Dancing was used in ancient times to express joy and thankfulness to the Lord. The tradition carried on for many years, until it was forced out of the Christian church by the Reformation. In the 20th century, praise dance began to re-enter praise and worship services. Praise dance can be diverse, including traditional or modern ballet, lyrical and hip-hop dancing. It is performed to praise music. Dances can be spontaneous or choreographed, involving an individual or a group of dancers.
Praise dance is used in nearly every denomination of Christian faith. It is open to Christians of all ages and skill levels, and can be an occasional part of the praise and worship service or a mainstay of each service. A variety of competitions and festivals are available to praise dancers, giving it prestige both inside and outside of the church. Numerous praise dance companies throughout the United States, both professional and amateur, participate in these competitions and festivals. Classes providing instruction in praise dancing are available throughout the United States. Check with a dance studio or with church groups to inquire about joining or starting a praise dance class.
Traditional dance attire is usually form-fitting in order to show off the dancer's body and to highlight the dancer's movements. Praise dance attire is much more modest to deflect attention from the dancer's body. This keeps in line with Christian moral views as well as focusing the audience member's attention on the message of the dance. Liturgical dancewear often begins with a leotard covered with a cape or collar; a piece of loose-fitting material which drapes over the leotard. Skirts and pants are also loose-fitting. Some companies require dancers to wear clothing appropriate to a Christian setting.
While many consider praise dance to be a beautiful expression of joy and gratitude, some feel that praise dance has no place in a worship service. Some feel that the traditional worship service is the best form of worship, and that praise dancers interrupt this. Others feel that praise dancers are dancing out of pride rather than worship, and this may conflict with their religious values. Finally, some Christians believe that all dance is immoral, making praise dance an unacceptable form of worship to these people.
Praise dance is increasing in popularity each year. More dance schools are offering classes in praise dance, while more professional praise dance companies are emerging. Cities throughout the United Sates are establishing groups where religious dancers from all religions are welcome to express themselves.