Latin Dancing
The term “Latin dance” can be used to describe the wide range of dances which have their origin in Latin America, Puerto Rico and Cuba that are danced socially and competitively around the world. Latin dancing can be categorised into the type which is done on the streets and the more structured forms, such as International Latin & American Rhythm (Latin) which are learnt in a systematic way in studios.
Whichever the form, the latin dances are known for their rhythmic qualites, sensual hip movement and are usually faster paced. In Latin dancing two individuals, typically a male & female dance as a partnership in a closed hold (that is facing each other with connection with both arms), a single hand hold or sometimes no physical contact. The dances have varied techniques, rhythms and tempos with spins and turns being a common feature. Latin dancing, as Latin music, is sultry and physical. Quick paced rhythms and playful movements make the various Latin dances endlessly entertaining, sometimes even breathtaking.
The origins of many Latin dances are colourful and can be traced back to the slave era of the 1500′s, when dancing to the rhythms created by drums or tapping of the feet was a way for the slaves to deal with their harsh conditions. The Samba, deemed sinful by Europeans in the 1500s, was the product of slaves bringing their African dances into Brazil. The Rumba, first accompanied by the beating of spoons and pots and the banging of bottles, was brought to Cuba by the African slaves. In the 1600s and 1800s, the fusion of African, indigenous, European and Latin cultures also influenced the development of Latin music which in turn influenced the dances.
There are many dances which can be described as Latin dances including new crazes which develop regularly, such as the Bachata which was created in 1961 and the Macarena which was appeard in the mid 1990′s. Both are derived from the music to which they are danced. When used in the context of International Latin and American rhythm the term is a bit of a misnomer as not all of the included dances have their roots in Latin America.
International Latin consists of the following five dances: Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, Paso Doble and Jive. Samba, Rumba and Cha Cha have Latin American origins, while the Paso Doble began as a Spanish folk dance and chronicles the moves a matador makes in a bullfight and the Jive developed in the 1940′s from the Jitterbug. International Latin dances (except for Rumba) feature very quick movement with a great emphasis taken to assure stable foot placement. Although the style often features straight and extended leg lines, the body remains grounded.
American Rhythm (Latin) consists of Rumba, Cha Cha, East Coast Swing, Samba, Bolero, Merengue and Mambo. All of the dances, except East Coast Swing, which has it’s origins in Jitterbug and Lindy Hop, have developed from the original Latin American Styles. American Rhythm dances (except for Rumba and Bolero) are generally faster-paced, more sensual, and have more rhythmic expression. Most dances use Cuban motion, where each step is taken on a bent knee, resulting in a delayed transfer of weight, which produces a more fluid movement.
These days the music used may be Latin American traditional or contemporary popular music. At Firefly Dance Club we teach both International Latin and American Rhythm (Latin).
If you are interested in learning International Latin or American Rhythm (Latin) you can do so through Private lessons or through our Group class program. American Rhythm (Latin) is included in our Dance Sampler group class, Get on the Floor group class and Accreditation Program classes while International Latin is included in in our 8 Week Series Classes.
- Talk to Firefly on 1300 725 977 and will be happy to answer any questions you may have
- Check the Casual Group Class Timetable or 8 Week Group Class Timetable for class times
- If you have danced International Latin or American Rhythm (Latin) previously ask us which class is right for you
