Cha-Cha
The Latin Cha-Cha is an offshoot of the Mambo and is a stepchild of the Swing as it is danced to a “1-2-3, step-step” rhythm. Cha-Cha is versatile in that it can be danced to authentic Cuban music, Latin pop or Latin rock. Cha-Cha is one of the five competitive dances in both International Latin and American Rhythm.
Samba
Originating in Africa and popular in Brazil, the Samba is danced at the local carnival in Rio. The Samba is lively and rhythmical with a “Samba Bounce” action and conveys a joyful, festive feeling. It is one of the five International Latin competitive dances.
Rumba
African slaves in Cuba originated the Rumba over 400 years ago. The Rumba is a sensual favorite characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a rather heavy walking step. It is the slowest of the five competitive international dances including the Paso Doble, Samba, Cha-Cha and Jive.
Paso Doble
The Paso Doble is modeled after the sound, drama and movement of the Spanish bullfight, though actually originated in France. The name Paso Doble means “double step” in Spanish. The dance depicts the leader being the matador and the follower representing the follower’s cape. It is one of the five competitive International Latin dances.
Jive
Jive originated in the U.S. from African-Americans in the early 1940’s and resembles a lively and uninhibited version of the Jitterbug. After WWII English instructors danced it to slightly slower music, making it a little more elegant. Jive is also danced competitively in International Latin.
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