Cuban Sala
Cuban salsa is a vibrant and energetic dance that will have you moving to the beat in no time! With its lively rhythms, playful partner interactions, and fluid body movements, it's the perfect way to let loose and have fun. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a beginner, you're sure to be swept up in the infectious energy of this Cuban cultural gem.
A History of the Infectious Dance
Cuban salsa, also known as casino, is a lively and energetic partner dance that originated in Cuba in the mid-20th century. The dance has its roots in Afro-Cuban rhythms, which were brought to the island by enslaved Africans during the colonial period. Over time, these rhythms evolved and blended with European musical traditions to create a unique sound that is quintessentially Cuban.
In the 1950s, Cuban musicians began experimenting with new rhythms and dance styles, fusing traditional Afro-Cuban music with jazz and other influences. One of the key figures in this movement was Enrique Jorrín, a violinist and composer who is often credited with inventing the cha-cha-cha, a popular dance style that would later influence Cuban salsa.
As Cuban music continued to evolve, so did the dance. In the 1960s and 70s, a new style of salsa emerged that emphasized circular patterns, playful partner interactions, and fluid body movements. This style, which came to be known as casino, quickly became popular throughout Cuba and beyond.
Today, Cuban salsa is a global phenomenon, with dancers and enthusiasts all over the world embracing its infectious energy and vibrant rhythms. The dance is often performed to live music played by a traditional Cuban band, featuring instruments like the conga, timbales, and trumpet.
One of the defining characteristics of Cuban salsa is its improvisational nature. Unlike other partner dances like ballroom or tango, Cuban salsa encourages spontaneity and creativity, with dancers constantly responding to the music and each other in real time.
Despite its popularity, Cuban salsa has faced challenges over the years. During the 1960s and 70s, the Cuban government cracked down on social dancing, viewing it as decadent and counter-revolutionary. However, the dance continued to thrive in private homes and underground clubs, and in the 1990s it experienced a resurgence as part of a broader cultural renaissance in Cuba.
Today, Cuban salsa remains a vibrant and beloved part of Cuban culture, as well as a popular dance style around the world. Its infectious rhythms, playful energy, and improvisational nature continue to captivate dancers and audiences alike, making it a true cultural treasure
Salsa beginners (Cuban Salsa #1)
If you're interested in learning Cuban salsa but have little to no experience with the dance style, a beginner level class is the perfect place to start. Here's what you can expect from your first Cuban salsa class:
What to Expect:
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A welcoming and inclusive environment, where you'll be encouraged to have fun and express yourself through dance
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A focus on the basics of Cuban salsa footwork, body movement, and partner work
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Patient and experienced instructors who will guide you through the steps and answer any questions you may have
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Opportunities to dance with different partners and build connections with other dancers in the class
What to Bring:
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Comfortable, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely
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Shoes with a smooth, non-sticky sole that allows you to pivot and turn easily
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Water and a towel to stay hydrated and fresh during class
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A positive attitude and willingness to learn and make mistakes
During your first Cuban salsa class, you can expect to spend time learning basic footwork and body movement, as well as practicing partner work with other dancers in the class. Your instructor will break down each step and movement and offer guidance on how to execute them correctly.
You'll also learn about the musicality of Cuban salsa and how to dance in time with the music, as well as the improvisational nature of the dance style and how to incorporate your own unique style and personality into your dancing.
At the end of class, you'll have the opportunity to socialize with other dancers and ask your instructor any questions you may have. Don't worry if you feel like you're struggling at first – everyone starts somewhere, and with practice and patience, you'll soon be on your way to becoming a confident and skilled Cuban salsa dancer.
Salsa Solo Fusion
If you're an intermediate/advanced level salsa dancer looking to take your skills to the next level, a salsa solo class can be a great way to challenge yourself and explore new movements and techniques. In a solo class, you'll focus on developing your individual style and building your repertoire of solo steps and shines.
