American Rhythm / International Latin
Cha Cha
It was introduced to the United States (originating from Cuba) in 1954, and by 1959 Americans were "gaga over Cha Cha", with dance studios reporting it to be their most popular dance. It is generally danced in a smaller area of the dance floor, and with North American influence, it has become a very exiting "let yourself go" type of dance, and can be danced to much of today's popular music.
Rumba
The Rumba is often referred to as "the dance of love". It is the classic of the Latin American dances, originating in Cuba. The Rumba is danced in a small confined area of the dance floor to slow music, and is characterized by a smooth and subtle movement of the hips.
Swing
The Swing, originally called the Lindy Hop, was born in the southern United States, and is the most famous American folk dance. Swing is a fast and fun dance that could be danced to the rock and roll from the 1950’s all the way to the modern pop songs of today. Without question, the swing will always be around.
Mambo/Salsa
No other dance from south of the border has ever attained the instantaneous popularity that the zestful Mambo did when it was first introduced from Cuba. Made popular with its club-like flare, this fun and carefree dance with its unlimited variety of movements, steps and spins it is one of the most exciting dances of all time.
Merengue
Since the 1930s Merengue is readily recognized as the national dance of the Dominican Republic. Whatever age the contagious beat causes the adrenaline to rise and you can imagine yourself dancing bare foot to the pulse of a Caribbean sunset.
Hustle
This dance is disco balls, flared pants and John Travolta all in one! Over the years it has developed into a fun and lively dance with lots of spins and turns. Being able to be danced to many popular songs of today, it is a must for any social dancer to learn.
Bolero
The Bolero was introduced to the United States in the mid 1930s. It is danced in a small confined area of the dance floor, and the step patterns are similar to Rumba but have a very different feeling. The Bolero is often called the Cuban "Dance of Love", because of its slow and dreamy tempo, and its beautiful melodies.
Paso Doble
The Paso Doble was originally danced after bullfights in Spain, and dates back to many centuries ago. After the bullfights, the villagers would dance to the exiting, lively music for hours to celebrate the victorious toreador. When dancing the Paso Doble, the gentleman usually portrays the toreador and the lady is his cape.
Samba
When the Samba was imported from Brazil into the United States in 1929, it became an overnight sensation. The intoxicating rhythm makes the Samba festive and lighthearted, and it brings to mind pictures of the "Carnival in Rio".