Take Quick Steps to Dance Floor Fitness

THE return of Strictly Come Dancing has transformed Saturday night viewing but if you take a lead from the stars of the show you can transform your fitness too. Dance is the ultimate workout.

It burns around 320 calories an hour or 100 calories more than a brisk walk, and exercises all the major muscle groups. Unlike many other forms of exercise it’s also fun.

That’s why Zumba exercise classes have become so popular says Alberto “Beto” Perez, the choreographer from Colombia who devised the fitness programme based on salsa moves.

Beto has worked with pop singer Shakira and other stars and says: “People hate exercise but they love to party.

“The fitness industry creates programmes for people who like the gym but that’s only five per cent of the population. With Zumba you see three generations in one class.”

Healthcare giant Bupa has also recognised the benefits of ballroom and launched Shall We Dance.

The campaign, spearheaded by Daily Express columnist Ann Widdecombe and Strictly partner Anton du Beke, encourages care home residents to be more active.

Dr Clive Bowman, medical director of Bupa Care Services, says: “Dancing is beneficial for maintaining good health and wellbeing.

“It can be helpful in conditions as diverse as dementia, arthritis and Parkinson’s disease. It can also help to reduce falls by improving co-ordination, while the social element can improve confidence and reduce isolation.”

Dr Robert Bonow, former president of the American Heart Association, says: “Dancing is effective because it’s fun.”

Here are just some of the ways you can foxtrot towards fitness.

CARDIO QUICK-STEP

Patients with heart trouble can waltz themselves well say Italian researchers who compared the benefits of dance to a gym workout.

A study of 110 people diagnosed with serious cardiac problems found those who waltzed at least three times a week showed slightly more improvement in heart health and breathing. Oxygen levels in the dancers improved by 18 per cent compared to 16 per cent in the other exercise group.

Three sessions a week of dance aerobics is also enough to produce significant reductions in cholesterol levels, a study at the Baskent University in Turkey has shown.

REEL WAY TO KEEP FIT

Traditional Scottish dances are a better workout than swimming or exercises classes according to a study at Strathclyde University.

Researchers tested 35 women aged 65 to 85 who had been dancing for at least five years and compared their results to 35 non-dancers of similar ages who enjoyed other exercise. All were fitter than average but the dancers showed better strength, stamina, flexibility and balance.

Exercise physiologist Dr Susan Dewhurst helped with the research.

She says: “Not only is country dancing enjoyable and sociable but there appears to be clear evidence it’s an effective exercise for particular types of fitness later in life.”

When University of Hertfordshire researchers compared the fitness levels of dancers from The Royal Ballet and members of the British swimming squad the dancers came out on top in seven out of 10 tests.


BRAIN-BOOSTING BALLROOM

If you’ve got rhythm you’ve probably also got a higher than average IQ say researchers at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden.

They found volunteers who were good at keeping time to music also performed best at problem-solving.

Dance is the only physical activity which reduces the risk of dementia and provides even more protection than brain-training puzzles such as crosswords, said a study in the New England Journal of Medicine.

The Albert Einstein College Of Medicine tracked the mental health of 469 elderly New Yorkers and found regular ballroom dancing lowered their risk by 76 per cent.

Study head Professor Joe Verghese believes dance is beneficial because it makes a variety of demands on the mind and body.

“Dancing involves precise physical activity, listening to the music, remembering dance steps and taking your partner into account which is very mentally testing,” he says.

Dance is also used in physical therapy for dementia patients and studies have shown listening to favourite tunes helps recover forgotten memories.

BOOGIE AWAY THE BLUES

Exercise in any form helps combat depression but dance is particularly good because it involves getting out and meeting people.

Korean researchers found just 12 weeks of regular dance improved the symptoms of patients with mild depression and before-and-after psychological tests showed significantly lower stress scores.

Blood tests revealed dance produced positive changes in the volunteers’ levels of dopamine and serotonin, which play a key role in mental function.

A University of New England study dubbed the “Tango Trial” found the dance helps switch off the negative thought patterns associated with stress and depression.

TAKE TWO AND TANGO

The steamy South American dance reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol say German researchers.

Cortisol is part of our fight or flight response and helps regulate blood pressure, immune response and other key body functions.

If we are under too much stress and levels remain high for long periods cortisol can trigger a host of health problems from cardiac disease to brittle bones.

Scientists at Goethe Universität in Frankfurt, Germany, recruited 22 tango fans for a study.

The team measured cortisol levels in their saliva before and after they took to the dancefloor.

They found that the tango triggered a significant reduction.

Study leader psychologist Cynthia Murcia says: “The intimate, close embrace in tango is instrumental in stimulating positive feelings.”

