Shuffle dance
High-energy step dance reported in English Chinese media as a newer style practiced in the same parks and plazas as guangchangwu.
About
Shuffle dance (often called the Melbourne shuffle in English Chinese press) uses quick heel-and-toe footwork set to electronic music. China Daily / Xinhua coverage describes it taking hold in Chinese parks and plazas as a newer form of "square dance" practiced by middle-aged and older groups alongside more typical guangchangwu repertoire.
Shuffle dance is related to guangchangwu by association and shared public-space practice, not by identity. It is a distinct movement vocabulary that some public dance groups incorporate.
Key facts
- Native name
- 曳步舞
- Also known as
- Melbourne shuffle
In field notes
Sources
- Energetic dance 'shuffles' across parksChina Daily2019-07-11