The Yale Ballroom Dance Team is a collective of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students who are passionate about the elegance of dancesport. Since 1988, we have been devoted to teaching and promoting a lifelong love of ballroom dance through professional coach lessons, seminars, competitions, and social dancing.
New members from all backgrounds are always welcome – no experience or partner required!
What is Ballroom Dance?
Ballroom dancing encompasses 19 competitive styles and numerous other social styles. The competitive dances are divided into International styles (Standard and Latin), and American styles (Smooth and Rhythm), which are mostly analogs of the International styles, but have different character and are danced almost exclusively in the United States.
In competitive ballroom dancing, dancers begin with a limited set of allowed moves. As they progress from Newcomer, to Bronze (beginner), to Silver (intermediate), to Gold (advanced), the syllabus for accepted figures for each style expands. Most YBDT members compete in all 4 styles.
International Standard
Waltz
Tango
Foxtrot
Quickstep
Viennese Waltz
International Latin
Cha Cha
Rumba
Samba
Jive
Paso Doble
American Smooth
Waltz
Tango
Foxtrot
Viennese Waltz
American Rhythm
Cha Cha
Rumba
Mambo
Swing
Bolero
Want to try it out?
Our team is open to all Yale students, with no audition or prior experience required. Fill out this form to get on the mailing list!
We teach lessons ranging from Newcomer to Silver. If you have previous ballroom experiences, our professional coaches can also help you advance your skills. Feel free to reach out for more info!
Fall 2024 News
As we return to fall, the excitement is just beginning! Make sure to check out YBDT at the EC Bazaar, join us for our Icebreaker Swing event, and don't miss our elegant Museum Ballroom Dance. Come dance with us and kick off the season in style!
Winter 2024 News
The YBDT spirit shines bright as ever! We're thrilled to share that our team brought home ribbons from the Holy Cross Crusader Classic, showcasing our passion and hard work on the dance floor. But the excitement doesn't stop there—catch our winning performances and various other showcases on our YouTube channel. Join us in celebrating these victories and watch our dancers light up the stage with their incredible talent!