The Gilded Court
The Gilded Court represents elegance, artistry, and tradition. This guild specializes in the refined worlds of Ballroom and Latin dance, where poise and passion come together in timeless forms of expression.
Dances of the Gilded Court
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Ballroom (Smooth): Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz
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Latin/Rhythm: Cha Cha, Rumba, Swing, Bolero, Mambo, Salsa, Samba, Paso Doble, and Jive
A Legacy of Dance
Ballroom dancing traces its roots to the grand courts of Europe, where waltzes and minuets symbolized grace, partnership, and social prestige. Over time, these dances evolved into the flowing Smooth styles we know today, celebrating connection and elegance.
Latin dance, born from the rhythms of Cuba, Brazil, and beyond, brings fiery energy and storytelling through movement. With influences of Afro-Cuban, Spanish, and Caribbean traditions, Latin dances embody joy, rhythm, and intensity—balancing the courtly refinement of Ballroom with spirited passion.
The Guild’s Philosophy
Members of the Gilded Court honor this heritage by blending discipline with artistry. To join is to walk a path where every step is more than movement—it is tradition reborn, and where grace truly becomes legacy.
The Wildheart Kin
The Wildheart Kin embodies freedom, passion, and the joy of dance born under open skies. This guild celebrates the lively world of Country Western dance, where every stomp, spin, and shuffle is filled with energy and community spirit.
Dances of the Wildheart Kin
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Couples Dances: Two-Step, Night Club Two-Step, Cha Cha, Triple Two-Step, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Waltz, and Polka
A Legacy of Dance
Country Western dancing has its roots in the folk traditions of America’s frontier, shaped by the meeting of European partner dances and the rhythms of fiddle, banjo, and country music halls. From honky-tonks to rodeos, these dances became a way for communities to gather, celebrate, and express themselves. Today, they remain a vibrant tradition—mixing the spirit of the Wild West with modern music and flair.
The Guild’s Philosophy
Members of the Wildheart Kin carry that same spirit of connection and celebration. To join is to dance with courage and joy, kicking up your heels while lifting up your heart.
The Timeless Order
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The Timeless Order honors tradition, heritage, and the artistry of dances that shaped history. This guild preserves the grace of historical cotillion dances, where movement is more than steps—it is a story passed down through generations.
Dances of the Timeless Order
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Grand March – a stately procession introducing dancers with elegance and unity
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Quadrille – lively square formations that inspired modern square dancing
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Gavotte – a spirited yet refined French court dance
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Polonaise – a sweeping procession dance of Polish nobility
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Minuet – the epitome of elegance, once the crown jewel of European courts
A Legacy of Dance
Cotillion and historical social dances rose to prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries, serving as both refined entertainment and a cornerstone of social education. Rooted in the ballrooms of France and England, these dances emphasized etiquette, poise, and community. Cotillion, in particular, became a cultural staple, teaching young ladies and gentlemen how to carry themselves with honor and refinement.
Today, The Timeless Order carries forward this heritage—reminding us that by bowing to the lessons of the past, we move with greater wisdom in the present.
The Veiled Flame
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The Veiled Flame embraces mystery, artistry, and transformation. This guild celebrates the world of Belly Dance—a dance of silk, rhythm, and fire that mesmerizes through grace and power. Here, movement becomes storytelling, balancing elegance with intensity.
Styles of the Veiled Flame
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Raqs Sharqi (Oriental Dance): The classical, stage form of belly dance, rich in expressive arm movements, isolations, and flowing veils.
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Tribal Fusion: A modern style blending belly dance with influences from hip hop, flamenco, and contemporary dance.
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American Tribal Style (ATS): Group improvisational belly dance with synchronized formations and strong, earthy movements.
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Folk and Regional Styles: Baladi, Saidi cane dance, Khaleegi, and more, rooted in cultural traditions and rhythms.
Props of the Veiled Flame
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Silk Veils – flowing fabrics that accentuate turns and waves.
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Zills (Finger Cymbals) – metallic instruments played while dancing, adding rhythm and texture.
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Canes & Staves – used in folkloric Saidi dances.
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Sword or Tray Balancing – dramatic props emphasizing strength and balance.
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Fire Props – candle trays, palm torches, or fans, where flame and movement merge.
A Legacy of Dance
Belly dance has ancient origins, often tied to Middle Eastern, North African, and Mediterranean traditions. Once danced in community gatherings and celebrations, it evolved into both social and theatrical performance, gaining international recognition in the 19th and 20th centuries. Through its history, belly dance has symbolized femininity, empowerment, and cultural exchange, enchanting audiences across the globe.
The Guild’s Philosophy
Members of the Veiled Flame honor this legacy by blending tradition with personal expression. To dance with the Veiled Flame is to embody mystery and transformation—where every veil lifted, every rhythm struck, reveals a fire that has always burned within.
