Latin Dance

Latin dance generally refers to a group of partner

style dances that originated in Latin America but
have now been adopted and loved all over the
world! It refers to types of ballroom dance and
folk dance that mainly originated in Latin America.

Offering an outlet for rhythmic expression and

flowing, sensual movements, Latin dance
incorporates a number of spicy styles, including
rumba, samba, merengue and even bolero. Latin
dance is typically a partner activity but can also
feature groups of couples dancing together and
regularly changing partners.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
September 1, 1500

Upon the return of Amerigo Vespucci to

Spain from mainland Brazil, he reported
many ceremonial Latin dances he
witnessed being performed by natives.
These dances were foundational to many
styles of Latin Dance, and Vespucci was
one of the first to return with knowledge of
said performing style to Europe.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
January 1, 1517

Birth of the Claves

Claves are one of the key instruments used
in Latin American dance music as well as
its predecessor, Afro-Cuban music. Claves
are thought to have first originated from
the pegs used by Cuban shipwrights to
assemble naval craft.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
August 13, 1762

Africans Arrive in Cuba

The increase in Slave Trade traffic to Cuba
after the British Capture of Havana in 1762
brought about the advent of Afro-Cuban
music, ancestor to many forms of modern
Latin Dance music. The influx of African
culture mixed the percussion beats of
African music with pre-existing Cuban
pieces.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
1832

Discovery of Samba
In early 1832 a priest by the name of
Miguel do Sacramento Lopes Gama
described a style of dance he referred to as
"samba d'almocreves", eventually evolving
into Samba. This style of dance was
believed to have originated from African
slaves.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
1850

Formal Genres Take Form

Latin Dance began to develop into fully-
fledged genres, based on specific tempos,
measure, mood, and energy. Some
examples of Latin Dance include: Salsa,
Mambo, Merengue, Rumba, Cha Cha Cha,
Bachata, and Samba.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
1898

Birth of Merengue
The national dance of the Dominican
Republic and to a lesser extent Haiti,
Merengue came into existence around the
time of the Spanish-American War.
Merengue is a social dance that features
heavier foot movement than most Latin
Dances.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
1933

Birth of Salsa
Salsa first got its title just before World
War II, coined by the Cuban song composer
Ignacio Pnerio. Salsa is one of the most
well-known social dance styles in Latin
Dancing.
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
1953

First World Latin Dance

Championship
The first World Latin American
Championship took place in 1953, covering
six different Latin Dance categories and
bringing Latin Dance to the professional
stage internationally for the first time
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
1964

Fania Records Formed

Fania Records was formed in 1964 by
musician Johnny Pacheco and Italian
divorce lawyer Jerry Masucci. Their record
label, commonly referred to in Latin
America as "La Fania" became one of the
most influential record labels in Latin
American history, commonly referred to as
"The Latin Motown".
HISTORY OF LATIN DANCE
1964

Fania Records Formed

Fania Records was formed in 1964 by
musician Johnny Pacheco and Italian
divorce lawyer Jerry Masucci. Their record
label, commonly referred to in Latin
America as "La Fania" became one of the
most influential record labels in Latin
American history, commonly referred to as
"The Latin Motown".
 Types of Latin
Dance
● Salsa ● Cumbia
● Cha-cha-cha ● Jive
● Rumba ● Reggeaton
● Tango ● Kizomba
● Mambo ● Zouk
● Paso Doble ● Bomba
● Merengue ● Flamenco
● Samba ● Cuban Salsa
● Argentine tango ● Argentine tango
● Bolero ● Danzon
● Bachata ● Plena
Salsa
Salsa dance is a Latin
movement style that originated
in Cuba, but draws on
movement styles from around
the world. It's usually done
with a single partner, but
subgenres can make way for a
dance party involving a group
of people exchanging partners.
Salsa
Salsa dance originated in the 1960s
and 70s in New York City, blending
elements of Afro-Cuban and Latin
dances. Influences from Puerto Rican,
Dominican, and Cuban communities
converged in the vibrant club scene.
Salsa quickly gained popularity and
spread internationally, evolving into
various styles and becoming a global
dance phenomenon. Today, it remains a
dynamic and inclusive form of social
dance enjoyed worldwide.
Cha-cha-cha
-is a kind of Latin American dance of
Cuban origin. The cha-cha-cha, as it’s
sometimes called, is danced to the
musical genre of the same name. The
cha-cha dance grew out of several
dance styles, including danzón, Cuban
son, and mambo. The dance is known
for its quick steps, with the name “cha-
cha” evoking the sound of dance steps
shuffling on the floors of nightclubs,
dance studios, and other venues where
dancers practice this famous dance.
 Brief History of Cha Cha
- Originating from Cuba and popularized in the 1950s, Cha Cha has
since become a staple in the ballroom dance scene worldwide.