BALLET FOR BONES

Any weight-bearing exercise helps strengthen bones particularly up to the age of 18 to 20 when we reach peak bone density.

Researchers at Melbourne University in Australia discovered ballet is one of the best ways to boost bones. Scans of 143 girls aged eight to 11 showed those who took regular lessons had “significantly” greater bone density which reduces the risk of osteoporosis in later life.

A Leeds University study found children who danced regularly had five per cent more bone than couch potatoes. And researchers at Griffith University, Missouri, are testing their theory that line dancing can help bone problems in older women.


Source: Jane Symons
Image Credit  Sfe SalsaPinoy

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Posted in dance salsa , health care fitness , parkinsons disease , salsa circuit , salsa dance , salsa dance fitness , salsa dancing , Tango Trial

Colombian salsa is love and passion: country's best dancer

Colombian salsa is love, and a lot of passion, said Thursday Milady Teran, the recent winner of the annual World Salsa Championship in "salsa capital" Cali.

Cali-native Teran, and her partner Jhon Andres Lucumi, took home the gold for their cabaret couples performance in the 2011 Cali World Salsa Championship, that lasted from October 8-15.

Of her win Milady told Colombia Reports, "it feels very rewarding to be one of the best dancers, and very exciting because there are many many dancers; to be one of the youngest and to have the title of champion makes me very proud and very thrilled."

She believes that "Colombian salsa is love, and a lot of passion. When you see a Colombian dance you say that it transmits a lot of emotion and love, and this is what we are."

Under the direction of salsa dance school Swing Latino, founded by legendary salsa dancer and choreographer Luis Eduardo Hernandez "El Mulato," Miss Teran has quickly blossomed into the school's youngest dancer to reach the highest ranks of salsa competition.

Starting with Swing Latino in December 2010, Teran has rapidly taken the salsa spotlight, although she "never imagined (she) would reach Swing Latino and become one of the best in the world."

Teran began dancing at the young age of nine with the Cali dance school "Nueva Juventud," and feels she owes a lot to her mentor, El Mulato, and partner Lucumi for taking her with them to the top.

Her plans for the future include a trip to London, England to dance and continue her quest as the best, and the salsa-star dreams of one day being able to visit China, Egypt, and Puerto Rico to learn from their dance styles, and make herself internationally known.

Ternan's Cali win with Lucumi comes just month after taking second place in the cabaret portion of the 2011 Chile Salsa Congress. In both competitions, the pair performed to the song "El Rey del Timbal," interpreted by Oscar de Leon.

"My aspirations are to be a great dancer and be able to be on stages all over the world, so that people know me as the best, but first before being the best dancer, I want to be a good person," the Cali-native humbly confided.



Source: Natalie Dalton

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Posted in 2011 Cali World Salsa Championship , 2011 salsa circuit weekly music charts , Colombian salsa , dance salsa , El Mulato , Nueva Juventud , salsa dancing , salsacircuit , Swing Latino

Free salsa & Latin dance social & free dance show by international star

STUART — After drawing more than 300 people to a free salsa and Latin dance social in Palm City last year, Jack Valerio and Thany Lim will once again offer this great event for FREE from

6 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8 .

This event will be held at Pauly's Niteclub, located at 1630 NW Federal Highway in Stuart, and will include free dancing, free food, a free dance lesson, and a free show by the internationally famous dancer Al "Liquid Silver" Espinoza.

This Grand Opening special kicks off regular dance socials that will be offered again on Oct. 22 and on the first and third Saturday of every month therefter.

Jack and Thany have been teaching salsa & Latin dance for more than 7 years and have taught in excess of 1000 people in our community. They are dedicated to teaching and to providing the community with an elegant and convenient place to dance and to learn to dance. Pauly's Niteclub, where they teach and host their social dances, is conveniently located on the west side of US 1 in Staurt, just about a mile north of the Roosevelt Bridge. Jack & Thany operate under the name Salsa Lessons For Everyone and may be contacted by phone at 772-486-9198 or through their website at http://SalsaLessonsForEveryone.

This story is contributed by a member of the Treasure Coast community and is neither endorsed nor affiliated with TCPalm.com

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Posted in 2011 salsacircuit , AlLiquid Silver Espinoza , dance salsa , free salsa dance , latin dance , salsa dance steps , salsa dancing , Treasure Coast community

Dance like no one is watching

 
“There are shortcuts to happiness and dancing is one of them,” said late Austrian writer Vicki Baum. She could have added, “Plus, it’s a great way to get in shape.”

Children learn how to dance long before they know there is such a thing as music. Unfortunately, for most adults, we tend to forget how good dancing feels.

If you secretly sashay across your living room when you’re home alone or find yourself doing the cha-cha to the radio, you’ll be pleased to know that not only is dancing an exceptional way to let-loose and have fun but it also provides some terrific benefits for your health.

