ORIGINAL DANCE

The 'original dance' is a part of an ice dancing competition. It is usually the second of three programs, sandwiched between the compulsory dances and the free dance.
For the original dance, the International Skating Union designates a rhythm or set of rhythms each year that all dancers must perform to, but unlike the compulsory dances, the competitors choose their own music (within a specified tempo range) and choreography. The original dance could be compared to the short program in singles and pairs. The length of the program is shorter than the free dance, and the skaters have more rules they must adhere to. The dance must be choreographed so that the steps do not cross the midline of the rink. There are certain exceptions for this rule that take into account required step sequences such as the diagonal footwork sequence. Closed partnering positions and close skating is also important for the original dance.

Contents

List of original dance rhythms by season

References

List of original dance rhythms by season

The following is a list of senior level original dance rhythms.

Season	Rhythm
1995-1996	Paso Doble
1996-1997	Tango
1997-1998	Jive
1998-1999	Waltz
1999-2000	Latin Combination: Meringue, Cha Cha, Samba, Mambo, rumba
2000-2001	Charleston, Foxtrot, Quickstep and March
2001-2002	Tango, Flamenco, Paso Doble and Spanish Waltz
2002-2003	Memories of a Grand Ball: Waltz, Polka, March, and Gallop
2003-2004	Swing Combo: Jive, Boogie Woogie, Jitterbug, Rock N' Roll and Blues
2004-2005	Foxtrot, Quickstep, Charleston
2005-2006	Latin Combination: Meringue, Cha Cha, Samba, Mambo, rumba
2006-2007	Tango
2007-2008	Folk, Country

References

★ Original dance rhythms