Jazz is a style of dance that is seen in many Broadway type shows such as "Cats". It is a more structured, stage style of dance than styles such as hip hop. Jazz dancing is entertaining to watch, fun and active to participate in. Jazz features a combination of unique moves, intricate footwork, leaps and quick turns. Jazz enhances a dancers grace and balance.
Thanks to shows like Dancing with the Stars, interest in Jazz dancing is peaking right now. Jazz combines some of the rigors of Ballet training with more free-form expressionism, making it not only an exciting and accessible form to watch and dance, but also an essential to any student with an interest in musical theater or show choir.
Jazz is a uniquely American style which reflects the diversity of the United States' immigrant heritage. Both the music and the dance style mix strong African heritage with European influences. It's also a wide-ranging style of dance, and can encompass everything from the Charleston and swing to more modern dance steps. Jazz is a great way for both kids who are serious about dance and those who just want to learn to move in exciting new ways have fun expressing themselves to many different types of music.