The Lexington Vintage Dance Society Inc

The Lexington Vintage Dance Society Inc is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of 19th and early 20th-century ballroom and social dance forms. The organization's mission is to research, teach, perform, and promote these historical dance styles.

Mission and Activities

The society focuses on historical dance periods, including the Regency, Romantic, Late Victorian and Turn-of-the-Century, and Ragtime and Jazz Age eras. They offer demonstrations such as "Dancing through the Ages" and "Folk and Traditional Dances," which often highlight the evolution of dance in historical contexts, such as those depicted in Jane Austen's novels[1]. The organization also provides programs featuring music composed by Kentucky musicians during the mid-1800s, showcasing dances like the waltz, polka, schottische, and mazurka[1].

Events and Performances

Lexington Vintage Dance Society hosts various events and performances, including social dances, workshops, and balls. They have been featured in media outlets, such as the Kentucky Educational Television (KET) and the Lexington Herald-Leader[1]. The society's performances are held at venues like historic homes, museums, and festivals, and they welcome participants with or without dance experience[1].

Community Engagement

In addition to its performances, the society invites people to join their dance troupe, which requires some dance background but not necessarily in vintage dance[1]. The organization's social dances are open to the public, promoting community engagement and interest in historical dance forms[1].

Notable Events

One of the notable events hosted by the Lexington Vintage Dance Society is the annual dance workshop led by prominent dance historians and instructors. For instance, an upcoming event with renowned dance historian Richard Powers had significant interest and quickly reached capacity[1].

Financial and Governance Details

The Lexington Vintage Dance Society Inc operates as a nonprofit entity with its financial and operational details available through nonprofit directories[4][5].

Conclusion

The Lexington Vintage Dance Society Inc plays a significant role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of historical dance in the United States. Through its educational programs, public performances, and community engagement, it fosters appreciation for 19th and early 20th-century dance traditions.