Rhapsodi Lifestyle Magazine

Learning the Sensuality of Bachata

The Story of Salsa Jamaica

Latin Dancing in Jamaica

Factors of Great Social Dancing May 2015

Experience the Joy in Latin Dancing u Iss

o.1 N e

Inspire

Editor’s Note Believe

Faith

Passion

Rhapsodi Lifestyle Magazine is about embracing life as is. Highlighting various dimensions of issues and events that exist within the shores of Jamaica. It was born from the passion of exploration and new discovery.

The word ‘rhapsody’ is described as an extremely enthusiastic emotional written or spoken statement.

It serves to delve into and share Jamaica’s hidden treasures, evoking thought and interest to its audience.

Jamaica’s culture and society is filled with diverse avenues that are just waiting to be brought to light and shown attention. Being around different people and embracing various styles of life in its entirety is what this magazine is about. Interacting with people from various backgrounds bringing their stories of growth, despair and optimism to the forefront.

While going through life, we learn that no two persons are the same, even twins contain diverse personalities from one another and it is from that difference that makes this world, this region and this country unique.

As you turn the pages of this magazine, I guarantee that you will uncover a reality that you may have heard of but never really thought about until now.

It is on that note that I say live life to the fullest, live without regrets and as a friend not so long ago reminded me, never under-estimate your capabilities. You can do anything you put your mind towards.

Live by a positive code and you will reap the rewards.

........................................................

Samantha Thompson Creative Director & Chief Editor

Contributors Creative Director/ Chief Editor Samantha Thompson Contributing Writers Shanoy Mattis Clinton Collier Chilly Alisar Ann Lapen Special Thanks To Jacqueline Thompson, Keith Anthony, Toni-Ann Lindo, Richard McIntyre, Sasha-gay Robinson, Joneil Alcock, Patreena Groves, Sheleena Williams, Matthew Hann, Derrick Fyffe, Bernard Rob, Sean Murray, Dance Jamaica, Salsa Jamaica, Latin Jamaica, Collectibles Shoe Store, OMG ABSolute Fitness Club, AFYA Yoga Studio, Jamaica Cultural Development Commission, Chantal Smith, Wesley Dixon, Tanya Davies, Megan Thomas, Andrew Smith, Jerome Shepherd, Jason Broomfield, Soumoya Mattis, Danielle Brissett, LatinDanceCommunity.com

To all the persons and organisations, who offered a helping hand, gave their support and helped to make this project become a reality.

Thank you for your contribution.

Printed by Genesis Printers

Contents 4 In the Dance 6 The Joy in Latin Dancing 10 Style it Up!

23 Updates of Latin Nights around Jamaica

13 Let’s Salsa!

25 Learning the Sensuality

of Bachata

16 Captured Memoirs

26 The Art of Kizomba

19 Merengue Motions

27 What is Kuduro?

20 The Story of Salsa Jamaica

28 Health Vibes

10 Rules of Engagement

14 Casino Rueda

30 Popularity of Latin Dancing

in Jamaica 30 7 Rules of Dance Etiquette 32 3 Factors of Great Social Dancing

Front Cover: Toni-Ann Lindo and Richard McIntyre putting their own style on salsa at the Waterfront in Downtown Kingston.

Back Cover: Kimiko Versatile and Laddy Mack representing for Dance Jamaica Cultural Centre.

Patrons having a casual dance

Rodolfo Montano & Alecia Caribe during a Bachata Performance at El Tumbao in Kingston, Jamaica.

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Courtesy of

In the Dance

Professional dancers performing at Dancers Republic Mango event.

Tropical Image Dance Company from New York City performing at Dancers Republic- Mango event held in Kingston, Jamaica.

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The Joy in Being able to dance is not just about showing off your skills and moving your body. Its a way of expression, to be in your own world and share fun and even intimate moments with others. Here are a few persons who shared their personal experiences of being able to participate in the joy of latin dancing.

Patreena aka Treena and Sheleena aka Shelly are two individuals that have grown through latin dancing. They met at the University of Technology, Jamaica where they coincidentally shared a personal interest in dancing and joined the UTech Latin Dance Club.

Shelly’s interest began after she watched the movie “Dirty Dancing”. From then she began researching about it and learning how to do it. It was after she began learning, that she joined the club. Treena’s first exposure was from high school where she learnt how to salsa dance and took part in various performances.

Shelly and Treena are both well- trained dancers and similarly they have both become accustomed to a variety of dance genres such as Kuduro, Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and Cha-cha-cha. As the famous quote says, ‘great minds think alike’, both ladies share a common favouritism for the sensual dance of Bachata. Treena’s loves for it stems from how easy it is to grasp as well as she enjoys “the feel of it. Its a very easy going dance and it has a nice style to it.” Shelly describes it as “simple and easy to learn. However, if you get a person who knows how to move your body into different styles, it becomes very sexy.”

Treena while describing her personal style as unique also refers to it as being stylish and smooth. Meanwhile Shelly’s style of dancing is crazy and sassy. The love for the dance is their motivation and having supportive friends makes a difference when developing the love for dancing.

Patreena Groves & Sheleena Williams

Toni-Ann Lindo Currently a final year student the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech), Toni-Ann is nothing short of a dance fanatic. She was initially introduced to latin dancing while a student at UTech through their Latin Dance Club held weekly throughout the school year. As she attended each class, her love for latin dancing grew more and more.

