Foxtrot
The Social Foxtrot is a fun dance that was created in 1914 by a Vaudeville star named Harry Fox. If you listen to the music of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Harry Connick Jr., Michael Buble, and even Rod Stewart, you’ll recognize the Foxtrot – in fact, if you hear a slower piece of music played by a jazz or Big Band orchestra, and you can snap your fingers to the rhythm, you can dance to the Social Foxtrot. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Waltz
The “Waltz” is perhaps one of the most romantic of all the Ballroom dances. It originated from the faster Viennese Waltz and early in its history, was considered quite “risque” and was banned not only by the church but also by the court of Louis XIII (13) of France. The Waltz is danced in ¾ time and is a favourite at Weddings and Anniversaries. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Cha Cha
The Cha Cha is a fun and care-free Latin dance with a “Cha Cha Cha” rhythm that is very easy to pick out! You can do a lot of playful “teasing” with your partner, as well as to the audience watching you! For this reason, it’s a great party dance! Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Rumba
The Rumba is known as the “Dance of Love”, and it’s perhaps one of the most sensual and erotic of the Latin dances. Originating from African slaves who settled in Cuba during the 17th century, the Rumba reflects every emotion connected to Love and Passion. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Jive/Swing
The Jive originated in North America and was originally known as the Jitterbug. It has spun off a range of styles including swing, bebop, rock, twist, disco and the hustle. It’s a fun dance that is full of energy and youthful exuberance. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Tango
The Tango is one of the most dramatic of the Ballroom dances. It actually originated in the brothels and back alleys of Buenos Aires, but was made popular in the 20th century by silent screen star Rudolph Valentino. Passion and jealousy are words that best describe the character of this dance. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Salsa
Salsa is a fun dance that is popular at many Latin Clubs, and has its roots in Cuba but incorporates many influences from other countries, such as the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Puerto Rico. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Merengue
Merengue is a social Latin dance style that originated from the Dominican Republic. The basic “marching” steps were thought to have come from enslaved laborers working in sugar beet fields. As they were connected to one another by a chain strapped to their ankles, theyd had to walk in such a manner as to drag one leg. If you hear a piece of music that has a consistent “club” or “marching” beat, you can dance the Merengue. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Bachata
Bachata is a social Latin dance style that originated from the Dominican Republic. The basic steps consist of a “side-together-side-tap” and “pop or tilt” of the hip. Jose Manuel Calderon recorded the first Bachata song, “Borracho de amor” in 1962. The music usually consists of a mix of pan-Latin American style called bolero with African rhythms of the “Son” and troubadour singing. The Bachata steps can be used to many medium-paced pop music. Listen to sample music from our playlist.
Kizomba
Kizomba is a sensual dance that originated from Angola. The dance steps are a fusion of Bachata, Angolan Merengue, Angolan Semba, Cha Cha, Samba and even Argentine Tango – and primarily following a circular path. Ladies styling incorporate many hip rolls.