Dance styles
Tarraxinha
Tarraxinha is a sensual and intimate dance style that originated in Angola and has become popular in various Afro-Latin and Afro-Caribbean dance communities. This dance is characterized by slow and intricate movements that emphasize body isolations, especially in the hips and pelvis. Tarraxinha often features a close embrace between dance partners, with subtle, suggestive movements that create a strong connection between them.
The dance is known for its sultry and seductive nature, with dancers often maintaining eye contact and using their bodies to communicate emotions and desires. Tarraxinha can be danced to various genres of music, including Kizomba and Zouk, which provide a slow and rhythmic beat that complements the sensuality of the dance.
Tarraxinha requires a high level of body control and an understanding of partner connection.
Semba
Semba is a vibrant and rhythmic music and dance genre that originated in Angola, particularly in the capital city of Luanda. It is a key component of the cultural heritage of Angola and holds a significant place in African music traditions. Semba is characterized by its lively, syncopated rhythms, blending elements of African tribal music with European influences.
The dance associated with Semba is an integral part of the culture and is marked by graceful, energetic movements, often involving close partner interaction. It is known for its spirited and exuberant style, making it a popular social dance at gatherings, celebrations, and parties.
Semba played a pivotal role in the development of other music genres such as Kizomba and Brazilian Samba, reflecting the influence of African rhythms on a global scale. Today, Semba continues to be celebrated not only in Angola but also among enthusiasts worldwide, who appreciate its infectious melodies and the sense of community it fosters through music and dance.
Afrohouse
Afrohouse dance is an energetic and rhythmic style influenced by African and modern dance. It features fluid movements that often incorporate traditional African elements, such as hip shaking and footwork. Dancers are encouraged to bring their creativity to the forefront, allowing for individual expression and improvisation. This dance style is celebrated for its high energy, making it a perfect fit for the lively and celebratory atmosphere of Afrohouse music events and parties. Whether performed in groups or as solo acts, Afrohouse dance creates a powerful and visually captivating experience, deeply connected to the vibrant beats and melodies of Afrohouse music.
Reggaeton
Reggaeton dance is a dynamic and popular dance style that originated in Puerto Rico and is closely linked to the Reggaeton music genre. It is characterized by a blend of Latin and urban dance movements, showcasing a mix of hip-hop, dancehall, and traditional Latin dance elements. Reggaeton dance is known for its sensual and rhythmic nature, often involving body rolls, hip isolations, and intricate footwork.
The dance has become a global phenomenon, with its infectious and vibrant style featured in music videos, dance competitions, and dance classes around the world. It continues to evolve and adapt while remaining deeply connected to the cultural and musical roots of Reggaeton.
Son
Son dance is an essential part of Cuban culture and has had a significant influence on other Latin American dance forms, including salsa. It's a dynamic and vibrant style that continues to be enjoyed and celebrated both in Cuba and around the world.
Son music is characterized by its lively rhythms, syncopated beats, and a fusion of African and Spanish musical influences. The accompanying dance style typically involves couples dancing together with intricate footwork, hip movements, and playful interactions. Dancers often engage in a close embrace and use their bodies to express the rhythmic patterns and emotions conveyed by the music.
Pachanga
Pachanga is a lively and infectious Latin dance style that originated in Cuba in the 1950s. This energetic dance is characterized by its playful, fast-paced movements and a fusion of various Afro-Cuban and Latin dance elements. Pachanga is known for its quick footwork, intricate spins, and flirtatious, upbeat vibe. Dancers typically maintain a close connection with their partners and use small, rapid steps, often incorporating playful gestures and hip movements. The music that accompanies Pachanga is typically a mix of Cuban son, mambo, and cha-cha rhythms, creating a rhythmically dynamic and joyful atmosphere. Pachanga is a fun and social dance, celebrated for its exuberance and the connection it fosters between dancers. It remains a popular dance style in Latin dance communities and is frequently featured in salsa and Latin dance events.
