 | Foxtrot
This is one of the most popular slow dances. It was created by a vaudeville star named Harry Fox around 1912, during the ragtime era. It is a conversational dance that adjusts to both night clubs and ballrooms.
Waltz
The mother of all partnership dances, the Waltz dates back to Bavarian folk dances. When introduced in England in 1812, it was met with outrage, due to the fact that couples had to dance in each others' arms. The Waltz is a romantic and graceful dance that is still the dance of choice at weddings.
Tango
This unique dance is noted for its staccato, cat-like movement. Its earliest traces date back to the folk dances of Argentina; however, Brazil, Spain, and Mexico also claim its origin. This is a dramatic and expressive dance of seduction.
Rumba
A slow, sexy Latin dance that originated with the African slaves of Cuba more than 400 years ago. It was introduced to the US in the early 1930's and remains one of our most popular social dances. Rumba is an intimate, romantic dance that can be performed to most of today's popular slow music.
Cha-Cha
This "let yourself go" dance derived its heritage from two dances - the American Swing and the Cuban Mambo. This is a fun, fast Latin dance that can be performed to both Latin and contemporary music.
Samba
A fun, lively dance that was imported from Brazil. It is best associated with the unique musical sounds of Rio de Janiero. Popular on many cruise lines today, this dance has the unique characteristic Samba pulse and pendulum motion. |
Mambo
There is no escaping the Mambo. It is one of the most fun-filled crazes of any era. This dance is credited entirely to one man, Perez Prado, with his recording of "Mambo Jambo". First appearing in Mexico City, this revolutionary, energetic dance is also known as Salsa.
Western Swing
Originally a regional style dance from the west and southwest US, the western swing made it's bid in the late 1950's and has been gaining strength ever since. This dance is characterized by it's slower tempo and the use of slot dancing in which the man and lady change places with eachother. Western swing is a flirtatious dance that can be done to both country western and comtemporary music styles.
Merengue
The history of this dance is claimed by both the Dominican Republic and Haiti. This simple yet exciting dance has recently gained new popularity and is favored on many cruise lines. |
Bolero
Also known as "The Cuban Dance of Love", the bolero is a spot dance that utilizes many arm movements and facial expressions to contribute to the beauty of the dance. Bolero is an expressive dance and can be performed to many styles of music.
Swing
Originally called the Lindy Hop, the swing has transformed and developed into many different versions of the dance. Originated in the United States in the 1940's, swing continues to be the most popular social dance, and one of the most energetic.
Viennese Waltz
First danced in the courts of European Royalty in the 1800's. Written in 3/4 time, the Viennese Waltz in the only dance of that era still performed today.
Paso Doble
Originally intended for use at Bullfights when a Toreador was victorious, it dates back to many centuries ago. A very strong and aggressive dance, the Paso Doble as been a favorite since the 1930's. |
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