To date, she has been doing latin dancing for 4 years inclusive of Salsa, Bachata, Cha-cha-cha, Kizomba, Kuduro, Merengue along with a brief knowledge of the Tango. Though she is quite diverse in a number of genres of dance, Bachata is her true love. Initially Salsa had its place but after travelling abroad and being exposed to Bachata in a different environment, it took her to another realm and from then she has been hooked on it.

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Toni-Ann while describing her personal style as Spicy, defines dancing as “a way to express myself. Its a way to communicate without actually saying anything. Its the way to take part in something thats bigger than just saying a simple phrase or just doing a simple movement. Its you connecting with someone and feeling that beat together is just wonderful.”

Latin Dancing Richard McIntyre Richard aka Richie was first introduced to latin dancing through a friend. From his first encounter with it, he became interested in learning the steps and began taking classes taught by the well-known Keith Anthony. Being an intermediate/ advanced latin dancer within the span of 4 years, Richie has become diverse in a variety of genres.

These include Bachata, Salsa, Cha-cha-cha, Merengue, Kizomba and Cuban, all of which he loves and enjoys dancing to equally.

Dancing is “another form of language/ expression”. Richie’s attraction to the latin dance community was not only focused on learning his steps but to also admire the experienced female dancers. His main motivation however to keep dancing spurs from the advice from various persons continuously telling him to never give up. With what he describes as his ‘exotic’ style of dancing, he is now able to dance with confidence, poise and flare.

Sasha-gaye Robinson Sashga was introduced to dancing from the age of 8 years, where she attended dance classes at the Jessie Ripoll Primary School. From there, her journey into dance began blooming as she performed in festival competitions and went on to joining the Ashe Performing Arts Company to which she spent 4 years.

Her interest in latin dancing stemmed in 2008 when she was given the opportunity to be a judge at the Brooklyn Dancehall Queen Competition held in New York; an experience she describes as being “amazing watching another country with a different culture dancing like us and looking really great.”

During her stay in New York, she became friends with some latinos and was introduced to there style of latin dancing.

Upon her return to Jamaica, she began taking classes at the former Hilton hotel in Kingston.

Describing her personal style as being influenced through the African rhythms, Sashga is diverse in many styles of dancing including the Mambo, Bachata, Salsa, Merengue and Cha-chacha. Though she can’t choose a definite favourite out of the list, she describes Cha-cha-cha and Bachata as being sexy and fun.

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The Joy in Latin Dancing Cont’d Words of Encouragement Do you want to learn how to dance but your scared or skeptical to trying? Here’s some advice...

Just do it! What do you have to lose? You never know what tomorrow might bring and having an extra skill just like learning how to get a degree or learning a second language, learning how to dance is no different. Whats the big deal? Its fun, do it!

-- Toni-Ann Lindo My advice to persons who might be sceptical to learn the dance is why? Why are you afraid to dance, to do something you love. You will not turn your back on your culture you are adding another. The world is global. They are dancing and singing to our culture because reggae provides the sound of peace and dance hall provides physical expression of everything else.

--Sasha-gaye Robinson Be free. Latin dancing is like another language. It help with self esteem and indeed boost self confidence. So go out and dance! Have fun with it. Never mind messing up, its not a competition. Its just for fun. So have fun learning. Thats what I did.

--Richard McIntyre

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Try it first. I would say give yourself at least 3 months trying it and going to classes. If you don’t like it by then, then maybe its not your thing. I think it took me about 3 months to realise that this was going to be apart of my life forever. And, if your going to dance latin, don’t try to be somebody else, Be yourself.

-- Sheleena Williams Try it. Jump at it. It is something that you will love, catch easily and its something that you’ll definitely develop and realise that its fun. Its also good for men who are shy. Its a way to relate to someone, instead of having to talk to them and posiibly having nothing to say. You can relate to them in dancing and trust me, once you can dance, girls will like you.

--Patreena Groves

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Style it Up!

Fashion Feature

L

ooking for a place to find that dazzling dress or those sparkling heels? In being prepared to hit the dance floor, many (especially females) may contemplate on what to wear as a dance outfit. Dancing

is often done in a casual setting and therefore there’s no need to go too overboard when selecting a particular outfit. A nice fitting jeans pants with a simple but elegant blouse is just one example of what can be worn, after all it is casual dancing.

However when in performance mode, you want to ensure that not only does your dance technique and style stand out but that your outfit is on par and reflects your sense of flare.

Rules of Engagement You don’t have to be a fashion diva or fashionista to look and feel great when you go out to dance.

Keep it simple Try to avoid wearing clothes with too many outer attachments like studs or strings that may attach themselves to your dance partner. It may pose a challenge to detach or get rid of. Your outfit (whether male and female) doesn’t have to be flashy for you to be noticed on the dance floor.

Be yourself, enjoy the dance and your joy and movements will speak for themselves.

Wear comfortable footwear Ladies often feel that the higher the heel, the better the movement, which is not true. Your skill of dancing does not depend on external sources, it works from within. Therefore high heels don’t always have to be worn. In many salsa performances, the heels are often worn low. A low heel is worn in order for the lady to maintain a steady balance while moving.

Don’t get too caught in the ‘romance’ Many persons who go to a latin club, go to watch their companions and friends show their skills on the dance floor, while others go for the mere joy of dancing and interacting with people who share the same interest.

Bachata and Kizomba for example, are two forms of dances

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that requires one to not necessarily know one’s partner but to rather put their trust in them. In these dances, partners dance close to each other in order to create the sensual vibe that the music creates and move in unison of each other.

In the professional dance arena, persons are often playing a character when dancing with a partner and this concept applies similarly to dancing as an amateur. When dancing, one must portray being in the moment, for the dance to be executed smoothly with a partner. This means dancing close with one another for the bodies to flow and be as one.

