard (sometimes also referred to as Ballroom) and Latin/American. The Standard dances consist of: Slow Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Slow Foxtrot and Quickstep, whereas the Latin & American dances consist of: Samba, Cha Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive.

Social Dancing vs 'DanceSport'

Ballroom dancing originated as a recreational activity, but is now enjoyed both socially and competitively around the world. Competitive ballroom dancing has gone through a revolution over the past decade and is now widely known as 'DanceSport'. 

The combination of artistry and athleticism has brought DanceSport into the spotlight.  Hollywood movies such as “Shall We Dance?” and “Dance With Me”, and TV shows such as “Dancing With the Stars” and “So you Think You Can Dance?” all showcase the challenging and rewarding sides of DanceSport.

DanceSport competitions are held here in BC and around the world.  Amatuer competitions are governed by the local governing body. This association, known as DanceSport BC, governs the rules and regulations of DanceSport competitions here in BC. They ensure that competitive dancing is fun and fair for everyone.

There are various divisions that you can compete in, even if you have never danced before. Competition levels are based on both ability level and age, making it a more level playing field for everyone. Level based on technical ability include Newcomer, Pre-Bronze, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Pre-Championship and Championship. Divisions are also based on age, including that of Junior, Juvenile, Youth, Under 21, Adult, Senior 1 and Senior 2.

Training for DanceSport competitions is very similar to preparing for any other competition. It requires a lot of dedication, focus and the will to be the best. If you like the glamour and glitz of DanceSport and enjoy the challenge of performing in front of a crowded audience… this is proably the venue for you.

Social Dancing with Achievement - Medal Testing

Do you prefer not to get involved in the glitz and glamour of competition, but still want to be motivated to excel in your dancing? Medal Testing is a great way to push yourself to greater heights and to improve your dancing abilities, without the rhinestones, makeup and screaming audience. 

Medal Tests are a progressive set of tests that a student or couple can go through to set goals, monitor your progress and feel a sense of achievement. There are various levels, including Social Dance Test, Pre-Bronze, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold Star.

For each level, you will be expected to dance most of the steps specified in that level by the ISTD syllabus (the syllabus of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, one of the oldest, most prestigious international dance societies). You will be required to dance those steps, in front of an examiner, with the degree of proficiency and technique expected at that level.

For a medal test, you can dance either with a partner or with your teacher. During the test, you and your partner or teacher will be the only couple in the studio, with a CDF (Canadian Dance Federation) examiner watching and taking notes. A few weeks after your test, you will receive a copy of the examiner's notes plus your certificate and medal.

The best way to prepare for a medal test is through individual lessons (on your own or with your partner). This way, our teachers can make sure that you are dancing the proper figures for each level, and with the correct technique. If you are already attending JC Dance Co. classes, you will able to use what you have learned in class and refine it through individual lessons. Exactly how many individual lessons are required varies from student to student.

If you are interested in Medal Testing, please contact us and our instructors will help you plan your particular road to medal tests.