Here's what you can expect from a salsa solo class for intermediate level dancers, open to both men and women:
Class Format:
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A dynamic and high-energy class, with a focus on footwork, body movement, and musicality
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An emphasis on building your confidence and creativity as a solo dancer
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A combination of individual drills and partner work exercises, designed to help you refine your technique and connect with other dancers in the class
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A supportive and encouraging environment, where you can explore and experiment with new movements and ideas
Techniques and Movements:
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An introduction to advanced footwork and body movement techniques, including spins, turns, and syncopated steps
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A focus on developing your musicality and timing, and learning to dance in sync with the music
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A deep dive into individual shines and steps, including cross body leads, body rolls, and turns
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Opportunities to practice styling and expression, and develop your own unique dance personality
Class Requirements:
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An intermediate level of salsa dance experience, with a solid understanding of basic salsa steps and partner work
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A willingness to push yourself and take on new challenges
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Comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and express yourself
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Shoes with a smooth, non-sticky sole that allows you to pivot and turn easily
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A positive attitude and a desire to have fun and learn new things
In a salsa solo class for intermediate level dancers, you'll have the opportunity to hone your skills, develop your own unique dance style, and connect with other passionate salsa dancers. With dedicated practice and a willingness to push yourself out of your comfort zone, you'll soon be dancing with confidence and flair, both on your own and with a partner.
Cuban Salsa Partnerwork
If you're an intermediate or advanced level Cuban salsa dancer looking to take your skills to the next level, a partner work dance class with renowned instructor Marvin Ramos Acosta can be an incredible opportunity to refine your technique, deepen your musicality, and connect with other passionate dancers.
Class Format:
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A fast-paced and dynamic class, with a focus on Cuban salsa partner work techniques and musicality
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An emphasis on precision, fluidity, and connection between partners
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A combination of individual drills and partner work exercises, designed to challenge and inspire you
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Opportunities to dance with different partners and receive personalized feedback from Marvin Ramos Acosta himself
Techniques and Movements:
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An in-depth exploration of advanced Cuban salsa partner work techniques, including intricate footwork, body movement, and lifts and dips
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A focus on musicality, timing, and connection with your partner, and learning to interpret the music through your dancing
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Opportunities to practice styling and expression, and develop your own unique dance personality
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Exposure to a variety of Cuban salsa styles and influences, including rumba, son, and Afro-Cuban dance
Class Requirements:
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An intermediate to advanced level of Cuban salsa dance experience, with a solid understanding of basic partner work and footwork techniques
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A willingness to push yourself and take on new challenges
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Comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and express yourself
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Shoes with a smooth, non-sticky sole that allows you to pivot and turn easily
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A positive attitude and a desire to learn and connect with other passionate salsa dancers
With Marvin Ramos Acosta as your instructor, you can expect to be pushed to your limits and inspired to reach new heights in your Cuban salsa dancing. Whether you're looking to compete at a high level, perform on stage, or simply deepen your love and appreciation for this beautiful dance style, a partner work class with Marvin Ramos Acosta is an opportunity not to be missed.
Salsa Lady style
Salsa Lady Style is a dance class that focuses on the art of female styling in salsa dancing. At City Dance studio in Vilnius, these classes are taught by experienced instructors who provide a fun and supportive environment for dancers of all levels.
During the class, students will learn various techniques for styling, footwork, and body movement that are specifically tailored to salsa music. The instructors will break down the movements and explain the proper technique to execute each move effectively. They will also provide guidance on how to incorporate these movements into partner work.
Salsa Lady Style classes at City Dance studio are conducted in a supportive and welcoming environment. The instructors are dedicated to helping each student improve their technique and confidence on the dance floor. Dancers can expect to work on their individual style and expression while also building their knowledge of salsa music and culture.
For those planning to attend a salsa lady style class at City Dance studio, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement. High-heeled dance shoes or comfortable sneakers are also recommended. Bringing a water bottle is always a good idea, as the classes can be quite physically demanding.
Overall, Salsa Lady Style classes at City Dance studio offer an exciting opportunity for female dancers to improve their technique and individual style in salsa dancing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, these classes provide a fun and challenging environment to explore the art of salsa dance.