Be reminded its just a dance!

If the person your dancing is just a friend then remember after you two are finished, the emotions end there. Its time to get back to reality.

Enjoy yourself.

Dancing is no fun if your not enjoying it. Don’t worry about who’s watching, focus on you and the person your are sharing the dance with.

Fu El sion Ph Gran L atin oto a : S Tum Per ean ba fo Mu o in rman rra Kin ce gst at y on

Casual Dancing at Salsa Jamaica’s Latin Night. Photo: Samantha Thompson

Garth and Kerry engaging in a cross-body lead while dancing.

Photo: Samantha Thompson

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Looking for that perfect footwear?

All shoe styles featured and more are available at Collectibles Shoe Store located @ Mall Plaza and Village Plaza, Constant Spring Road, Kingston

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Let’s Salsa!

History alsa is the most popular couples style of dance in the world. This dance is thought to have originated from the island of Cuba in the early 1900s. Cuban salsa is believed to have come from the son, which is a traditional music created in the eastern part of the country, mainly in Santiago de Cuba. The son has its roots in African drum patterns, as well as Spanish dancing which combined together influences the flavour of salsa.

S

Steps Salsa in its basic form is quite simple to learn. However while progressing through various techniques, that is when it may seem challenging to keep up. Salsa consists of dancing six different steps over music with eight counts. Depending on the sound of the music, the particular style of the dancers, and the actual salsa style being danced, different beats in the music are accented. For example, accenting the first beat is commonly called dancing on one.

Motion Salsa is very similar to other Latin dances, including the Mambo, as the two dances are made up of the same number of counts and steps.

However, dances such as the Mambo tend to have a feel of moving back and forth. Salsa has more of a side-toside movement. The motion of salsa dancing is often quick, and should look very smooth.

Turns Salsa can be danced simple, but is also enjoyable to do or watch when more complicated steps are involved. Salsa style dancing often incorporates many different turns.

These turns often help distinguish salsa from other types of Latin dancing. However, not all styles of salsa incorporate these particular moves.

Different Styles There are actually many different types of salsa dancing.

Each style developed in a different area with its own particular style. There are a few salsa styles that are widely recognized, such as the Linear styles, which include Los Angeles and New York style, Puerto Rican style, Miami style, Cuban style, Rueda style and Casino style. Cuban style is considered to be the most traditional salsa dance style. Each style incorporates slightly different steps and tricks, such as various turns, as well as different timing and accents.

Michelle Chan and Stephen Blake Photo: Samantha Thompson

By Ann Lapan, Demand Media 5 Facts of Salsa Dancing

FUN FACT: The dance evolved from the mambo and added the moves from swing dancing and the hustle. Cuban singer Celia Cruz mainstreamed the salsa movement in the United States when she started performing in New York City, earning her the nickname “Queen of Salsa.�

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Casino Rueda T

his style of dancing is a Cuban group dance that involves a group of partners in a circular position following various commands in unison.

The general rules involved when participating in this dance are that the dancers must form a circle and the right hand of the male partners must be inside the circle at all times.

In dancing the Casino Rueda, one must be very keen when listening to the type of commands being given and focus on when to execute each move so that everyone remains in sync. If you enjoy dancing to salsa, imagine the thrill of doing it with not just one person but with multiple individuals in a group. bye) and lots more.

Rueda de Casino, in its natural form, is an art of communication that require dancers to be alert and quick. During the dance, a leader calls out a combination of intricate steps followed by commands such as ‘adios’, ‘enchufla’ or ‘dame...’,which are patterns that lead to the dancers changing partners each time, thereby revolving around the circle.

The commands that are done are said in Spanish. Examples of a few commands include, dame una (give me one), dame dos con vuelta (give me two with a turn), enchufla double (plug in twice), siete con coco cola (seven with coco cola), adios (good

There are approximately over 150 moves that can be done in Casino Rueda, each with their own name and varied technique.

Being on the outside looking in at other persons participating in the Casino is simply incredible to watch. It is so enjoyable that actually being apart of it, makes the experience even more heartthrobbing.

Looking to explore the wonders of Casino Rueda movements-- check out http://www.salsalust.com/

FUN FACT: Rueda means “wheel” and Casino refers to the kind of turns and breaks that persons might normally see in ordinary salsa dancing.

Rueda de Casino can be described as Country and Western square dancing SALSA STYLE!

Contact the Embassy of Argentina in Kingston for further information at 926 5588 or 926 2496

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Captur M

Courtesy of

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red Memoirs

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M

Merengue Motions

erengue is the national dance of the Dominican Republic and to a lesser extent, of Haiti. In regards to the origin of this dance, there are a few popular tales as to how it came about.

It is believed that the dance originated from the time of slavery, when slaves were chained together at their ankles and were forced to walk with it. Another story alleges that the dance mimics that of a pirate that had a wooden leg. Whilst another tale alleges that it was a great hero who was wounded in the leg during a revolution in the Dominican Republic and during a victory celebration, everyone dancing felt obliged to limp and drag one foot.

Merengue is a very popular dance that is practised across the Caribbean and South America. In Puerto Rico for instance, merengue is thought to be one of the traditional styles of music and dance that is done on numerous occasions.

Despite the various stories that bring about their own interpretation, Merengue is one of the simplest latin dance that is very easy to learn and can be enjoyed by all.

FUN FACT: The word ‘merengue’ means whipped egg whites and sugar in Spanish

Michelle Chan and Stephen Blake Photo: Samantha Thompson

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f o y r o t The S a c i a m a J a s l a S

With Keith Anthony

Did you get any other formal training in dance?

