Caribbean dances: a bit of history

Caribbean dances are extremely popular in dance schools over the world thanks to their catchy rhythm. Often confused with the latin american dances, are, effectively, very different styles. First of all, caribbean dances are three:

• Salsa
• Merengue
• Bachata 

All caribbean dances are born thanks to a mix of different cultures and they all have a very long story behind their back, made by exotic music and sensual movements. The origins came from the discovery of America, with Cristoforo Colombo first and the Spanish invasion after. 

Obviously, the different cultures mixed up, but the African one won over the Spanish, causing, during the time, the birth of the caribbean dances, exported then all over the world and adapted to every need.

Salsa

Salsa is a dance born in Cuba and the beginning of 1900 and its origin comes from the “son”, a music genre very famous on the island. The steps we know are the results of a re-working that happened following the spread in America and in the rest of the world. The sound is 4/4 and is characterized by very soft movements, especially at a legs and hips level. 

Merengue

Native of Dominican Republic, was born at the beginning of 1900 too, from African slaves forced to work in the fields. Despite its origin, Merengue’s rhythm is cheerful and catchy. Steps are easy and characterized by a constant shift of the body weight from one foot to another. 

Bachata

One of the most loved dances, Bachata was born in Santo Domingo around 1920. As much loved by the poorest classes as it was repudiated by the upper middle class, this dance has always been characterized by its sensual nature. Because of its movements, based on the dancer’s body always in touch, the richer classes saw this dance as gross and inappropriate.

Despite the negative feeling, Bachata got to escape from Santo Domingo and spread all over the world, becoming one of the most appreciated dances.

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Caribbean dance clothing

Caribbean dance clothing is usually made up of lightweight fabrics, that allows dancers to move without impediments. The main thing is to use comfortable clothes.

The talk changed when speaking about competitions. FIDS (Federazione Italiana Danza Sportiva) has a very strict rulebook regarding professional clothing. The man can wear only long pants and a shirt, the woman can choose between pants, skirt or dress, as long as the intime parts are covered. 

Also regarding footwear, dancers can use dance shoes only. With Romy Dance you can choose your ideal shoes in our caribbean dance collection and dance with safety. The quality of Made in Italy will guarantee you the comfort you need to compete.

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