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic report that social dancing helps reduce stress, increase energy, improve strength and develop muscle tone, coordination and balance. And whether you kick up your heels to hip-hop, ballroom dancing, bluegrass  or country, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute says dancing can lower your risk of coronary heart disease, decrease blood pressure, help you manage your weight and strengthen the bones of your hips and legs.

Dancing is a unique form of exercise because it provides the benefits of an aerobic exercise, while allowing you to engage in a social activity. A 21-year study recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that dancing can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other form of dementia in the elderly.

Just how good of a workout is dancing? The health benefits you get from dancing are directly linked to the type of dancing you’re doing, how strenuous it is, the duration and your skill level. It is estimated that dance burns anywhere from 5 to 10 calories per minute depending on speed and intensity.

Some dance routines are absolute calorie blasters. For a 150-pound person, disco, ballroom, square, Latin, Mambo and Salsa burn an average of 396 calories per hour. Jitterbugging, ballet and the twist torch 432 calories in the same time frame.

If you’re looking for specific health results, Belly Dancing improves your posture and muscle tone, maintains flexibility and helps with weight loss and stress reduction. Ballroom Dance builds and increases stamina, strengthens and tones your legs and overall body, helps with weight loss and increases flexibility and balance.

If your preference is Salsa, regular sessions will build your endurance, help you lose weight, relieve stress and may help lower your blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels. And finally, square dancing provides cardiovascular conditioning, strengthens bones, tones muscles and helps develop strong social ties.

The most important thing to remember is that any type of dancing is better than no dancing at all.

Ready to kick up your heels? There are plenty of opportunities to dance in Teller County.

Starting in October, the Woodland Park Parks and Recreation Department is offering classes in American Rhythm Cha Cha/Freestyle Cha Cha, Country Two Step and West Coast Swing. For more information, call 719-687-5225. Or if you want to Zumba at Woodland Fitness call 719-686-8800.

CornerStreet Dance in Woodland Park offers ballet, ballroom, tap, jazz and hip-hop at 719-686-8610 and information about the internationally acclaimed Jazzercise can be gotten at 719-687-3467. To dance up on Cripple Creek, call Cresson Dance Company at 719-689-5745.

And, when you get there, remember to dance like no one is watching.

Source Cord Prettyman

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Posted in ballet , ballroom , Cresson Dance Company , dance salsa , jazz and hip-hop , salsa circuit , salsa dance , salsa dance steps , tap

Five tricks sure to learn to dance salsa

Have you ever felt the adrenaline rush you, if you happen to be some sweeping application salsa dancing on stage? You have definitely fallen in love with this genre of dance the passion and beauty of dance salsa must have left their indelible imprints in which you learn how to steal the thunder of fire must now draw your ideas. To get a sensational salsa dancer, desire to excel enough just to create a new beginning. Enter your talents sparrow, the dance would be an expert salsa dancer way. But if you’re interested in learning salsa dancing mustard, help tips sure that you can learn how to dance salsa to help you become a magnet, if you fill the dance floor.

Tip # 1? Learn Salsa compositions

Dance has hit par on the mechanics related to salsa dance salsa music to understand. If you salsa dance works, know how to salsa song structure, how the tools work in parallel and each other, and the confrontation with the entire vehicle to your salsa dance techniques, we plan to reach greater heights. You? Will have to learn can be found hidden in the compositions of sessions Life Salsa Salsa and your dancing. By controlling this, or? Become an expert in dealing with the right salsa dance style for a particular type of music.

Tip turned 2? Dance of the Clave Rhythm

salsa rhythm is important, which is done through constant practice, to understand the nature of the Clave rhythm, Amen. Most works salsa clave rhythm is the basis, which is percussion, which sets the groove for the core fans to follow. Clave rhythm is the basic rhythm of salsa music about, for he has two versions. Can? 3-2 clave? And this? 2-3 clave?, Two bars, which are revealed in reverse order. Choice in terms of a variation to the composition of salsa. It is very important to learn to dance at a clave, everyone.

3 Tips to impress? Master of Step B

Salsa interval learning to perform an important step, and it is important to note that the salsa to take written before 4 / 4, but due to a faster pace. It’s going to be with? Quick Quick Slow? Rate, or even pay attention to how? To keep one step? Rate, which hold this process is called pause. Breaking step usually count four, there is a break move by rolling the weight of the dancers from the ball relative to the foot of the dancer performed on the heel is done. Mastering step to break another important aspect, which takes into account, while you learn to salsa.