No, not really. I took Tango classes once though.

How long have you been doing latin dancing for?

Well in all, it has to be about 25 years, first in Toronto then here. For the first few years though I wouldn’t really count it in because I was not good at it, I was still in the learning stages.

What type of latin dances do you do?

Cha- cha-cha, merengue, bachata, tango, salsa, those are the ones I pretty much focus on. The ones that have greater appeal.

Do you have a favourite?

Salsa. Actually as I’m progressing through Salsa, I’m really focusing on Tango again. Its a lot of emotion. I actually taught it for a little while but it didn’t go the distance that I had hoped for initially.

When did you begin teaching Salsa in Jamaica?

I think we’re going to be celebrating our 18th Anniversary in April. So its 18 years of Salsa Jamaica.

How did you start out in dancing?

I was living in Canada at the time and my girlfriend took me out for my birthday to a club called Berlin in Toronto. We were seated upstairs overlooking a dance floor and while we were eating, music started playing.

Then dancers came out and we were looking at them and we could see their skirts lifting up and the dance getting intense and I just couldn’t eat. She had to be reminding me to eat my dinner. I was blown away. So the next day they were having classes and we signed up.

At first, I was terrible at it. It was easier for her to catch on, she just followed the structure but I had this thing, this vibe, a ‘black’ thing I guess. I just could not shake it.

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What inspired you to take it to Jamaica?

I taught it in Toronto for a little while and it did well but I realised that after I started to teach, that I’m a good instructor, especially knowing that I had a hard time starting out in learning it, so I could relate to somebody stumbling and be very patient with them.

So I thought I want Jamaica to own this too. I wanted to teach it in Jamaica and let it come from Jamaica.

I thought when I finally started to get it because I realise that this rhythm that we have as Jamaicans, we could dance but theres more to dancing than just moving your body. It just hit me because I had intended to come back to Jamaica anyways, believe it or not, the company I was working for, I was there for almost 20 years and they were going to give me an early retirement so everything kind of fell into place.

So I said to myself, you know what? I’m gonna bring this back to Jamaica and when I flew down, I did my research and it didn’t exist and so I mapped out clubs and tried to get people on board to help me and

Keith participating in the basic salsa steps.

starting something and David left Jonkunno Lounge and went to Courtleigh so I went with him. So Jonkunno Lounge called me and asked if I would consider doing a latin night and I thought it would compliment at both lengths. I would teach it and then we would basically have another place to go to practise and dance freely. So we did that for a while and then the Courtleigh thing kind of dwindled out and I was at the front of the whole thing. Initially it was slow, very slow. In fact it didn’t go over as well as I had hoped. It was like a girl thing because the girls loved it but guys didn’t catch on to it well because it seemed too soft and too feminine. So it took me a while to let the men understand that they are in control. When we started performing after I got a partner, we started getting a lot of calls and gaining a reputation.

position, the tension (push and pull) and the lead and follow. Its not all about just doing spectacular things. I sometimes find that just the movement of the hands when performing for example, an audience responds well to as well as the ‘big wows’.

Do you make special preparations for teaching classes?

In the beginning I did, I had it all laid out but as it turns out, it couldn’t be more wrong because you have to rely on what you have.

You may have someone that learns very quickly and then someone thats dragging along and maybe somebody thats just in between.

a s l a S a c i a m a J

what not. Also I found that this particular style of salsa would go over really well here because its a ‘showy’ thing, its a show-off thing.

Its not just about having fun only and we as Jamaicans like to be seen and we like that the girls are important as well as the guys and its a couples thing. I focused heavily on that.

Describe a brief history of Salsa Jamaica When we first opened, only five persons showed up and three of them were my team. Right off the bat, I realised that I had to make it fun and make it not seem so structured. So often times I tell students that I want you to make mistakes. I want you to mess up.

I don’t want you to hold back because I made a lot of mistakes and I’m still making, so if you do make a mistake, I guarantee that I have made that mistake, so I can fix it. You will learn from your mistakes, especially if you do it and you don’t quit. Keep going.

I worked with David Borrelli, who was predominantly a DJ, for about 2 years at Jonkunno Lounge. Near that time the Courtleigh hotel was

Girls loved it but the guys were nervous to try it because it wasn’t what they were use to. It was very difficult for the guys because you had to be polite, be a gentleman, escort the lady to the dance floor.

There’s a lot of responsibility. The male has to handle with care. It was complicated at first, but after persons started to see it, it got better.

How would you describe your personal style of dancing?

I think I pay attention to a lot of detail. The way you hold your hands, the way you change

After a while you start to formulate your own agenda. My agenda is that with beginners you focus on the lower body, just legs and be in the dance position through out. We do that for as long as it takes. So I try to follow that agenda and as we progress, we get to the upper body with your hands and then after a while of combining the legs and hands, you move to intermediate and it goes on from there.

Do you find yourself focusing on certain components of the dance to promote the practice of it?

Yes, the finer details. The lead and the follow is very important.

Especially here in Jamaica because I have a goal. I see Jamaicans going out there with music, with dancing and we’re gonna take on the world, so that when Jamaicans go to L.A.

Demonstrating a technique to intermediate students

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f o y r o t The S a c i a m a J Salsa or New York which are the big ones.

If people say, where are you from?

We can proudly say Jamaica and their jaw will drop. So I focus on the finer details so that you stand properly, lead with firmness and confidence and the girls are not too gentle and dainty.

Where do you see Salsa going for the future in Jamaica?