- The roots of Cha Cha can be traced back to Cuba, where it evolved
from the Mambo and Danzón dances in the late 1940s. Cuban
musician Enrique Jorrín is credited with the creation of the Cha Cha,
as he developed a new style of music that incorporated a steady
rhythm, making it easier for dancers to follow. The dance quickly
gained popularity in the United States and Europe, with ballroom
dance studios and social dance venues embracing the Cha Cha's
unique flair.
 4 distinct Characteristics of Cha Cha:

1. Rhythm: Cha Cha is characterized by its lively 4/4 time signature and
distinctive "one, two, cha-cha-cha" rhythm, which is both engaging
and easy to follow for dancers of all levels.

2. Movements: The dance features a combination of sharp and fluid

movements, including quick footwork, hip actions, and dynamic
spins and turns. This blend of elements creates an exciting and
visually appealing performance.
 4 distinct Characteristics of Cha Cha:
3. Playfulness: Cha Cha is known for its playful nature, with dancers
often incorporating cheeky gestures, flirtatious interactions, and
expressive facial expressions. This sense of fun and spontaneity
makes Cha Cha an entertaining and captivating dance for both
participants and spectators.

4. Versatility: While Cha Cha is rooted in Latin rhythms and styling,

it can be danced to a wide range of music genres, including pop,
funk, and even electronic dance music. This versatility allows
dancers to explore different interpretations and make the dance
their own
 Cha Cha Outfit
- Cha-cha-cha dancers wear a dress with ruffles on
it with bright colors. There shoes are usually the
same color as the dress and they are high high
heels. Men used to wear ruffles on the bottom
of there dresses and on there sleeves. Now they
wear a black shirt and black pants that are silky
or maybe a white top. During rehearsal guys
usually wear a form fitting top and Cha-cha-cha
solid dance pants with Latin shoes. During
rehearsal girls wear a skirt or dress and there
Latin shoes. For the performance usually the
couple will have semi matching clothes. People
typically wear skirts that are bright colors and
the top is the same colour as the skirt.
Rumba
The Rumba is considered to be one of
the most beautiful Latin style dances,
earning it’s nickname as “The Dance of
Love.” It is characterized by swaying
hips, a still upper body, and close
partner connections. Although it is
traditionally danced to slow Latin
music, it is now common to dance the
Rumba to current, popular ballads.
Because of this, the Rumba is a popular
style choice for a wedding dance and
slow partner dancing.
 Brief History of Rumba
- The term “rumba” encompasses various dance styles, including
those associated with Afro-Cuban music and the ballroom dance
form. These dances were influenced by both Spanish and
African traditions and originated in Cuba among African slaves in
the 16th century. The original Rumba was a fast and sensual
dance with exaggerated hip movements, reflecting the male
pursuit of a woman. It was accompanied by instruments like
claves, maracas, and drums. Over time, Rumba evolved into
different styles, such as Son, Danzon, and Guaguanco, with
varying tempos and refined movements. The American Rumba,
introduced in the early 1920s, was influenced by the Son and
gained popularity in the United States, partly due to its portrayal
in movies like “Flying Down to Rio” in 1933. Rumba’s popularity
also spread to Europe, with the “Cuban Rumba” becoming the
recognized version of the dance in 1955.
 Brief History of Rumba
- The history of Rumba Is a tale of cultural fusion and
evolution, beginning in the African slave communities of
Cuba and subsequently transforming into different
regional and ballroom styles. Its journey from Cuba to the
United States and Europe played a significant role in
popularizing the dance form worldwide. Today, Rumba
remains a vibrant and dynamic part of the global dance
scene, with its rich history continuing to influence
contemporary interpretations of the dance.
Tango
Tango is a partner dance and social
dance that originated in the 1880s along
the Rio de la Plata, the natural border
between Argentina and Uruguay. The
tango was born in the impoverished port
areas of these countries from a
combination of Uruguayan Candombe
celebrations, Spanish-Cuban Habanera,
and Rioplatense Milonga. It was
frequently practiced in the brothels and
bars of ports, where business owners
employed bands to entertain their
patrons. It then spread to the rest of the
world. Many variations of this dance
currently exist around the world.
Tango
Tango is a passionate and
dramatic dance that is
characterized by its close
embrace, sharp movements, and
sudden pauses. It is a dance of
seduction and tension, and it
requires a great deal of skill and
cooperation between the
partners.
There are two main styles of tango:
Argentine tango and Ballroom tango.

