The Cha Cha Cha
The Cha Cha Cha is probably the culprit most responsible for partners going their separate ways, with its variations that require no touching. But this dance of Cuban heritage and North American influence can be a great way to get back in touch. The feel is light and bouncy, and you can inject your own personality into the staccato beat. As in all of these instructions, partner’s step will be directly opposite.
The Waltz
The venerable Waltz is done to 3/4 time music with a light sweeping and gliding movement. One step flows smoothly into the next. Every step taken is to one beat of music. Keep your knees flexed always; lock-knee makes for jerky moves and heavy feet.
The Jitterbug
The Jitterbug began as the Lindy, growing out of the jazz tradition of the Charleston, Black Bottom, and Shag. While the basic footwork may look simple, a look at our dancers will show you how far you can let yourself go. Best done to the exuberant rock and roll music of the Fifties and early Sixties, try the jitterbug with your body relaxed and your knees flexed, and roll with the beat.
The Hustle
The Hustle is the contemporary dance that heralds the return of touch dancing. Originating in New York City among young Puerto Ricans, the hustle has quickly spread across the nation with perhaps as many variations as there are states. We will dance the basic hustle step. With it you can move in any direction, or stay in place, change hand and body positions. The footwork will remain the same, small steps only-perfect for a crowded dance floor. Groove with the beat, and who knows? Maybe there will be one more variation named after you.
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