Our instinct tells us to express rhythm. Just as children bob their heads to music and senior citizens tap their canes to the beat, dancing comes naturally to both young and old alike. Some form of social dancing has probably existed since the beginning of time, moving from ritualistic dancing to social interaction for pure enjoyment. Modern ballroom dancing has withstood the test of time and is now more popular than ever. Both American and International style ballroom dances are divided into the following categories:


Rhythm:
Bolero . Cha-Cha . E Coast Swing . W Coast Swing . Hustle . Lindy Hop . Mambo
Merengue . Polka . Rumba . Salsa . Samba . Two Step

The Merengue, the national dance of the Dominican Republic, was created in the mid-1950s. With its simple steps and 1-2 march-like rhythm, it was rumored to be initially performed by the guests of a crippled general in the Dominican Republic who wanted to imitate him as he dragged his lame right leg across the floor! The Merengue is known for its liveliness, with a step on every beat, knee action, and wiggles from side to side. Since it doesn’t move around the dance floor, it’s perfect for small, crowded dance floors.


Smooth:
Foxtrot . Tango . Viennese Waltz . Waltz

© Fred Astaire Dance Studios, Inc 2005