Argentine tango is the more traditional style

and is known for its improvisational
nature and close embrace. Ballroom tango
is a more stylized form of the dance
characterized by its sharp movements and
dramatic poses, and it is often performed
in competition.
 In addition to these, there are other styles such as
Show tango, Nuevo tango, Finnish tango.
 Show tango: this type of tango is performed for an
audience. It is often more choreographed than other
types of tango, and it may include elements of acrobatics
and theatricality.
 Nuevo tango: this is a newer style of tango that combines
elements of traditional tango with other genres of music
such as jazz and rock. It is known for its experimental and
innovative nature (unique brand by Astor Piazolla).
 Finnish tango: this type is popular in Finland. It is
characterized by its slow tempo and romantic melody.
Other variations also exist in other regions of the world
with its unique characteristics.
 Brief History of Tango
The tango’s early history is shrouded in
mystery, but it is believed to have developed from a
variety of different dances, including the habanera,
the milonga, and the candombe. The habanera was
a slow, sensual dance that was popular in Cuba and
Spain in the 19th century. The milonga was a fast,
lively dance that was popular in Argentina and
Uruguay. And the candombe was a religious dance
that was performed by African slaves in Uruguay.
 Brief History of Tango

The tango quickly became popular in Argentina

and Uruguay, and it soon spread to other parts
of the world. In the early 20th century, the
tango was introduced to Europe and North
America, where it became a popular social
dance. The tango also became known in Japan
and Korea where it is still danced today.
 Here are some of the key
characteristics of tango:
 Close embrace: The partners dance in a close
embrace, with their bodies pressed together.
This allows them to communicate with each
other through their bodies and to create a sense
of intimacy.
 Sharp movements: Tango is characterized by its
sharp and sudden movements. These
movements can be used to express a variety of
emotions, such as passion, anger and sadness.
 Here are some of the key
characteristics of tango:
 Sudden pauses: Tango is also known for its
sudden pauses. These pauses can be used to
create suspense and to emphasize certain
movements.
 Improvisation: Argentine tango is known for its
improvisational nature. The partners often
improvise their movements as they dance,
which creates a sense of spontaneity and
excitement.
 Tango Attire
Tango attire is typically elegant and formal, with a focus on
comfort and movement. For men, this typically means
wearing a dark suit and tie, with a white shirt. Women
often wear long dresses or skirts, with high heels.
However, there is no one right way to dress for tango, and
dancers are free to express their own individual style.
Here are some specific examples for tango attire:
 Men:
o Dark suit and tie
o White shirt
o Black or brown dress shoes
o Optional: vest, waistcoat, or cummerbund
 Women:
o Long dress or skirt
o High heels
o Optional: top, blouse, or sweater
o Optional: shawl, scarf, or other accessories
 When choosing tango attire, it is
important to consider the following
factors:
 Comfort: Tango is a very active dance, so it is important
to wear clothes that are comfortable and allow you to
move freely.
 Style: Tango is a very elegant dance, so it is important
to wear clothes that make you feel confident and
stylish.
 Movement: Tango requires a lot of close-quarters
movement, so it is important to choose clothes that will
not restrict your movement.
Tango does not typically use props. However, there are
some occasional performances or competitions where
props are used to enhance the performance.
 Here are some examples of props
that are sometimes used in tango
performance:

