France

France's Dances

France

Ballet — Classical elegance and world-renowned technique, codified at the court of Louis XIV — which is why ballet's vocabulary is in French.

French Cancan — A high-energy, iconic Parisian cabaret dance with high kicks and swirling skirts.

Bourrée — A popular regional folk dance from central France, especially Auvergne and Berry.

Farandole — A festive open-chain community dance from Provence.

Gavotte — A lively traditional dance from Brittany, also adopted as a refined court dance.

Branle — An old French chain or circle dance, very popular during the Renaissance.