Street Dance is an umbrella term which refers to many dance styles that originated in the USA in the 1970’s, becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Some of the styles associated are House, Hip-Hop, Popping, Locking, Liquid and Waacking, to name a few.
Street Dance was introduced to the UK in the late 1970s and early 1980s through film, television, and music culture. Influential media such as Breakin’ and Beat Street inspired a generation of dancers, leading to the formation of crews and the growth of street-based dance communities across major UK cities.
Throughout the 1990s, Street Dance developed further within underground scenes, clubs, and youth culture. It became an important form of creative expression, with freestyle, battles, and community learning at its core. UK music styles such as Hip-Hop, House, and UK Garage also played a significant role in shaping its evolution.
During the 2000s, Street Dance gained mainstream recognition through television, live performance, and increased access to structured classes. UKAdance created a syllabus that enabled a marked transition from informal learning to more organised training within dance studios and education settings.
From the 2010s to the present day, Street Dance has continued to grow as both a cultural practice and a professional pathway. There is now greater emphasis on technical development, freestyle ability, and understanding the cultural roots of each style. The UK has become recognised globally for its creativity and contribution to Street Dance.
Within UKAdance, we offer both Professional Qualifications and Amateur Assessments/Awards, supporting dancers at all levels of development. Students also have the opportunity to participate in performance events, including our Premier Festival held annually in October.