My next objective is music. We must hone our own salsa music now. In Africa for example, they have an African salsa band, the African All-stars and I think they sing in African to salsa music. So I have taught myself how to be a musical technician and I try to use every formula that’s possible. The learning curve has taken years but I think I finally got it now. So your gonna see our own Salsa- Jamaican music coming out.

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What advice could you give to persons who might be interested but afraid or sceptical to trying?

Be afraid. But at least if you come to us to learn, we want you to screw it up and mess it up and we’re gonna laugh together and enjoy the fact that it was difficult for you or the fact that your coming in and your very good. There’s always new people coming in and though some may learn quickly, others are not so quick but the fact of the matter is that you will have a good time.

So if your intimidated by what you see, just come and check it out. I guarantee you will end up taking classes if you really want to learn.

Come once and you will be inducted into it. I promise you that.

Finally, what does dance mean to you?

It has helped me many times. I think its a great stress release. For

Doing the cha-cha-cha in a group formation

Demonstrating a front turn

me, its my ganja, its my ‘high’.

It protects me because when I’m really down I dance or I play my music or try and write something.

So it always gets me through the hard times.

Is there any additional information that you would like to add?

I think its important for Jamaicans to learn how to relate to each other as a couple. I don’t see couples walking holding hands anymore.

I don’t see any of that here. I’m hoping that this will at least bring us back to a point where we’re communicating with each other. If you notice in a lot of our Jamaican videos, there’s violence in there.

There’s always a man hitting a girl or a child being abused or something like that. I’m just hoping that this will make us realize that being a couple or even being in a group, we can work together. Being connected as a salsa community for example, we go out together to so many places and we never argue and we have fun. I think this will bridge that gap.

Updates of the Latin Nights around Jamaica KINGSTON * Latin Tuesdays By Latin Jamaica at ‘Escape Bar & Grill’ Knutsford Blvd, New Kingston Every Tuesday Class From 6:30- 8:30pm Party Til , with DJ Mark (Bernard Rob)- J$500 * Latin Classes at Club 808 - Liguanea Post Mall by Matthew Hann, Every Wednesday from 6:30-8pm, Visit Latin Fusion on Facebook for more info. Classes begin Wednesday June 17. * Salsa Jamaica presents Latin Nights on Thursdays at Puls8, On Trafalgar Road ,- Every THURSDAY ( DJ Keith & Verna) - From 6:30pm Til 2:00am, J$700 for Salsa Classes from 6:30 to 8:30pm Free entry * Latin Nights at Cafe Delite, 9 Haining Road, New Kingston, Every Saturdays Classes are $400 from 7-9pm, free entry after 9 ‘til, Hosted by Rashida * Salsa on Saturday (SOS) at Off The Hook Restaurant, 17 Holborn Road, New KingstonEvery Saturday from 9pm until,Entry $500 - Promoter & DJ Oneil * Latin Night at Medusa Bar Liguanea, (Sandy Park Road Off Hope Road)- Every Other SATURDAY From 10 pm til, Music by DJ Rey Diaz

PORTMORE

* Latin Night at OMG ABSolute Fitness Club, 6 Hellshire Main Road- Rajmaville Portmore.

Every Friday starting in June. Visit OMG ABSolute Fitness Club on facebook for details

LINSTEAD

* Latin Night at, Rhapsody Restaurant Jerk Centre & Bar, Bog Walk bypass across from Car Wash & Laundromat, - Every Thursday, - Latin Classes from 6pm to 8pm, party afert til- , Promoter & Instructor: Derrick 590 0300

MONTEGO BAY

*South Beach Saturday @ Seawind Beach Club, Montego Bay - Saturdays, Music By DJ Alexis (DJ Irie Latino) From 10pm- Til ONCE A MONTH LATIN PARTY (Dates for each month to be announced) check Irie Latino on facebook

FOLLOW SALSA SOCIETY JAMAICA ON FACEBOOK FOR THE LATEST LATIN EVENTS AROUND JAMAICA Email: salsasocietyjamaica@gmail.com Facebook Group & Page: Salsa Society Jamaica

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Toni-Ann Lindo and Richard McIntyre

Learning the Sensuality of Bachata Written By: Shanoy Mattis The vibration of the tantalizing motion of the renowned Bachata is one that has been embedded into the hearts of many in the Caribbean. This style of dancing originated from the Dominican Republic.

The word Bachata means “party” or “social meeting”. This name was derived as a result of it being associated with parties in the City of Santo Domingo in the beginning.

Many people treated the dynamics of the dance as a way of life and not as just a dance.

The Bachata dance was influenced by the Cuban Bolero and the Merengue which were also developed in the Dominican Republic.

In the 60s where everything all began, Bachata was danced only closed like the bolero. Its basic steps included movements within a small square which is side, side, forward and side, side and back. Ultimately, the syncopation of the dance has been dependent on the dynamics of the music being played.

Bachata may be danced in a twohand hold party style, the open embrace social style or the close embrace nightclub style.

The authentic Bachata today which is danced both in the Caribbean and all over the world has four beats per measure. The dancer takes three steps to four beats of music.

Similarly, to Salsa, the timing of each step is three steps followed by a one-beat pause. The knees should be flexed on the steps. As a result of its humble beginnings, the steps are made without the wearing of heels.

FUN FACT: In the 1960s, Bachata was known as the Music of Bitterness due to its origin of being developed from the poorer class of society. Nowadays, Bachata has been transformed into the music of romance and love.

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The Art of Kizomba Sexy.

T

Intense.

