1920s Dance Research Paper

1920s Dance

Through the years, the style of dance has significantly changed from something intimate to more individual. With the introduction of more “vulgar” dance moves, the generation gap is wide. Traditional dances like the Waltz remained popular, but with younger people adding their own style to the traditional dances, a new generation of dance was formed. Dancers swayed, hugged, and hopped to the new rhythms of ragtime. Close dancing became a social norm through the Waltz and Tango, because they were considered scandalous, involving physical contact between partners.

The Charleston was introduced through an African American casted Broadway musical, “Running Wild,” and became a symbol for the Jazz Age. Named for the city in South Carolina,

The dance itself was not about showing off, but more for a desired sense of smoothness and rhythmic grace between partners. Many variations were made on the dance floor between partners, depending on the music, which was usually a sweet jazz -a moderate to slow tempo with a smooth, mellow sound. One of the variations created, formed a whole other style of dance, the Toddle. It’s called the Toddle because of how “young people took to throwing their arms and legs in the air with reckless....hopping or ‘toddling’ every step in the Foxtrot”

For women, the corset was the first to leave the clothing ensemble, because it was too restricting when dancing with a partner. They also wore more “loose, short, swishing dresses….exposing more knee, leg, and thigh” (Roaring). Dance shoes grew taller, the short Cuban heel worn during the day was exchanged for a higher, thinner heel to accentuate the exposed legs. They were usually made with straps, Single Mary Jane or T-straps, with varying degrees and sparkling trims to follow that years trends. For men nothing special was required. Casual sporting shirts and suits were worn for less formal community dances. After attending a few events, one could require a tuxedo or dinner jacket. Jackets were usually left on during a dance, although hot to wear, they kept the sweat and manly musk off of the partner. Mens shoes had leather soles, if opted for special ones. Rubber soles were great for everyday wear but too sticky on the dance floor. The only exception for rubber sole shoes was if dancing on a yacht or cruise ship, to help stay in place while on rough waters