Vernon and Irene Castle were a husband-and-wife team of ballroom dancers and dance teachers who appeared on Broadway and in silent films in the early 20th century. They are credited with reviving the popularity of modern dancing. Castle was a stage name: Vernon was born William Vernon Blyth in England. Irene was born Irene Foote in the United States.
Irene and Vernon Castle, c. 1912
A hands-free Tango step that the Castles originated; photograph from their 1914 bestseller Modern Dancing
Marguerite Martyn sketched the Castles dancing the maxixe in 1914.
Irene, costumed by Lucile for Watch Your Step, 1914
Ballroom dance is a set of European partner dances, which are enjoyed both socially and competitively around the world, mostly because of its performance and entertainment aspects. Ballroom dancing is also widely enjoyed on stage, film, and television.
WDC World Youth (Under 21) Champions 2013, Michael Foskett & Nika Vlasenko. Adjudicators in background are former World Champion & British Open to the World Champions: Anne (Lewis) Gleave (red dress) and Karen Hilton MBE (black dress).
Galliard in Siena, Italy, 15th century
Vernon and Irene Castle, early ballroom dance pioneers, c. 1910–18
Cha-cha-cha dance at competitions in Austria.