HISTORY OF MERENGUE DANCING

Controversy surrounds how this dance began captivation the world. One claims it started as a peasant dance in the Dominican Republic by African Slaves. The alternate says that a returning war hero, a General merengue, danced dragging an injured leg. Whatever it’s origin, today’s exiting rhythm of the meringue has people moving all over the world to its simple rhythm.

MERENGUE DANCE STEPS

Merengue is known for simple rhythms and crazy arms. Loops, wraps, slides and turns, if you can tie your partner in a knot its in meringue. Slow and fast turns and an easy rhythm make this the dance of choice for those duty dances and is perfect for creative personalities.

WHAT WILL LEARNING MERENGUE DO FOR MY DANCING?

Merengue will work on hip movement and leg action as well as teaching how different arms combinations work better then any other dance. Other then samba it is the best dance at making stiff dancers more comfortable.

MERENGUE MUSIC

Merengue can be done to any fast music. Traditionally it is done to Latin and Caribbean style music with a 1 2 beat. In meringue you step on every beat so it makes a great dance for beginners.

EXAMPLES OF MERENGUE MUSIC

Hot, hot, hot- Buster Poindexter
Jump in The line- Harry Belafonte
Cuban Pete- Jim Carey
Suavemente- Elvis Crespo

WHERE WOULD I USE IT?

Merengue is one of the most commonly danced dances in Latin clubs. It also is used on cruises and at social functions, as the perfect get you partner on the floor dance. It makes sense for every one to learn it because it’s the best dance to do with non dancers and can be used as a substitute for any other fast dance.