Bold.

hese are just a few of the words used to describe the stylings of Kizomba. This Angolan style of dance has been on the rise for quite some time now in the latin dance scene in Jamaica. The word Kizomba means “party” in the Kimbundu language. Kimbundo is one of the most widely spoken languages in Angola within the ethnic group called Bantu.

The Angolan expression ‘Kizombadas’ in the 50’s referred to a big party, but there was no link with the dance nor with the music as we know it today.

Where as years ago, Kizomba was mainly known and practised in Portuguese speaking countries such as Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissa and Brazil just to name a few, this dance genre has gained tremendous popularity across the world. Due to its increasing popularity, Kizomba can now be found in countries across the globe such as Belgium, the United Kingdom, Spain, The Netherlands, France, the U.S. And the Caribbean. This bold and sensual dance is quite captivating to watch. With its romantic rhythm and soulful movement, Kizomba can capture the attention of any person just passing by.

Rashida and Vonroy sharing a dance together.

Photo by Sean Murray

The technique involved when dancing Kizomba contains similar elements to that of Tango. The Kizomba dance is viewed as an evolution of the traditional Angolan dance Semba. In the 90s when Kizomba began getting more recognition, Semba dancers started to adopt their steps to the tempo of the Kizomba beats. As time went by, Kizomba began to come into a form of its own with the movements being developed and formalised.

Kizomba like bachata, involves unison movement of two people being in close proximity to one another.

It stimulates passion and evokes a certain sense of romance whether you are the one doing the dance or on the outside looking in. This dance is highly suited for couples as it evokes passion and poise to its admirers.

FUN FACT:

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Kizomba is sometimes described as the “African tango”. Plus in Angola, a distinction is not made between Kizomba dance and Semba however, there is a huge difference between Kizomba music and Semba music.

What is Kuduro?

K

uduro is a music and dance genre originated from Angola in the 1990’s. The music is very energetic and has an up-tempo. Kuduro is a word from the Kimbundu language which can be translated as “hard bottom”.

Some people consider Kuduro music as the Angolan House or Techno music. However, this is actually not really the case because Kuduro is rather a mix of difference rhythms: Kuduro music combines traditional Angolan carnival music, Kabetula, Kasukuta, Semba, Rebita and Kilapanga.

dancing. Kuduro movements are usually fast and often very funny. The funnier your Kuduro movement the better.

When Angolan women dance Kuduro, the focus is on moving the hips and the bottom in a very special energetic way which is only possible with a lot of practice. When the hip movements done by the woman are exaggerated thea dance can look a bit vulgar in the eye of other cultures. Angolan young men focus on their leg movements accompanied with very funny hand and head moves.

Kuduro is danced individually or in group formation. In Angola it’s mostly danced by the young generation.

The dance is a mix of steps from, Sungura, Kabetula, Kasukuta, Bungula, Break and Rap. It has also new steps invented by the young people in Angola. Congolese dances have also influenced Kuduro

When Kuduro music is played during events or parties, Angolans enjoy doing their most preferred Kuduro steps or simply dancing what we call “dança da familia” (family dance).

Today, Kuduro is not only played

The following was an exert retrieved from José N’dongala Kizombalove Methodology teachers course - KIZOMBA TEACHERS COURSE, p. 79-80

in Angola, but also in Europe and in America. The music is gaining more and more popularity just as it is the case with Kizomba.

FUN FACT: Danza Kuduro! Name sound familiar.

Danza Kuduro meaning dance to kuduro is the title of a popular Kuduro song done by reggaeton artistes Don Omar and Lucenzo in 2011. This single was featured on the soundtrack of Fast-Five (Fast and Furious). Don Omar is also apart of the cast of Fast and Furious starring as Rico Santos.

Health Vibes Do you want to lose some weight and have fun at the same time?

Why not try dancing your way to fitness!

D

ancing is such a popular leisure activity that many persons tend to forget that they are actually exercising. Dancing is fun, energetic, creative and it allows you to be free-spirited and to express yourself through movement. It doesn’t matter what type of dance you practise, whether hip-hop, salsa, kuduro or dancehall, moving your body to a steady rhythm is one small step to working up a sweat.

Dancing is a great activity to engage in and there are many benefits to it, both physically and mentally.

Dancing...

Increases aerobic fitness Increases the heart rate thereby improving your heart health and lungs one step at a time Burns calories Increases muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness not to mention improving one’s muscle tone Helps in building stronger bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis Promotes better hand-eye coordination, agility and flexibility Improves balance and spatial awareness.

Increases physical confidence.

Promotes greater self-confidence and self esteem.

Encourages social interaction and improves social skills Source: Better Health Channel

Looking for an intense workout?

Move your body to the rhythms of salsa or kuduro.

Salsa in its entirety involves fast-paced music which is then followed by similar paced movements. Though there are a few salsa music that can be on the ‘slow’ side, most of salsa’s accompanying music are at a more brisk and steady tempo, making it more enjoyable for those seeking to practise the dance and exercise.

Kuduro on the other hand, may not have the same instrumental beats as salsa, but its high energy tempo is what makes it another great choice for an intense workout. Kuduro is a more of a group dance however it can be done individually. Its movements often involve a mixture of dance techniques originating from salsa, hip hop and to an extent dancehall. Kuduro is easy to learn and is definitely a workout routine to explore.

Intense workout?

When last have you gone dancing? Dancing is so much fun that its even better in a group.

Exercising through dance will be even more successful when there are others around you working towards the same goal.

Remember, exercise is not just meant for overweight persons, it is for all to practise. Dance is universal and as such anyone can get involved, no matter the age, shape or size.

