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Types of Dance:

Argentine Tango

Although the exact origins of the dance (and the word) are lost to legend, Tango originated in Argentina in the late 1800s.

Bolero

Classic Bolero, introduced in Spain in 1780, is truly the “dance of love”, and is performed to music featuring a constant beat of drums.

Cha Cha

A Cuban dance derived from the Mambo and Rumba; its name comes from the rhythm developed by a syncopation of the fourth beat.

East Coast Swing

East Coast Swing evolved from the Lindy Hop in the 1940s, and is perhaps the most famous American folk dance.

Foxtrot

In 1912, Vaudeville dancer Harry Fox was the first to use the “slow step”, danced to an exhilarating new style of music – ragtime.

Hustle

A more modern entry, this disco style was most popular in the nightclub scene from the late 1960s through the 1970s.

Jive

This style evolved from popular American dances of the 1930s such as Jitterbug, Boogie-Woogie, Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, etc.

Mambo

First introduced in Latin America in the 1930s, Mambo attained instantaneous popularity in American film and pop culture.

Merengue

Lore has this dance originating at a royal fiesta honoring a returning war hero, in either Haiti or the Dominican Republic.

Paso Doble

This dance dates back many centuries, and was originally intended for use at bullfights when the matador was victorious in the arena.

Quickstep

The Quickstep has its roots in 1920s New York City Ragtime, and only later became a partner dance.

Rumba

Characterized by a smooth, subtle hip motion and a heavy walking step, Rumba first invaded the U.S. in the early 1930s.

Salsa

Salsa combines passion, energy, sensuous style and joy, and has its origins in the Afro-Cuban dance, Rumba.

Samba

Of Brazilian origin, this festive serenade features a repetitive melody, continually interrupted by the strumming of a guitar.

Tango

The romantic Tango descended from an early Spanish folk dance, and features intriguing asymmetrical and sophisticated dance patterns.

Viennese Waltz

The Viennese Waltz was first danced by European royalty in the 1800s, and was deemed startling due to the close proximity of the dancers.

Waltz

The Waltz dates back to Bavaria 400 years ago, but it was not introduced into “society” until 1812, when it first appeared in English ballrooms.

West Coast Swing

With its sophisticated style and easy adaptation to contemporary rock music, this 1950s style quickly gained popularity in the U.S.

Bachata

Bachata is a sensual dance with Caribbean origins, where most of the dancers’ movements are in the lower body up to the hips.

Country Western

This uniquely American dance style developed during westward expansion in the 1800s, influenced by cultures from around the world.

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Benefits of Dance

Ballroom dancing is a perfect combination of physical activity, mental stimulation and social interaction – and it brings so much to your life. It’s a great workout; has many mental health benefits; can enhance your social life, reduce stress and depression; promote relaxation – and it’s so much FUN!! With all these great reasons to start dancing – we challenge you to find a good reason NOT to.

Ballroom dancing is that perfect combination of physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation, and it can bring so much to your life.

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