Dance Center International

A smooth dance that travels around the line of dance. Characterized by its “rise and fall” action, the Waltz includes a step, slide, and step in 3/4 time. Dancers should move their shoulders smoothly, parallel with the floor instead of up and down. Dancers must strive to lengthen each step.

A dramatic dance style that is popular all over the world. It is characterized by a close hold, a low center of gravity and an emphasis on Contra Body movement. Movement is sharp, almost cat-like and has an unmistakable staccato feel and passionate attitude. The Leader's right arm is further around and lower on the Follower's back than in the other Smooth dances

Composed of fairly simple walking steps and side steps. The dance combines slow steps, which use two beats of music, and quick steps, which use one beat of music. The Foxtrot is similar to the Waltz in that it is danced smoothly, but in the American style Foxtrot, more 'jazzy' movements are added.

A classic dance style that is featured in many romantic movies and animated films. It is characterized by sweeping, graceful turns that rotate quickly around the floor. Although it shares many similarities to the slow Waltz, it is danced at a much faster tempo—twice the speed of the slow Waltz.

A playful and flirtatious dance known for it’s vibrant energy. Although it is traditionally danced to up-beat music with a Latin or Cuban beat, today it is common to dance the Cha Cha to many current styles of music including Top 40, Pop and R&B.

Considered to be one of the most beautiful Latin style dances, earning it’s nickname as “The Dance of Love.” It is characterized by swaying hips, a still upper body, and close partner connections. Although it is traditionally danced to slow Latin music, it is now common to dance the Rumba to current, popular ballads. Because of this, the Rumba is a popular style choice for a wedding dance and slow partner dancing.

A classic dance that is entertaining, fun, and versatile. It is one of the most popular of all of the swing dances and tends to be the easiest one to learn. There are many variations of the East Coast Swing and this dance is sometimes called by other names including: Jive, Jitterbug, Lindy Hop, Shag, and Charleston. Although traditionally performed to big band style songs, many are swing dancing to current pop and country tunes.

A slow Latin dance with roots in Spain and Cuba. It is a unique dance with Latin as well as Ballroom dancing characteristics. The sliding steps, soft hip motion and close dance hold make this a romantic and powerful dance style.

One of the most vivacious of all the Latin dancing styles. It is characterized by strong hip movements, rhythmical body actions, quick footwork and unique arm wraps and turns.

A unique style of swing dancing that has made a significant resurgence within the past few years. It’s a fun, improvisational style of dancing that even allows the lady or follower to “lead” on occasion. It is traditionally danced to slower, blues-style swing music, but many are dancing West Coast Swing to hip hop, R&B and pop music

A fun and energetic dance and is one of the most popular of all the Latin dances because it is easy to learn and is fantastic for all ages and dancing abilities. Salsa dancing has many fast turns, exciting footwork, rhythmic hip movements, and lively music.

An energetic and lively dance that is currently popular in many parts of the world. Syncopated rhythms, bouncing actions, and rolling hip movements characterize the dance. Originating from the carnival celebration in Brazil, this exciting dance is sure to make you want to get up and dance along!

A vibrant Latin dance that is extremely popular throughout the world. The Merengue is a fantastic dance for new dancers because it is very easy to learn! The Merengue is danced with “walking steps” with a step taken on each beat of music. While dancers typically use hip motions with this dance, the amount of hip movement varies with personal preference. This dance is considered to be in the same “family” as Salsa and is popular in the night club and social dance scenes.

A Latin dance that can be playful or sensual. It is typically danced at Latin dance clubs. This style is danced with soft hip motions, turns and side-to-side footwork. The music of Bachata is very recognizable for its predominant use of the electric guitar combined with Caribbean and Latin musical influences.