Ballroom Dance: Cha Cha Style

Overview of Ballroom Dance

• A type of social dance that emerged in Europe and the U.S.
• Typically performed by couples with defined steps.
• Distinct from folk or country dance due to its ties with elite social classes and formal dance events.

Cha Cha Dance

• A vibrant and playful dance that evolved from Cuban Mambo, gaining popularity in the U.S. during the 1950s.
• Characterized by triple chasse steps known as "cha cha cha" and rock steps.
• Incorporates a modified Cuban Motion hip action, enhancing speed and energy.

History of Cha Cha

• Originated in Cuba from a slower version of mambo called "Triple Mambo."
• Evolved by adding hip syncopation to the mambo's forward and back breaks, leading to the formation of the triple step.
• In 1948, Cuban violinist Enrique Jorrin created the first cha cha song inspired by the shuffling sounds of dancers.
• English teacher Pierre Lavelle introduced the dance to Britain after observing Cuban dancers, evolving it into Ballroom Cha Cha upon his return.
• Made its U.S. debut in 1954, replacing mambo as the favorite dance trend.

Timing & Rhythm

• Non-progressive dance that highlights Cuban motion, primarily recognized by the cha-cha-cha chasses.
• Danced on the 4&1 counts of music, emphasizing the "1" count.
• Time signature is 4/4 with a tempo of 30 measures per minute.
• Common timing noted as 1234 with a beat distribution of 1-1-1-1/2-1/2.

Basic Steps of Cha Cha

• Step left with the left foot to initiate the dance.
• Perform a backward step and leftward with the right foot.
• Shift weight to the left foot while keeping it in place.
• Move to the right by stepping with the right foot.
• Bring the left foot to meet the right.
• Sidestep right with the right foot.
• Step forward and slightly to the right with the left foot.
• Shift weight to the right foot while keeping it in place.
• Sidestep left again with the left foot.
• Finally, bring the right foot together with the left foot.