CUBAN DANCE STYLES

Originating in Cuba, Afro-Cuban dance is deeply rooted in African traditions and characterised by rhythmic body movements, expressive gestures, use of percussion instruments and spiritual elements, blending African and Cuban influences with vibrant costumes.

Cuban bolero is a romantic and melodic music style that emerged in the late 19th century. Characterized by its slow tempo, poetic lyrics, and sentimental themes, it blends Spanish and Afro-Cuban influences. Typically performed with guitar, piano, and percussion, bolero became a global phenomenon, shaping Latin ballads and romantic music traditions.

Originating in Cuba, and created by Enrique Jorrín in the 1950s, this playful, accessible dance evolved from Danzón and Mambo. It’s known for its clear rhythm — “cha-cha-cha-two-three” — and simple, joyful steps that suit all levels.

Cuban danzón is a refined and elegant dance style that emerged in the late 19th century, evolving from earlier contradanza traditions. It features a structured, graceful rhythm with orchestral accompaniment, often including flute, violin, and percussion. Danzón holds cultural significance in Cuba, influencing later dance genres like mambo and cha-cha-chá.

Cuban ladies' styling in dance is all about fluidity, confidence, and expressive movement. In Cuban salsa, women incorporate graceful arm styling, hip isolations, and intricate footwork to enhance their presence on the dance floor. The essence of Cuban styling lies in blending traditional Afro-Cuban elements with personal flair, making each dancer's movements unique and captivating.

Originated in Cuba, is a fast-paced partner dance characterised by sharp, syncopated movements and pelvic movement. Mambo is known for its energetic, lively, syncopated rhythms and quick footwork.  It became popular in the United States in the 1940s and 50s, where more energetic spins and lifts were added.

A contemporary Cuban music and dance genre, that fuses reggaeton with Cuban rhythms. It is known for its catchy beats and fusion of urban and traditional Cuban elements. 

Originated in Cuba, is a fast-paced solo or group dance characterised by sharp, syncopated movements and pelvic movement. 
A modern street style popular with Cuban youth, Reparto (short for música urbana del reparto) mixes reggaeton, timba and rumba. The dance is freestyle, often improvisational and high-energy.

A Cuban group dance where couples dance in a circle and execute synchronised partner dance moves called out by a leader. Couples switch partners constantly in a dynamic and fun way.

A Cuban dance with African influences, featuring sensual hip movements, intricate footwork, and improvisation elements. It comes in various styles: Yambú (slow or "cadencioso"), Guaguancó (flirtatious), and Columbia (male solo), each characterised by energetic footwork and expressive body movements. 

A subset of salsa dance, Salsa Cubana is rooted in Cuba. It emphasises circular movements and intricate partner work, with a focus on interpreting the music's rhythm and melody.

A Cuban dance and music style known for its lively, syncopated rhythms, often danced in pairs. It incorporated of Spanish and African traditions. It laid the foundation for modern salsa music and dance.

Timba is a vibrant and complex contemporary Cuban dance style. It incorporates faster footwork,  intricate partner patterns, and  syncopated rhythms, allowing for creative expression. Timba combines elements of salsa with Afro-Cuban and jazz influences.