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Latin Adult couple Kairat Algadaev & Julia Seleznyov at the 2024 USA Dance Nationals.

3D Partnership System Unveiled

By Bonnie Diaz
Contributing Author
Photo by Carson Zullinger
A possible paradigm shift in ballroom circles

In the dynamic realm of ballroom dance, a fusion of tradition and innovation perpetually propels the art form to exhilarating new heights. At the forefront of this evolution stands a revolutionary approach that is set to transform the landscape of competitive and social ballroom dancing: the 3D Partnership System. Crafted with visionary insight by USA dance member Bonnie Diaz, founder of Ballroomology.com, this avant-garde methodology promises to introduce immersive three-dimensional experiences for both performer and audience.

Bonnie Diaz — Photo courtesy of RJ Capak PhotoVideo

Ballroom dance, inherently designed to be observed “in the round” from all angles, demands more than flat visuals; it requires an engagement with space that envelops the audience in every movement. This is where the genius of the 3D Partnership System comes into play — a transformative leap from conventional techniques into a realm where every step taken on the dance floor resonates with vibrancy on all planes of movement.

Historically, stages have confined performers’ movements within defined visual parameters. However, as ballet-opera-theatre companies transitioned to raked stages for better spectator experiences, they inadvertently laid down a challenge for performers to project beyond physical limits. Ballet masters rose to this challenge with “Epaulement,” infusing performances with expressive depth through the nuanced shoulder, head, neck, arm, and core positioning. Inspired by such evolutionary strides in performing arts, Diaz’s 3D Partnership System adapts similar principles tailored for competitive and social ballroom dancing.

At its heart lies the Shared Axis — a concept revolutionizing traditional leading and following dynamics. It’s not merely about navigating a shared center point but embracing a fluid line around which dancers move in harmony. This axis becomes a dynamic force field allowing partners to rotate, shape, turn, and progress together without being bound by singular perspectives or dimensions.

The essence of adopting this system lies in transcending physical constraints through core placement mastery, intricate footwork precision, and emotional intelligence that breathes life into performances. It encourages dancers to visualize their movements in three dimensions — engaging body (skill set), mind (mindset), and spirit (life set/consciousness), resulting in unison for artistic expression that transcends mere technical prowess.

Stephen Hawking’s perspective on intelligence, “Intelligence is the ability to change,” parallels beautifully with Diaz’s philosophy, as she emphasizes adaptation is essential for growth both on and off the dance floor. Similarly, Albert Einstein’s celebration of imagination over knowledge resonates deeply within this system; it champions creativity as foundational for exploring uncharted territories in dance.

The inception of the 3D Partnership System marks not just an innovative chapter but potentially heralds a paradigm shift within global competitive and social ballroom circles. Its guiding principle urges dancers to redefine their spatial awareness — encouraging them not just to perform within space but dynamically interact with it.

As Ballroomology.com prepares to showcase this pioneering approach across international stages, it becomes clear that Diaz envisions far more than technique enhancement; her ambition is set on elevating ballroom dancing into an unfettered artistic spectacle appreciated from every angle.

Aspiring dancers intrigued by this groundbreaking method or seeking deeper insights into integrating these principles into their own practice are invited to explore the Ballroomology.com platform, which is dedicated not only to mastering dance but also to enriching one’s journey through life with organic expression.

In embracing the 3D Partnership System wholeheartedly — the body transcends its role as merely an instrument of movement; it evolves into a conduit for poetry in motion where grace under the spotlight’s embrace is felt profoundly by all who witness its elegance.

Bonnie Diaz’s 3D Partnership System is a call to arms for dancers worldwide to embark upon this transformative journey through life and across Ballroom Dance stages — in Proscenium arches framing our angles or Thrust stages extending our reach; ultimately finding our place in the round where every view matters equally.

This unveiling signals not just another step forward in dance innovation but beckons us towards reimagining possibilities where freedom of expression reigns supreme — guided by shared axes spinning like planets around rotating suns undeterred by conventional limitations.

To learn more about Bonnie Diaz and her innovative 3D Partnership System, check out Ready Set…3D Partnership System.  Readers are invited to visit her website at Ballroomology.com. You may also explore the work of Ballroom Barks at BallroomBarks.org and connect with Bonnie on her website at BonnieDiaz.com.

For more on “Partnering Skills,” check out one of the most popular articles in American Dancer’s recent years – The Shared Axis Center – The Fundamental Partnering Skill, by Patti Panebianco. 

Are you reading American Dancer?  You should!

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