A Latin ballroom dance pair
Latin ballroom dancing refers to a group of dances that include Rumba, Samba, ChaCha, Jive and Paso Doble. Some people include Argentine Tango as a Latin Dance, but it is not part of International Latin Dance competitions. With the exception of Jive, these dances originated in Latin America and Cuba. As of 2010, they are popular in many parts of the world.
Description
Latin dances are known for the passionate interaction between the two dancers. The Latin and Ballroom Dance Association warns dancers that "when you dance the Latin style, be prepared for hot, flashy movements, sexy poses and fire-consuming passion. Latin dances are generally faster-paced, more sensual, and have more rhythmic expression."
Music
Latin ballroom dances are executed to different types of Latin music. According to the website DanceDanceDance.com, "The Latin music we hear today has its origins in Cuba where the blending of African drum rhythms and Spanish guitar evolved into a variety of Latin American music: Son, Danzón, the rhythms of Carnival, Cha cha cha, Mambo, Salsa.....even Tango came out of Cuba." U.S. soldiers were first exposed to Latin music when they were in Cuba during the Spanish-American war. Not long afterward, Latin rhythms were incorporated into the work of American musicians.
Competition
Although many people participate in Latin ballroom dance to exercise and socialize, others compete. Competitions are divided into professional and amateur categories. Important competitions are the World Dance Council and the Elsa Wells International Dance Championships.
Attire
Many people dress specifically for Latin dancing, whether they dance socially or in competition. Women wear tight shirts and short skirts while men wear tight shirts and pants. The tight clothes allow both partners to show off the lines of their bodies while they dance. Both men and women wear special dance shoes. Women wear dance shoes with a heel and open toe and men wear flat shoes. Both have special soles that make dancing and turning easier.
Latin Dance on Television
In an article for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Angela Prince, director of public relations for Dance USA, said that "The popularity of ballroom and Latin dance has been growing since about 2000, and television dance shows have boosted--not created--this popularity." Jean Marc Genereux, guest choreographer on America's So You Think You Can Dance and permanent judge on Canada's version of the television show, has brought increased attention to Latin Dance, having been the Canadian Latin Dance Champion 10 times.