Keeping active is very important in staying fit and healthy so grab a partner or a group of friends and dance your way to fitness.

Persons exercising through dance.

Photo: Samantha Thompson Previous photo: Noche Latina at OMG ABSolute Fitness Club Photo: Samantha Thompson

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Popularity of Latin Dancing in Jamaica Over the years, latin dancing has become mainstream especially within the nation’s capital of Kingston. It has captured the attention of various individuals in society who now share it as a common interest.

7 Rules of Dance Etiquette

By Clinton Collier

However, though dancing in general may be very intriguing to some persons, when it comes down to latin dancing in Jamaica, not many may share the same sentiment towards these sensual dance genres. As Jamaica is popularly known for its hard-core dancehall rhythms and movements, not to mention the vibrating impulses from reggae, many persons may oppose to the view of learning something outside of their ‘comfort zone’ like salsa or merengue.

In speaking with a few persons who aren’t very familiar with latin dancing on the topic. They shared their opinion in regards to how they believe Jamaicans may react to it.

Many persons may be of the view that learning to dance is a difficult task. It requires time and discipline and some Jamaicans may not necessarily be up for that, especially with the intricate steps involved. It requires concentration and for some persons, having to concentrate a lot takes away from the dance. On the other hand, though it is of the belief that it requires steady discipline, dancing is still a fun and interactive activity.

In Jamaica many persons enjoy ‘standing out’ and being in the spotlight.

It’s a part of what makes us a vibrant people. Persons will gravitate towards salsa dancing for instance because of its sensuality and pulsating rhythm.

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RULE NO.1 – NEVER TURN DOWN A DANCE It’s just a couple of minutes out of your life and an opportunity to make someone’s night, encourage a beginner or make a new friend.

That being said, it’s also good etiquette to ask someone near your own level. Slightly better is fine, we all want to learn: but if you’re a beginner, probably not a good idea to ask the best dancers yet.

Hone your skills and work your way through the levels: beginner, intermediate, advanced.

Stay within your level.

Responders; it’s courteous and magnanimous to say yes to a person once. Feel free to say no if they ask again the same night.

NO JEWELRY Sharp rings and bracelets can cut and scar. Latin dances are often fast with quick arm movements.

You can tell advanced dancers because they’re the ones with no jewelry (they’re rigged to fly LOL!).

NO HANDBAGS Beginners: don’t try to dance with something in your hands. Focus, grasshopper! If you’re worried about people stealing stuff, don’t bring anything with you that you can’t afford to lose. If you have a bag, put it down and try to keep an eye on it or have your friends do the same.

NO FOOD OR DRINKS ON THE DANCE FLOOR We offer the best dancefloor in the city, that being said, for a dancer, any dance floor deserves respect.

There’s nothing worse than someone spilling their beer on the floor and you wiping it off with your new dance shoes. Respect the floor and keep it safe for other dancers please.

KEEP IT SAFE Advanced dancers respect their partner and other dancers and keep them safe from getting hurt.

You need to learn how to dance without putting your partner or other dancers at risk. This means

Popularity of Latin Dancing in Jamaica Cont’d With that said, Jamaica is a very diverse country with a unique culture that expands across borders. Though latin dancing may not be what the average Jamaican is use to, it is a refreshing difference that can be experienced by all who are willing to learn and embrace it.

Contributors Sasha-gaye Robinson Joniel Alcock Jestina Williams Alison Henderson Shauna McDonald Rose McDonald

keeping it small if the floor is crowded.

It means not taking big back steps or swinging your partner out into the path of other dancers. If you or your partner do step on someone, show some courtesy and take a moment to acknowledge it and apologize; usually eye contact, a nod and a rueful smile will show you’re sorry.

DIPPING & TRICKS Ladies, if you are dipped, know that you’re not supposed to drop your body weight on your partner – you’re supposed to support your full body weight so you keep yourself safe at all times. Gents: don’t dip or do a trick with someone you don’t know without asking them first. Some of us have neck or back or shoulder problems and don’t want to get hurt.

DON’T BE RUDE! If you just turned someone down, it’s rude to get up and dance immediately with someone else.

Don’t keep stepping on someone. If you do, it’s your fault. Go find somewhere with more space or take smaller steps.

One good rule of thumb is: the faster the dance, the smaller the steps!

A WORD TO BEGINNERS AND IMPROVERS When I started, 5 years ago, I got turned down to dance a lot. I wasn’t a good dancer, so people were leery. Now I’m a bit more experienced as a social dancer (and a dance champion), based on my experience, here is my advice to you.

It’s going to take you a couple of hundred hours of practice and dancing to become a competent dancer. Let me suggest to you that in a thousand or so dances you will have a much better idea what you’re doing. So relax into the process.

It’s going to be frustrating as heck at first. You’ll be awkward and people won’t want to dance with you because you lack skill and competence. But we all start here…don’t worry about it. It’s a part of the process.

The trick is to dance every opportunity you get. You have one thousand dances to get through in order to be competent, so get to it.

You can do it in three months or 5 years…your choice. Dance every opportunity you make and before you know it you’ll be through the learning curve and finding dancing more enjoyable.

If you want to get better, it’s no secret how to do it: spend time and money. Money for lessons and time for practice. Find a dance partner to practice with and you’ll cut down your expenses and reduce your learning curve. Learn 4 or 5 basic moves and practice the heck out of them until you can do them seamlessly and effortlessly. Then add a few more. And a few more.

One mistake beginners make is trying to learn lots of move quickly, so I’ll give you freely one of the most important lessons I’ve ever learned:

champion.

