About Histoire de bal
What will you find on the blog Histoire de bal?
The blog Histoire de bal brings together the results of my research into ballroom dancing from the 15th century to the Roaring Twenties. You will find :
- Descriptions of historical dances;
- Portraits of emblematic personalities and works;
- Analyses of art pieces, books and poems to put old dances into context;
- Reviews of contemporary films, shows, books and CDs evoking historical dance;
- Practical advices and tips for dancers and dance teachers:
- NEW: a recording project and reconstructions of previously unpublished dances!
I also offer you instructions for five historic choreographies. In this clear and precise ebook, you’ll have all the information you need to teach these dances: steps, formation, music, style, and even links to quality recordings!
How can I help you?
I put my skills at your service in several ways:
- Historical and/or traditional dance workshops and lessons – all levels, all periods
- Dance master for balls:
- Historical dance
- Traditional and folk dancing
- Fantasy dance (Bridgerton, Steampunk and other utopias)
- Research
- Research suport for authors, directors, stage managers
- Conferences on history and dance
- Guest and scientific articles
You can find all the details and my references on the Activities page.
Why should you read my blog?
My name is Sandra Stevens. I’ve been practising ancient and traditional dance since I was very young. For over fifteen years I have been teaching dance and leading balls and workshops. I also create choreography for performance groups.
As a trained historian, I carry out my own research into the history of dance. Relying the original sources, I reconstruct the choreographies scrupulously, based on the original sources. I try to place the dance in its historical and social context.
- History Master’s degree from the Université Libre de Bruxelles (2012);
- Certified ‘dance instructor’ by the Dapo BC-BW (2009 and 2024);
- Choreographer and teacher with Compagnie Aliquam Amentis since 2011;
- Trained by renowned choreographers:
- Philippe Callens
- Carla Fabris
- Christine Grimaldi
- Susan de Guardiola (USA)
- Mône Guilcher (Atelier de la Danse Populaire)
- Yvon Guilcher (Atelier de la Danse Populaire)
- Cécile Laye
- Andrew Shaw (UK)
- Naïk Raviart (Atelier de la Danse Populaire)
- Yvonne Vart
- Régine Warlop
- Etc.
I don’t publish much, but I do publish quality articles based on my own research.
How do I subscribe, and why?
By subscribing:
- You will receive a free ebook, with explanations of five historical dances ready to be re-teached.
- You will receive an email (maximum once a month) when a new article is published
- You support the blog, free of charge!
To subscribe, enter your e-mail address here:
Acknowledgements
First of all, thank you, reader. Without you, there would be no blog, no dialogue!
Thank you also to all the dancers, choreographers, researchers, musicians, and organisers who have placed their trust in me.