 Fans: are used to create a sense of drama or to

accentuate the dancer’s movements.
 Shawls: can be used to add visual interest or to create a
sense of mystery.
 Chairs: can be used to create a sense of intimacy or
create a sense of tension between partners.
 Tables: are used to create a sense of height or a sense
of drama.
 Here are some examples of props that are
sometimes used in tango performance:
 Fans: are used to create a sense of drama or to accentuate the
dancer’s movements.
 Shawls: can be used to add visual interest or to create a sense of
mystery.
 Chairs: can be used to create a sense of intimacy or create a sense
of tension between partners.
 Tables: are used to create a sense of height or a sense of drama.
When props are used in tango, it is important to use them in a way
that enhances the dance and does not distract from the dancers. The
props should be used to support the dancers’ movements and to
create a desired effect. Overall, this dance is meant to be performed
without the use of props since this is all about the connection
between the two partners and their ability to communicate with each
other through their bodies.
 Tango music is characterized by its strong rhythms and
passionate melodies. It is often played on the
bandoneon, which is a type of accordion that is popular
in Argentina and Uruguay. Tango music can be slow and
romantic, or it can be fast and energetic.
Here are some of the most famous tango musicians:
 Carlos Gardel
 Rodolfo Valentino
 Tita Merello
 Juan D’Arienzo
 Osvaldo Pugliese
 Carlos Di Sarli
 Anibal Troilo
 Astor Piazzolla
Tango is a challenging but rewarding
dance. It is a dance that requires a
great deal of skill and cooperation
between the partners. However, it is
also a dance that is incredibly
beautiful and passionate which is
enjoyed by people of all ages
Mambo
Mambo dance has a rich history and
background that is deeply rooted in
Cuban and Latin American culture.
Here’s an overview of its background:

Origin: Mambo dance has its origins in

Cuba, particularly in Havana, during
the late 1930s and 1940s. It developed
as a fusion of various Afro-Cuban and
Latin dance styles, including Son,
Danzón, and Rumba, combined with
influences from American jazz.
 Influence of the
Music:
The dance is closely linked to Mambo
music, a genre with lively rhythms
and syncopated beats. The
emergence of Mambo music, led
by artists like Pérez Prado, greatly
contributed to the popularity of
the dance style.
 The Dance
Mambo dance is characterized by its energetic, fast-paced
movements and rhythmic footwork. It involves quick,
syncopated steps, hip movements, and spins. Dancers often
maintain close contact and exhibit a flirtatious and passionate
style.
 Dance Fit
Mambo dance clothing is characterized by
vibrant, form-fitting attire. Women wear
colorful dresses, tops, and heels, while
men opt for button-down shirts and
trousers or suits. Both genders use
accessories and hairstyles that add flair
to their outfits, and the clothing is
designed for comfort and freedom of
movement during the energetic Mambo
dance.
 Spread to the United States: In the 1940s and 1950s, Mambo dance gained
popularity in the United States, especially in New York City. It became an
integral part of the Latin dance scene and was often performed in dance
clubs and ballrooms.
Influence on Other Dances: Mambo had a significant influence on the
development of other Latin dances, particularly Salsa. Many of the steps
and movements used in Salsa dance have their roots in Mambo.
Today, Mambo dance continues to be celebrated for its vibrant and lively style,
both as a traditional dance form and as a historical contributor to the world
of Latin dance. It is often performed and enjoyed by dancers and
enthusiasts around the globe.
Paso Doble
Paso Doble is a lively dance style that originated
in Spain and is often performed in ballroom dance
competitions. The dance is characterized by its
dramatic and passionate movements, which are
meant to evoke the spirit of a bullfight.

