How to Do Mambo Open Breaks

An open break in dancing is one in which the dance partners release one another's shoulders so they can dance farther apart. It's done by itself or before another move, such as a turn by the woman, a back pass or a chase.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Man's Part

1. Start with the basic mambo step pattern and begin a cross body lead.

2. Release the woman's shoulder to indicate that you want to do an open break. She will release your shoulder.

3. Step back on your right foot instead of stepping forward on your left foot on count 6 of the cross body lead. Continue to hold the woman's right hand in your left, but extend your arm as the distance between you increases.

4. Keep to the step pattern of the dance as you set up the next figure. Because you were "on the wrong foot" during the open break, you will need to dance in place for a few counts and return to the basic pattern on the correct foot.

Woman's Part

5. Start with the basic mambo step pattern and begin a cross body lead.

6. The man will release your shoulder to indicate that he wants to do an open break. You will release his shoulder.

7. Continue as in the cross body lead, stepping back on your right foot as the man also steps back on the right foot.

8. Maintain the pattern of the dance, stepping forward with the left foot while the man stays in one place. This will allow you to close the distance to return to the basic step pattern, unless the man indicates that he wants to begin another figure such as a turn.

Tips & Warnings

• Instead of stepping back on the right foot, the man can dance in place or take a small step forward with the left foot to keep "on the correct foot" on count 6.