Merengue
Merengue is a lively and rhythmic dance and music style that originated in the Dominican Republic. It is characterized by its fast-paced, upbeat tempo and a distinct 2/4 time signature. Merengue music is typically performed with a small ensemble of instruments, including the accordion, tambora (a two-headed drum), guira (a percussion instrument), and trumpet.
The dance associated with Merengue is equally energetic, featuring quick footwork and a close embrace between the dancers. Merengue dancers use a characteristic hip-swaying motion as they move around the dance floor. The dance's origins are rooted in Dominican culture, and it has gained popularity not only in the Dominican Republic but also in other Latin American countries and beyond, making it a vibrant and essential part of Latin music and dance traditions.
Rumba
Rumba is a popular Latin dance that originated in Cuba. It is a sensual and rhythmic partner dance that is characterized by its slow, romantic movements and passionate expression. Rumba is known for its intricate hip and body movements, which create a sense of intimacy and connection between the dancers.
There are two main styles of Rumba:
Cuban Rumba: This style is more traditional and is often performed in a social or competitive setting. It features a slower tempo, syncopated rhythms, and a strong focus on hip movement and body isolation.
Ballroom Rumba: This style is a more standardized and structured version of Rumba and is popular in ballroom dance competitions. It incorporates a box-like step pattern and a more formal posture, with an emphasis on maintaining a connection between the dancers while moving gracefully across the dance floor.
Rumba music typically has a distinctive Afro-Cuban rhythm with a pronounced beat, and it can be danced to a variety of songs, both traditional and contemporary. The dance is often associated with themes of love and desire, making it a passionate and expressive form of social and competitive dance.
Hip-hop
Hip-hop dance is a dynamic and expressive dance style that originated within the hip-hop culture in the United States during the 1970s. It encompasses a wide range of movements and techniques and is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic nature. Hip-hop dance is closely tied to hip-hop music and culture, and it has evolved into various styles, including breaking, popping, locking, and krumping, among others.
Key features of hip-hop dance include:
Groove and Rhythm: Hip-hop dance emphasizes a strong connection to the beat and rhythm of the music. Dancers often incorporate rhythmic footwork and body movements that sync with the music's tempo.
Isolations: Dancers utilize body isolations to control and move specific body parts independently, creating a visually captivating effect. This includes popping, locking, and robotic movements.
Freestyle and Creativity: Hip-hop dance encourages individual expression and creativity. Dancers often incorporate their own unique style and improvisation into their performances.
Breaking and B-Boying: Breaking, also known as b-boying or b-girling, is one of the foundational styles of hip-hop dance. It involves intricate floorwork, spins, and acrobatic moves performed to the beat of the music.
Street Culture Influence: Hip-hop dance is influenced by street culture, including fashion, attitude, and language. It reflects the social and cultural aspects of urban life.
Cyphers and Battles: Hip-hop dance culture often includes freestyle dance battles, where dancers compete to showcase their skills and creativity in a friendly, competitive environment.
Hip-hop dance has had a significant impact on the dance world, and it continues to evolve and adapt to contemporary music and trends. It is a powerful and culturally significant form of self-expression and storytelling, known for its versatility and widespread popularity.
Spinning class
Spinning classes for dance are not only a great way for dancers to improve their technical skills but also a fun and challenging workout for individuals looking to enhance their overall fitness. These classes offer an opportunity for dancers to refine their turning abilities, build strength, and gain confidence in their spinning capabilities, which are essential for many dance forms.
Salsa Casino and Rueda de Casino
Salsa Casino is a partner dance characterized by individual creativity and improvisation, while Rueda de Casino is a group dance with a structured choreography and a focus on synchronized movements and partner switches. Both styles are vibrant and enjoyable, and the choice between them often depends on personal preferences and the kind of dance experience one is seeking.
Bachatango
Bachatango refers to a fusion of two established dance styles, Bachata and Tango, where elements of both dances are combined to create a unique and creative hybrid.