The history of Paso Doble can be traced back to

the early 20th century, when it was first
introduced in France. The dance was inspired by
the traditional Spanish bullfighting music and was
originally called "Paso Redoble," which means
"double step" in Spanish. Over time, the dance
evolved and became more stylized, incorporating
elements of flamenco and other Spanish dance
styles.
 Brief History of Paso Doble
The history of Paso Doble can be traced back
to the early 20th century, when it was first
introduced in France. The dance was
inspired by the traditional Spanish
bullfighting music and was originally called
"Paso Redoble," which means "double
step" in Spanish. Over time, the dance
evolved and became more stylized,
incorporating elements of flamenco and
other Spanish dance styles.
The dance is typically performed in a closed position, with the man
leading and the woman following. Here are some of the basic
steps of Paso Doble:
The Basic Step: The basic step of Paso Doble involves a series of
quick, sharp movements that are meant to mimic the
movements of a bullfighter.
The Promenade: The promenade is a classic Paso Doble move that
involves the man leading the woman in a circular motion around
the dance floor.
The Flamenco Taps: The flamenco taps are a series of quick, sharp
movements that are meant to mimic the sound of a bullfighter's
feet as he moves around the ring.
The Caping Walk: The caping walk is a Paso Doble move that
involves the man leading the woman in a series of quick, sharp
movements that are meant to mimic the movements of a
bullfighter's cape.
In terms of costume, Paso Doble dancers
typically wear outfits that reflect the
traditional attire of bullfighters. Men
often wear tight-fitting jackets and
pants, along with a wide-brimmed hat
and a cape. Women typically wear a
flamenco-style dress, which is often
brightly colored and adorned with
ruffles and other decorative elements.
Merengue
Merengue is a Latin dance and music genre
from the Dominican Republic, typically
performed at a brisk tempo, featuring quick
steps and a distinct two-step beat pattern.
The dance involves a close partner
connection with a basic step called the
"merengue march" or "walking dance,"
where partners move in a circular motion,
shifting their weight from one foot to the
other while maintaining a close embrace.
Merengue is known for its playful and
flirtatious nature, making it a fun and lively
dance style often performed at social
gatherings and Latin dance events.
 Brief History of Merengue
Merengue, the lively Latin dance and music genre, has its origins
deeply rooted in the history of the Dominican Republic. It is
believed to have developed during the 19th century, with its
roots tracing back to African, European, and indigenous Taino
influences. The dance and music were initially associated with
rural, working-class communities and were considered a folk
tradition.
Over time, merengue evolved and gained popularity,
particularly in the urban areas of the Dominican Republic. It
eventually became a symbol of national identity, and its
influence spread to other Latin American countries and the
wider world.
Instrument used:

 Accordion: The accordion is a

central instrument in merengue
music, and it often takes the lead
melody. Its lively, staccato notes
contribute to the energetic and
rhythmic nature of the music
Instrument used:

 Güira: The güira is a percussion

instrument that resembles a metal
scraper. It is played by scraping a
stick or metal rod along its ridged
surface, creating a distinctive
percussive sound that adds to the
rhythm of the music.
Instrument used:

 Tambora: The tambora is a two-

headed drum played with a single
stick and is the primary percussion
instrument in merengue music. It
provides the driving beat and
rhythm for the dance.
Instrument used:

 Maracas: Maracas are often used

to add a layer of percussion and
contribute to the overall lively and
festive atmosphere of merengue
music.
Instrument used:

 Saxophone: While the traditional

instruments mentioned above
are more common in traditional
merengue, modern merengue
music may also incorporate
saxophones and other brass
instruments to create a richer and
more contemporary sound.
 Outfits
Traditional merengue outfits are a reflection of the
Dominican Republic's cultural heritage, characterized
by a blend of European and African influences. For
women, the typical merengue attire includes a full,
flared skirt that often features ruffles, vibrant colors,
and intricate patterns. The skirts are designed to
accentuate the lively and rhythmic movements of the
dance, creating a captivating visual display as they
swirl and twirl around. The tops are typically off-the-
shoulder or sleeveless and are adorned with lace or
embroidery, adding an elegant touch to the
ensemble. Accessories such as large, ornate earrings,
colorful scarves, and flower headpieces further
contribute to the festive and eye-catching look.
 Outfits

Men's merengue outfits are no less

vibrant, often consisting of well-fitted,
light-colored trousers paired with a crisp,
short-sleeved shirt. The shirt may feature
embroidery or other decorative elements,
adding a touch of flair. To complete the
look, men wear fedora hats and
comfortable, polished shoes that allow
for ease of movement on the dance floor