Dancehall

What Is Dancehall?

Dancehall is a street dance style that originated in Jamaica in the late 1970s, evolving alongside the dancehall music genre pioneered by artists like Yellowman and later popularised globally by Sean Paul, Beenie Man and Vybz Kartel.

It is characterised by expressive, high-energy movements that emphasise isolation of the hips, torso and shoulders, often performed in a low, grounded stance with heavy rhythmic accents.

Unlike choreographed performance styles, Dancehall is deeply social — it thrives in dance circles, street parties and sound system events, where improvisation and individual expression are celebrated.

Dancehall in London

London has one of the most vibrant Dancehall communities outside the Caribbean, particularly in areas with strong Jamaican and Caribbean heritage such as Brixton, Hackney and Tottenham.

The style has grown significantly in mainstream dance culture, with dedicated classes now available across East, South and Central London, attracting both Caribbean communities and a broader urban audience.

Dancehall Classes in London

Dancehall classes in London typically cover foundational riddim steps, popular moves like Dutty Wine, Bogle and Skeloton, and social dancing technique to help students feel confident on any dancefloor.

Sessions range from structured beginner courses teaching specific choreography to open freestyle workshops focused on improvisation, musicality and cultural context.