SALSA | MERENGUÉ | CHA CHA | JIVE | LAMBADA
Latin Dance Styles
Latin Dancing is a newer development. The dancing is fiery, sexy and full of rhythm. Rumba is a slow and sensual, Samba fast and with ever changing rhythms and body actions. Cha-Cha is the cheeky dance full of surprise and fast foot actions. Paso Doble is the story of the bullfight, full of drama. Jive is developed from Rock 'n' Roll the "American" dance, very rhythmic, full of fast turns and slick actions.
For competitive dancing, the latin dance styles are grouped into two main categories: American Rhythm and International Latin. The American Rhythm style consists of five dances: Cha-Cha, Rumba, East Coast Swing, Bolero, and Mambo. The International Latin style also consists of five dances: Cha-Cha, Rumba, Jive, Paso Doble, and Samba.
When comparing the two styles, the most obvious difference is that they each have some unique dances. However, all the dances in each style do differ from their counterparts, in subtle ways, mostly having to do with technique. You will find competitive events in each style. The following dances are related to Latin and/or Rhythm
WHAT TO WEAR FOR A CLASS
On your feet:
Try to wear shoes that will slide on the dance floor - ladies Court shoes are OK. You don't have to buy expensive dance shoes when you first start learning. Just make sure you don't wear joggers as joggers tend to stick to the dance floor every time you go to spin! Guys your standard type of black/brown shoes you would wear to the office or a wedding/party are fine - smooth soles are the best - remember no joggers if possible. Ideally leather sole shoes are the best!
Clothing:
Keep it casual! A pair of jeans, or dress pants are best for the guys and a skirt, jeans or pants are fine for the girls. Just make sure you are comfortable!
Deodorant is a must! Remember no ones likes dancing with someone who smells - unless they smell nice of course! If you are prone to sweating/perspiring a lot then please bring a hand towel to use during the class.