Dance Around The World Trivia Quiz

Answer: Argentina

There are many forms of this partner dance that originated on the border between Argentina and Uruguay in the 1880s. It is theorized that the dance originated from musical gatherings of slaves along the River Plate. The modern dance, which is called the "authentic tango", is believed to be closest to the original tango that exists today.

Answer: China

The Lion's Dance, where the dancer is dressed in a lion costume, is choreographed to mimic the movements of a lion. In China this dance is also called the Dragon Dance, and is popular during the Chinese New Year. Because there are no lions in China, it is believed that the dance was introduced from Persia or India.

Answer: Czech Republic

The polka originated in the mid-19th century in Bohemia. The origin of the dance is attributed to Anna Slezáková, who, in 1834, danced to the folk song, "Uncle Nimra Bought a White Horse". Within a year, the dance had been introduced to the ballrooms of Prague. It was so well received that it was called "polkamania".

Answer: France

The can-can was danced in the 1840s by both sexes; however, today it is most often associated with a chorus line of females who perform high kicks, cartwheels, and splits. Considered to be quite scandalous because the women wore pantalettes that could be very revealing, the dance was extremely popular due to its suggestive nature.

Answer: Iran

"Persian dance" refers to many styles of dancing that are found among the different cultural groups in Iran. The earliest Persian dance is believed to have been associated with the ancient god Mithra and involved a bull sacrifice. There are four categories of this dance: chain or line, solo improvisational, war or combat, and ritual or spiritual.

Answer: Italy

Originating in Italy, the tarantella is a lively folk dance with an upbeat tempo that is typically accompanied by tambourines. The name of the dance refers to the hysteria that was believed to have been caused by a poisonous wolf spider. Although the dance can be an elegant couples dance, the solo dance of those bitten was more agitated and could even last for days.

Answer: Ireland

Done in hard shoes in 4/4 timing as a group dance, the treble reel is popular in show dancing in Ireland. When organizing competitions, schools can determine whether or not to include the treble reel, which is usually in the Special Trophy competition.

Answer: Spain

Originating as far back as 1774 in Andalusia, which is located in southern Spain, the flamenco has come to be associated mostly with the Romani people. Many people believe that the origin of the term "flamenco" comes from the word fire, and describes the fiery dancing and performing associated with the genre. There are over 50 different "palos", or flamenco styles.

Answer: Philippines

A folk dance in the Philippines, tinikling is performed by two people who beat a rhythm on the ground with bamboo sticks, and one or more dancers who step over and between the poles. Originating during the time of Spanish colonization in the Philippines, the dancing can be accompanied by a type of Spanish music known as rondalla, which means "serenade".

The dance was inspired by the buff-banded rail, a bird known in the Philippines as a "tikling".

Answer: Saudi Arabia

A folk dance from Saudi Arabia, the ardah is performed by two rows of men who face each other; sometimes the men may hold a cane or sword. It is believed to have originated from the different Arabian tribes who wanted to show off their strength. Typically the dance is accompanied by drums or the reciting of poetry.