Learn to do the basics well and everything you do later is going to look better. One of the things I appreciate about latin dancers who have never had lessons, the cumbia crew and others who grew up dancing as part of their culture, is that they don’t do a lots of fancy stuff, but what they do they can do beautifully.

FINAL PIECE OF ADVICE Another important lesson I’ve learned. At the end of the day, dancing is about a connection between two people. It’s about giving a little of yourself and ensuring your partner is having fun. Advanced dancers, don’t do advanced steps with a beginner, make a connection and try to dance at that person’s level. Make it fun for them.

Ladies, don’t be too hard on the guys. If the guy is simply doing steps, then he’s still learning and trying to figure out what’s coming next. He’s not ignoring you, he just hasn’t reached that level of competency where he can reach out and connect with you yet.

Make eye contact, smile and realize that at the end of the day, the best dancers on the floor are those having the most fun. So have some fun!

View this and other great articles on latin dancing @ LatinDanceCommunity.com

You can dance championship steps like a beginner, or you can dance beginner steps like a

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The 3 Most Important Factors of Great Social Dancing D

By Chilly Alisar

o you want to be a Great Social Dancer? Well this post is dedicated to helping people (irrespective of level) identify what it takes for them to become the best social dancer that they can possibly be.

Now – if you don’t have time to read this article – In a nut-shell, it all boils down to Connection: Connecting with the Music, Connecting with your partner, Connecting with the move… etc.

It’s all about connection.

However, how can you improve on this connection? Well that is what I am going to share with you in this article, So let’s get to it….

1- It’s all about the MUSIC: You do not dance to 123, 567! Those are counts, you dance to the Music!

Don’t forget about the Music when you dance because you are too busy counting. Dance to the Music!

Counting was introduced to make teaching easier and to help people keep the rhythm. It was never meant to replace the music all together. So, Dance to the Music!

Now, just in-case you missed it, DANCE WITH THE MUSIC!!!!

There is a combination of 3 things that encompasses dancing to the Music. I recommend you start with A and work your way down to C. A. Dance on the Song = To the right beat (45%). You can’t just dance to some imaginary beat in your head.

Salsa dance is based on moving to the rhythm. Anything else isn’t really Salsa. So find the rhythm and stick with it.

B. Dance to the song = Style of music (35%). Is it a romantica (dance soft) or a dura (dance hard) or a classica (dance smooth)? Don’t just execute endless turn patterns irrespective of the style of music. Make sure your dance style fits the music. Music like all good stories has an intro, a build up, a main section and an outro. Make sure you move accordingly and understand the idea of flow – using both exertion and calmness to create varying effects when you dance.

C. Dance with the Music = Interpret the music and play with it (20%). Feel the music with your body and hit those musical accents and feel the changes in the song and use these changes in your movement to express it. Hitting a break in the song with a perfectly timed dip or move is magic and will do wonders for you and your dance partner.

2- TECHNIQUE, Technique, Technique: Perfect Practice makes perfect. Dancing is an art-form and just like any art-form, you need not just practice, but practice perfectly. So Learn to Lead or Learn to Follow. However, what does it mean to Lead or follow?

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I) Learn to Follow Women should feel and not think; following in this sense refers to feeling the lead and the rhythm, not thinking what does the man want me to do now? This kind of following requires a lady to be totally receptive. Imagine the Leader is like a radio station sending out signals or sound waves, and you the Follower are like a radio with it’s antenna totally receptive. The whole dance is the interplay of opposites but these opposites need to blend together to work in harmony and become one, just like the yin-yang symbol. (analogy courtesy of Marchant Birch) II)Learn to Lead Think of this as learning to drive a car. Nothing beats experience and you have got to pay your dues and learn (Sorry guys, no short-cuts). The more your drive the better you get, same on the dance floor.

Now driving just like leading follows the same principles. You do not drive every-car exactly the same even though the principles of driving are set. So a Ferrari is very different experience from a Volkswagen beetle in almost every way. The point?

Even though technique remains the same, every woman is different and thus requires a different lead.

Therefore, continuously learn how different women move and adjust your lead accordingly.

P.S. Accept the fact that not everyone can be the Lewis Hamilton on the dance floor. Get over it and just be the best damn driver you can be! This boils down to Quality over quantity.Rather do the 6 moves you know really well than the 26 you just learned yesterday and haven’t perfected yet.

3 – Have Fun!: Having Fun is probably the most important thing on the dance floor. Here are 5 key points that will help you communicate to your dance partner that you are having a good time: 1. Smile- This is the easiest way to communicate you are having a good time and put the person you are dancing with at ease.

2. Dance together- Dance is a language of communication. So for the few minutes you dance together, make the person you are dancing with feel like the centre of the universe. Forget about how many people are watching you, it has nothing to do with them. This dance is between you and your partner. 2 people sharing a beautiful moment and creating a wonderful experience together.

3. Eye contact- Maintain some form of eye contact, however don’t gaze into each others eyes too deeply.

Note: Staring the entire time without blinking comes across as serial killerish. Too little eye contact however comes across as disinterested. So you need to find the balance.

4. Hygiene– It’s kind of hard to have fun when you are pressed up against someone dripping with sweat and smells like they have not had a shower in days and also has bad Breath! Enough Said.

5. Don’t be a creep– Learn to respect personal space. While dancing is in essence a sensual activity, everyone has their limits, and crossing them is the opposite of fun.

Till next time, Live, Laugh, Love & Salsa!

View this and other great articles on latin dancing @ LatinDanceCommunity.com

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