The Basics of Rumba Dancing

Series Summary

The rumba is said to be an African dance, coming to us by way of Cuba and the slave trade. Yet rumba is often thought of as a Latin dance because of its rich polyrhythms and passionately evocative steps. Whatever the mixture of cultures and influences, rumba is a dance that involves sultry performances of moves that put desire on display and showcase emotion through physical expression. No, it’s not the forbidden dance, but it has been shunned in certain areas of the world at certain times because of its suggestive nature.

In this free dancing video series, learn how to dance the rumba passionately. U.S. Latin Champions Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin will show you many of the basic steps, moves and techniques you’ll need to get started… as well as make sure you don’t look ridiculous when it’s time to dance with a partner. Dance lessons include the basic rumba posture, the Cuban motion, the box step and variations on the rock step. Learn the rumba and have some new moves to show off with or impress a special someone.

Video Transcript

"Hi! On behalf of Expert Village, I'm Melanie LaPatin and I'm Tony Meredith and we are co-owners of Dance Time Square Studios in New York City. We are here to show you how to Rumba. Hello we are here to show you how to do the Rumba. One of the most romantic and sensual dances that you will ever do. This is a very social dance. You would be surprised that you could find yourself dancing the great Rumba to music you never thought possible. "