Jazz dance is a dynamic and ever-evolving form that reflects the rhythm, energy, and soul of the times. Originating in African American communities in the early 20th century, jazz dance has grown from a social and cultural expression into a theatrical and commercial powerhouse—seen on Broadway stages, in music videos, and in elite studios worldwide.
Origins and Evolution Jazz dance began in the early 1900s in New Orleans, where African dance traditions—steeped in rhythm, improvisation, and grounded movement—met European styles like the polka and waltz. As jazz music developed, so did social dances like the Charleston, Lindy Hop, and Shimmy. These styles quickly moved from clubs to theatre stages.
The foundation of jazz dance lies in African tribal dance—rich in rhythm, grounded movement, and improvisation. As African people were brought to the Americas through slavery, their cultural dances merged with European styles, birthing new forms of expression. Tap dance, cakewalks, and minstrel shows all carried the seeds of jazz.
As jazz music rose in popularity during the early 1900s, particularly in New Orleans, the dance followed suit. Dance halls came alive with the Charleston, Black Bottom, and Lindy Hop. These styles thrived in communities like Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance, and jazz became synonymous with freedom, individuality, and social connection.
In the 1940s and 50s, jazz found its way into musical theatre, with choreographers like Jack Cole shaping what we now know as theatrical jazz. Cole combined Eastern movement influences with isolations and sharp percussive steps to create a strong visual language for Hollywood and Broadway.
Influential Choreographers and Artists
- Bob Fosse: Revolutionised jazz with his unmistakable style—turned-in knees, isolated movements, bowler hats—Fosse revolutionised stage jazz. His work in ‘Chicago’, ‘Cabaret’, and ‘Sweet Charity’ created a vocabulary of cool control and stylised seduction.
- Jack Cole: Considered the father of theatrical jazz dance, Cole trained in modern and East Indian dance and brought dramatic intensity to his work. His choreography for Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe fused exoticism, modernism, and sensuality.
- Jerome Robbins: Choreographer of ‘West Side Story’, Robbins melded ballet technique with jazz-infused storytelling, crafting dance as cinematic and emotionally gripping.
- Gus Giordano: Helped codify jazz as a technique and created an academic foundation for its study.
- Luigi (Eugene Louis Faccuito): Developed the first codified jazz technique after a car accident left him partially paralyzed. His lyrical, rehabilitative method focused on balance and “feeling from the inside.”
Evolution into the Commercial Era
From the 1970s onwards, jazz dance diversified. Broadway continued to be a stronghold, while television and film created new spaces for jazz talent.
Michael Bennett’s ‘A Chorus Line’ captured dancers’ lives through jazz movement.
Debbie Allen, a powerhouse performer and choreographer, brought jazz into mainstream media with ‘Fame’.
Paula Abdul and Tina Landon helped transition jazz into music video choreography during the MTV era, influencing pop stars like Janet Jackson.
Mandy Moore (not the singer): Known for her work on So You Think You Can Dance and La La Land, she blends vintage jazz with contemporary flair.
This commercial crossover made jazz more athletic and blended it with hip hop, funk, lyrical, and contemporary styles. It also opened doors for new generations of artists.
Brian Friedman and Tyce Diorio: Have pushed jazz into commercial arenas, choreographing for music videos, tours, and competitions.
Sonya Tayeh (choreographer of ‘Moulin Rouge’ on Broadway)
Australian talents like Stephen Tannos, Cassie Bartho, and Kelley Abbey continue the evolution with hybrid jazz styles seen in both concert and commercial contexts.
Why Jazz Dance Matters Jazz is the chameleon of the dance world—it adapts, fuses, and reinvents. From concert halls to stadium tours, its essence of rhythm, individuality, and storytelling continues to captivate dancers and audiences alike.
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Modern Jazz and Global Voices
Today, jazz dance is taught in almost every dance studio worldwide. Its style now branches into:
Theatre jazz – used in musicals like ‘Hamilton’, ‘Hairspray’, and ‘Moulin Rouge’
Commercial jazz – music video and backup dancer styles
Contemporary jazz – fusion with modern and contemporary movement
Why Jazz Dance Endures
Jazz dance is a living art—shaped by music, mood, and movement. It adapts to the moment, yet always honours its roots in rhythm and resistance. Whether on a Broadway stage or in a TikTok challenge, jazz continues to celebrate individuality, storytelling, and the joy of moving to a beat.
It’s not just a style. It’s a spirit.
