Welcome to the World Professional Latin Dance Competition, an exciting display of passion, precision and artistry! This prestigious event brings together the best Latin dancers from around the world, each bringing their unique style to the dance floor. Contestants will dazzle the audience with their impressive performances in various Latin dance styles, including Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive. With expert judges evaluating every intricate move and rhythm, participants are pushed to give their best. This competition not only celebrates the incredible talent and dedication of the dancers, but also unites fans and enthusiasts in a vibrant celebration of Latin culture and dance. Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with electrifying performances, fierce competition, and the spirit of unity through dance!
What is World Professional Latin Dance Competition?
The World Professional Latin Dance Competition is a prestigious event in the world of ballroom dancing, featuring the best professional Latin dancers from around the world. The competition, usually held annually, features various styles of Latin dance, including Samba, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive. Dancers compete in pairs, demonstrating exceptional skill, artistry and synchronization in their performances.
This event not only serves as a platform to showcase talents but also promotes the growth and popularity of Latin dance around the world. Renowned judges from the dance community evaluate performances based on criteria such as technique, musicality and creativity. The competition attracts top dancers, making it an important milestone in their careers. Winning or placing high can lead to increased visibility, sponsorship opportunities, and invitations to other elite competitions. The World Professional Latin Dance Competition is a celebration of the passion, dedication and vibrant culture surrounding Latin dance.
History of World Professional Latin Dance Competition :
The World Professional Latin Dance Competition, part of the broader competitive ballroom dance scene, has a rich history dating back several decades. Featuring the best dancers in Latin styles including Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive.
Key milestones:
- Origins: The roots of competitive Latin dance date back to the 20th century, influenced by the growth of ballroom dancing in Europe and America. Latin dance styles gained popularity through dance halls and competitions.
- Establishment of Competitions: In the 1950s and 1960s, organized competitions began to emerge, leading to the formalization of dance events. Major competitions were held in the United Kingdom and the United States, laying the foundation for international events.
- Formation of organizations: The formation of governing bodies such as the International Dance Federation (IDF) and the World Dance Council (WDC) helped standardize rules and promote global competitions.
- Growth in Popularity: The late 20th century saw a surge in interest in Latin dance due to television shows, movies, and increased accessibility to dance studios. This popularization led to more prestigious competitions.
- Current era: Today, the World Professional Latin Dance Competition is a highlight on the competitive dance calendar, attracting the best dancers from around the world. He often appears at major events such as the Blackpool Dance Festival and the UK Open.
Featured competitions and events:
- Blackpool Dance Festival: One of the most prestigious competitions in the world, in which Latin dance occupies a prominent place.
- UK Open: An important event on the Latin dance circuit, showcasing the best talents.
Impact:
The competition has significantly influenced the dance styles, standards and careers of many dancers, contributing to the evolution and popularity of Latin dance around the world.
Types of World Professional Latin Dance Competition :
Global professional Latin dance competitions typically include several different styles and formats. Here are some of the main types:
- International Latin: This includes five standard dances: samba, cha-cha-cha, rumba, paso doble, and jive. These dances are performed in a competitive environment and are judged on technique, musicality, and artistry.
- American Rhythm: This variation features dances such as rumba, cha-cha-cha, swing, mambo and bolero. While similar to International Latin, American Rhythm has its own distinct style and choreography.
- Formation Competitions: Teams of dancers perform choreographed routines in various Latin styles, judged on timing, formation changes, and overall presentation.
- Professional Rising Star – This category allows emerging professionals to compete in a less formal environment, showcasing their skills before moving on to higher level competitions.
- Showdance: This format allows dancers to perform a choreographed routine that incorporates elements of various Latin dances, often focusing on entertainment and creativity.
- Blackpool Dance Festival: One of the most prestigious competitions in the world, featuring world-class Latin dance competitions.
These competitions are held globally and typically have various levels, from amateur to professional, allowing dancers to progress in their careers.
World Champions :
Here’s the information formatted as a table:
| Year | Champions | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1960 | Roger & Micheline Ronnaux | France |
| 1961 | Bill and Bobbie Irvine | Scotland |
| 1962, 1963, 1964 | Walter Laird & Lorraine Reynolds | England |
| 1965 | Walter & Marianne Kaiser | Switzerland |
| 1966 | Bill & Bobbie Irvine | Scotland |
| 1967 | Rudolf & Mechthild Trautz | Germany |
| 1968 | Bill & Bobbie Irvine | Scotland |
| 1969, 1970, 1971 | Rudolf & Mechthild Trautz | Germany |
| 1972 | Wolfgang & Evelyn Opitz | |
| 1973, 1974, 1975 | Hans-Peter & Ingeborg Fischer | Austria |
| 1976 | Peter Maxwell & Lynn Harman | England |
| 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981 | Alan & Hazel Fletcher | |
| 1982, 1983 | Espen & Kirsten Salberg | Norway |
| 1984 to 1996 | Donnie Burns & Gaynor Fairweather | Scotland/England |
| 1997 | Hans-Reinhard Galke & Bianka Schreiber | Germany |
| 1998 | Donnie Burns & Gaynor Fairweather | Scotland/England |
| 1999 to 2007 | Bryan Watson & Carmen Vincelj | South Africa/Germany |
| 2008, 2009 | Michał Malitowski & Joanna Leunis | Poland |
| 2010 to 2019 | Riccardo Cocchi & Yulia Zagoruychenko | USA |
| 2020 | Title not held — COVID pandemic | |
| 2021 | Troels Bager and Ina Jeliazkova | USA |
| 2022 | Dorin Frecautanu and Marina Sergeeva | Great Britain |
| 2023 | Troels Bager and Ina Jeliazkova | USA |





