The cotillion is a type of dance from France invented around 1700 to be danced in pairs of four forming a kind of square. The cotillion was one of the many contradictions where the participants (especially those from the royal family) came together to present themselves socially as well as to flirt with the other dancers through the exchange of couples that takes place in this type of dance. During 1800 the cotillion evolved including more couples than they were added more complex dance formations being thus an ancestor of the cuadrilla. The American square dance is also a direct descendant of the cotillion. How to dance modern

In the United States, the cotillion ended up becoming a kind of training where both adults and children learn manners as well as rules of social behavior, all in a formal dance context. Participants usually wear a formal attire, sometimes even wearing white gloves. Today's cotillion still retains the forms of grouping its members in the form of pairs (sometimes called groups) thus breaking the initial inhibition that may come to appear. Some of the various types of dance included in the teaching of the cotillion are waltz, foxtrot, tango, swing, cha-cha-cha, as well as many other types of ballroom dancing. The groups are usually formed according to the skills presented by the different dancers after a couple of practice classes. At the time of the ceremony or party, students sit together at the front while the rest of the family members sits in the back. A master of ceremonies guides the evening and, if the budget allows, include a snack service and an orchestra to the ritual. Normally after each dance, one of the participating couples that stands out most for their dance skills will be fortunate to be recognized for this same reason with a simple yet emotional prize. Party and accessories for her

Today is often called a party with music and dance parties that take place on festive dates such as New Year's Eve or the day of the Three Kings or other events. At these parties, participants are usually given a bag (called a cotillion bag or simply a cotillon) which contains articles of decoration or disguise, or toys such as confetti, streamers, matasuegras, etc.

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