How Vogue dance began in a Harlem prison in the 1970s, evolved into a cultural movement, and split into four distinct styles. Discover its history and features.
How Vogue dance originated in the seventies of the last century. This dance came to us from the United States. The style began... in prison, surprising, right? Harlem Prison is located in northern Manhattan, where inmates entertained themselves by imitating women depicted in photographs from various magazines.
At first, it was just mimicking model poses. Later, they added music and various movements. Gradually, it turned into a whole dance direction.
Vogue didn't take long to become a popular form of sexual liberation for people in New York. People who were far from fashion and couldn't touch that world began organizing their own shows called "Vogue Balls". Special makeshift runways were created. People stepped onto them and imagined themselves as real celebrities. They showcased their skills, talent, emotions conveyed through dance, and new looks. People specially sewed new costumes for such shows. Thus, another subculture emerged: with dances, outfits, awards, and statuses.
The dance gained even more popularity in the nineties after the famous singer Madonna released a video with the same name – "Vogue". The style gradually spread throughout the United States, and then to Europe.
Today, it's impossible to imagine dance culture without this direction: it's freshness, novelty, sexuality, and modern choreography.
Features of the Dance
The main inimitable feature of vogue is the dancer's ability to freeze in a certain pose, no matter how whimsical, and then continue moving. The style is characterized by mannered poses and flamboyant walk. Therefore, at one time, vogue had a completely different name – "performance".
You can't underestimate vogue. It's not just an extraordinary dance for viewers; it's a whole art form. But many choreographers still don't perceive vogue as a real and full-fledged dance. Of course, that's not true. Vogue allows people to loosen up, be free, and be who they really are. Considering the fact that the entire dance consists of a set of poses with sharp movements and stops, people learn this direction in front of a mirror. It embodies excellent coordination and develops a sense of rhythm. The dance includes some gymnastic and acrobatic elements. It's easy to learn, so don't worry if you haven't done it before.
The dance is divided into 4 different directions:
— "Dramatic": This direction uses various stands, spins, falls, and many other acrobatic techniques. Elements from gymnastics are also used.
— "New Way": If you are good at balancing your body, this direction will definitely appeal to you.
— "Vogue Femme": Smooth and elegant movements, captivating with their sexuality, suitable for every woman.
— "Old Way": Simplicity and ease.
The founder of the vogue dance direction can be considered Willi Ninja, who created a real mix of arm movements and other body elements. He also came up with the idea of interesting poses and flamboyant walk.
The GoDance team crafts articles about dance, technique and inspiring stories from dancers.
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