Dancing around the world: six breathtaking dance styles that transcend borders

Dancing around the world: On April 29, we celebrate World Dance Day, which dates back to the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, the creator of modern ballet. In this celebration of dance, we look at the rich diversity of dances in the Basque Country, where more than 200 different dances are passed down from generation to generation. The Mutxiko and the Fandango are two of the most famous dances celebrated in villages like Bidart on the French Atlantic coast.
Ardah: Ceremonial sword dance in Saudi Arabia
The Ardah is an impressive sword dance that has its roots in Saudi Arabia. Originally performed before battles, this dance combines drumming, poetry and music. Today, the Ardah is considered a valuable part of Saudi culture and is presented at weddings, national celebrations and religious holidays.
Reggaeton and Perreo: Puerto Rico’s vibrant dance culture
Music and dance are fundamental elements of Puerto Rican culture. Reggaeton, influenced by hip-hop, Latin American and Caribbean music, emerged in San Juan in the 1990s and quickly spread worldwide. The accompanying dance, the perreo, focuses on sensual movements and lets the dancers get lost in the music.
Boise, Idaho: America’s Basque Heart
Boise, the capital of Idaho, is home to the largest Basque community outside of Europe. Basque traditions and flavors are carefully preserved here, and the Oinkari Basque Dancers perform at various events to showcase their vibrant culture.
Texas Hill Country: Line Dance and Two Step
Texas is home to numerous historic dance halls that celebrate line dancing and two step. Gruene Hall in New Braunfels is the oldest dance hall in Texas, while Luckenbach, a small town with a rich musical heritage, has operated a legendary dance hall since 1887.
Broadway, New York: Bob Fosse’s Dancin’ and the unique dance style
Broadway in New York is not only known for its outstanding musicals, but also for its own style of dance, shaped by choreographers like Bob Fosse. The new production of Bob Fosse’s Dancin’ is a tribute to the art form of dance and to Fosse himself, who influenced an entire generation of dancers.