Latin-crazed dance in Auckland, NZ

Sexy. Sensual. Sassy. Latin dances have taken the world by storm. An expression of culture, this dance, along with the likes of belly dancing and hip-hop, has gained fans the world over. A lot of people seem to be drawn to this style of dance not only because of its liberating and invigorating effect, but also because it is easy to master. The different types of Latin dance utilize the same basic steps which makes learning the dances very simple.

The different Latin dances are the cha-cha, rumba, samba, paso doble and jive. The cha-cha is a very energetic dance that uses Latin songs (whether popular or rock tunes) and has its roots in the Mambo dance. It is one of the more popular dances done not just in international competitions, but also on the dance floors of some old dance houses.

The rumba is the slowest of the Latin dances and usually evokes a sexy, sensual feel. It is a romantic dance of love. This characteristic of the rumba has made it one of the most watched dances in international competitions. Dance partners usually engage in an amazing and powerful display of dancing prowess, while at the same time evoking feelings of passion and love.

The samba is another Latin dance which has become synonymous with Brazilian culture. A very festive and lively dance, it is associated with the Rio carnival and is a very fast and rich dance. Samba dancers usually wear elaborate and colorful costumes when they perform their routine. The music used for this dance is also very fast (one of the fastest in the ballroom dancing category) and is a real challenge to most dancers. The combination of fast and energetic music along with the fancy, colorful and lively costumes makes samba a treat to watch, especially on the dance floor.

Meanwhile, paso doble (which literally translates to ‘double step’ in Spanish) is a march-like dance whose music is used in bullfights. The music used for paso doble is usually the same music played during the entrance of the bullfighter to the arena, as he prepares to face off with the raging bull. Another type of music used in paso doble is the music used when the bullfighter is on his way to the kill in the bullfighting arena. The impressive tone of paso doble, music combined with its snappy and vigorous movements have made it a thrilling dance to watch. It is considered by many to be one of the most difficult dances in the Latin dance world.

Finally, jive is a Latin dance which traces its origin in the United States, courtesy of Afro-Americans. A variation of the jitterbug, the jive also has some country dance influences. It can be considered a happy dance, with its upbeat music and intricate and fast foot movements.

Learning Latin dances can be both fun and challenging, but they provide some of the best workouts. However, the best thing about of this type of dance is that it unleashes the sexy and wild side of every individual. Furthermore, it really enhances one’s dancing abilities.

Numerous dance schools in Auckland offer classes in Latin dances along with other forms of ballroom dance. Instructors come from the Latin American countries and are members of various dance/sport associations. One of the foremost dance schools teaching Latin dances is the Latinissimo Dance Studio. Other dance schools offering Latin dance classes are the Latin Rhythm Dance School, City Dance Recreational Studio and Viva Latino Dance School.

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