American Indian dance American Indian dance exists everywhere in America and in every venue, from the most traditional and private spaces to those most public and accessible. Others showcase Native American dance on the stage, using the worlds of ballet, modern dance, or abridged versions of traditional dance. Since admission is rarely charged, and parking is often free, an audience from outside the local community is usually neither cultivated nor expected.
Most dancers learn by participating from childhood and continuing throughout their lives.
Nowadays, a few enroll in classes, take private or group lessons, or complete apprenticeships with master Indian dancers. Most either make their own dance apparel or commission it from friends and family, and few make any money practicing their art. In the Great Lakes the most common social dances are the Round Dance, Snake Dance, Crow Hops, and Two-step. Occasionally more individualistic dances such as the hoop, eagle, or partridge dances are seen. Dancers are generally judged on their overall participation, keeping time with the drum, stopping on time, and their regalia.