Welcome to The Winchester Historical Dancers
“Bringing Baroque, Georgian, and Regency dances to life”
Step back in time
Our dances span the elegant Baroque courts of the early Georgian period (1714–1750) through to the lively assemblies and ballrooms of the late Georgian and Regency eras (1790s–1830).
Whether you dream of moving with the poise of a courtier at Versailles or joining a country dance at a Jane Austen-style assembly, we welcome you to discover the grace, beauty, and fun of historical dance.
👉 No experience needed — just soft shoes and a sense of adventure!
Our dances are inspired by popular TV series like Poldark, Bridgerton, The Duchess, Catherine the Great, and Sanditon, capturing the grandeur, romance, and intricate choreography of 18th-century society.
A scene from Poldark (2015)
Aidan Turner and Heida Reed dancing together doing an Allemande turn. British social dancing had been greatly influences by France. Come and learn how to dance like a film star!
This film is set between 1781 and 1801. For some fun outtakes from the film click here
Queen Charlotte
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is an American historical fiction television limited series created by Shonda Rhimes for Netflix.
Look at the costumes and dancing from Queen Charlotte here
Pride & Prejudice | Dancing With Mr. Darcy and Mr. Collins at the Netherfield Ball.
Look at the costumes and dancing from the film here
What is Baroque Dance?
Baroque dance is one of the great innovations in dance in the 17th century originated at the French court under Louis XIV, and it is here that we see the first clear stylistic ancestor of classical ballet.
Watch this video of us dancing at Blenheim Palace.
Our Classes
We run classes in Hampshire, where all levels are welcome. But if you’re a total beginner then we offer basic classes to help you find the confidence you need to get to know the steps and dances. All you need are some soft shoes, no partner or costume needed. Just wear everyday clothes you can move in.
Dance and music offer a range of benefits, not just for the body but for the mind and emotional well-being as well. Here’s how they positively impact us:
1. Physical Health Benefits
- Improves cardiovascular health: Dancing is a great way to get aerobic exercise, improving heart health and stamina.
- Enhances flexibility and balance: Movements in dance involve stretching and balancing, which can enhance flexibility and coordination.
- Boosts strength: Dance routines often engage various muscle groups, building strength, especially in the core and legs.
- Encourages weight management: Like other forms of exercise, dancing helps burn calories, which can support weight management.
2. Cognitive and Mental Health Benefits
- Enhances brain function: Learning dance routines improves memory and cognitive skills, as it requires coordination between mind and body. This mental stimulation is even linked to lowering the risk of dementia.
- Improves mood and reduces stress: Dance and music release endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. They also help reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation.
- Boosts creativity and self-expression: Dance is an art form, and engaging in creative movements can help individuals express themselves in ways that go beyond words.
3. Social and Emotional Benefits
- Builds social connections: Whether in group classes, performances, or social dancing, engaging with others in a dance setting helps build relationships and a sense of community.
- Enhances emotional regulation: Both music and dance can help people process emotions. Dancing to music often helps people express feelings like joy, sadness, or excitement in a safe and productive way.
- Boosts self-confidence: Learning new dance skills or mastering choreography can enhance self-esteem. Overcoming the challenge of learning routines provides a sense of accomplishment.
4. Music’s Specific Role
- Stimulates brain activity: Listening to music activates numerous areas of the brain related to memory, emotion, and movement, leading to overall cognitive enhancement.
- Encourages emotional release: Music can evoke deep emotional responses, helping individuals process their emotions.
- Synchronizes movement and mood: The rhythm and tempo of music can influence how we move and feel, helping create flow and balance in our bodies during dance.
Together, dance and music offer a holistic way to improve physical fitness, mental sharpness, and emotional well-being, making them powerful tools for enhancing overall quality of life.
