Quadrille

A quadrille is a square dance for four couples, popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. It's characterized by specific figures and patterns, often incorporating graceful movements and intricate footwork. These dances are typically set to lively music and are a display of elegance and social interaction. Originating in France, the quadrille spread throughout Europe and became a fashionable social activity, often performed at balls and social gatherings, reflecting the era's refined manners and aesthetic values.

Quadrille meaning with examples

• At the grand ball, the orchestra struck up a lively tune, and the dancers formed their squares for a dazzling quadrille. The intricate patterns demanded perfect timing, coordination, and grace. Each couple, elegantly dressed, moved through the dance with smiles and perfectly timed steps, delighting the onlookers. This quadrille showed grace and social etiquette from the time.
• Historical novels often describe the opulent balls where the quadrille was the highlight of the evening. The description included elaborate gowns and well-practiced steps. The dancers skillfully navigated the complex formations, each movement a testament to years of practice and social grooming, as described in the story. The quadrille set a tone for romance at the party.
• In dance history class, the professor demonstrated several quadrille steps. The students, fascinated by the history, tried to replicate the movements. Though the music was playing, the class struggled with the complexity, and the dance highlighted the social and cultural importance of the dance form, but also the difficult steps that were practiced. It was a challenging quadrille to perform.
• The choreographer used the structure of a quadrille to influence modern dance movements. Though, the classic quadrille was a thing of the past, the choreographer incorporated aspects of it. The dance showcased the historical influences on current dance forms, adapting some movements into her modern dance piece to build a captivating display. This was an exciting, new quadrille.