For decades, ballroom dancing competitions have been dominated by heterosexual couples. However, this year’s Open Worlds ballroom championship in Blackpool, England is introducing categories for same-sex couples, in recognition of the growing visibility and popularity of same-sex dancing.
Trans and non-binary dancers are also permitted to enter whichever of the two categories they feel most comfortable performing in. Steven Greenwood and Mathew Nicholson, two male dance teachers from Australia, are among the same-sex couples competing in the championship.
The pair believes that the traditional roles of leader and follower in ballroom dancing should be more flexible, even among female-male pairings. They have been rehearsing tirelessly for the competition, which they describe as the “Wimbledon of ballroom dancing.”
Although same-sex dance partnerships are still relatively rare, visibility is increasing. In 2019, Courtney Act and Joshua Keefe became the first same-sex dance couple to perform live on Australian television when they competed in Dancing With The Stars. However, this year’s Open Worlds is the first time same-sex dancing has been included in a mainstream ballroom dancing event.
Greenwood and Nicholson hope to put a twist on the traditional ballroom genre by switching between leading and following roles while they dance. They believe that there are many varieties of relationships in society and that ballroom dancing should reflect this diversity.
The tower where the Open Worlds will be held has a rich history. Built in the late 19th century, the Blackpool Tower Ballroom once had a rule that “gentlemen may not dance unless with a lady.” Greenwood believes that ballroom dancing is a nostalgic tradition that is becoming left behind as society evolves. As same-sex couples challenge traditional gender roles in the ballroom, they hope to push the genre forward towards greater inclusivity and flexibility.