Latin Dance - Rumba

History

• The Rumba, originating in Cuba, is one of the five Latin dances and is danced in 4/4 time at a tempo of 25-27 bars (tournament tempo 27 bars).

• The precursor to the Rumba is the Habanera.

• Rumba arrived in New York and Europe in 1930.

• From 1956 to 1958 and again from 1961 to 1963, so-called "Rumba Wars" took place between England and France regarding the standardization of the rumba. The international committee ultimately approved both variations.

• In 1964, Cuban Rumba was included in the competitive ballroom dance program, and Square Rumba in the World Dance Program.

• Characteristic of the dance is the interplay and passion between man and woman in their nonverbal communication.

• The toes are slightly turned out, and the step is initiated with the edge of the foot.

• Note: When assuming your closed dance hold, turn your toes slightly outward; this will facilitate the movements.