Tip has 4 dance? Learn the basic cycle salsa step

While you’re curious about the tricks to learn to dance salsa, it is also important to know the basic salsa step cycle. It includes 6 steps that can be experienced Break out of 8 strokes, as he begins a new cycle again. Beat 4 / 4 of the salsa dancing is usually one cycle every two steps dance beats, dance two step-action cycles. It is very important to learn basic salsa step cycle, learn advanced techniques, which then paves the way to change the step cycle.

Tip # 5? Learn techniques for styling

If the rhythm of salsa, dance is a summary of the situation, a good father, you can bring your design techniques, salsa dancing. Styling Salsa is the best way to express your joy on the dance floor. Styling techniques salsa dance steps and take additional or supplementary techniques involve the provision of a solo dance performance or a dance performance will be placed on the dance floor scene with a partner.
If you think about ways and means to dance salsa learn how these activities help you master vital secret, as you’re willing to give impressions of the stars, dancing salsa on the dance floor.

Source Vasanth

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Posted in 2011 salsa circuit weekly music charts , basic salsa dance , dance salsa , dancing salsa , rhythm of salsa , salsa dance steps , salsa dance tricks , salsacircuit

How to avoid injury while dancing

Easy to hit, if you are professional dancers to get. They dance and dance all day, you too. If you are working on the set of the movie, you’ll be dancing every day for many hours and you strain your organs, if you do not know a lot of precautions. I saw professional dancers get injuries all the time. One of the dancers raise her leg to repair in the operating room after an injury.

Very easy to cause damage if you work hard, not on the set in a movie or just a show. You do not want to let your manager, then end up with serious injuries, which can cost you your career. You can not dance again, if you break your leg or have other serious injuries. You want to be able to continue with your career. If you do not feel like trains, you will be safe, you must be more to talk with your people on the set they have to deal with it. Better not do that then do it and get serious injuries. If you are a manager or director on set, you must look for these things, and suggest ways to reduce injuries. It is your responsibility if the worker injured on the set at all, then you handle these things should be. It is not uncommon for an athlete does not perform on the injuries. You get hurt all the time, but injuries are preventable.


The first thing you can do is examine your moves. If they did not look safe, you should talk to your coordinator. Better not do it, just to hurt themselves. You can not make a career than if you get hurt. It’s something you should remember. If you can not do, a few steps, then it is better to tell them that you do not want to try instead, and then hurt yourself on it. You should inform them. I know a few dancers, who broke her back and he ended his career. Yes, it could happen to you. You should know your limit, you know how you do every day. Your body can only so much pressure in one day anyway. The second thing that can help you is a stretch. Stretching will help you in many ways. This will help you from serious injury. It is crazy to believe that athletes will not stretch. You have to stretch to warm for an hour at least before you make major moves.

It is very important to stretch before dancing. If you do not stretch, you’ll end up with serious injuries. There is no doubt that at all. You have all the equipment you? You should carry all the right equipment so you do not have serious injuries then. Do you have the appropriate footwear? You either have flexible clothes. Hard to dance without clothes flexible. You can not wear jeans or trousers but Lycra or cotton trousers and shirts only.

Do you have to practice too much to dance too much on any given day? You need to reduce the amount of your work to prevent injuries. For example, if you have tons of cargo on the truck, it might not damaged, but it will not be able to function well, if you like ten tons of load on it. Same thing with your body. You can only handle so much at any point. You should remember that not too much.

Source dancestarzaacademy

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Posted in 2011 best dance prevent injuries , dance prevent injury , dance salsa , professional dancers , salsa dance steps , salsa dancing

Can dance treating the symptoms of depression?

You can dance you make your way out of depression? There is evidence that dance is effective in relieving symptoms of depression. Although formal studies have been limited to this, one study done last, that a small group of participants, salsa dance class lasted nine weeks showed significantly lower depression scores after completing their classes. If these results apply only to dance salsa or do all kinds of dancing has a positive benefit of treatment of depression?

In addition to depressed people to dance salsa in the study, was their self-esteem by learning new skills increased. This may have positive effects on symptoms of depression. In addition, a simple process of interaction with other participants on a social basis could be a little therapeutic. Depressed individuals often isolate themselves socially, and perhaps more, to treat the symptoms of depression. If you can contribute to a history of depression to look for alternative treatment, without medication, you should consider the course in dance in your area. Although salsa dancing in the dance was used in this study, there are other forms of dance at a rapid pace that can have positive effects on brain biochemistry. In addition, the dance is usually by music, upbeat optimist who could change slightly improved biochemistry of the brain in a positive way. Despite a dance class would be ideal for potential treatment of depression due to social interaction involved, you can help and video dance at home to relieve their discomfort. All you will pass on the couch and start positive effect on symptoms of depression. Select a video to dance to the music, live fast to help elevate your mood better. It is important you at least 30 minutes of dance, to raise, at most in the mood to get benefits. It is important that the medications prescribed for your depression can continue if you have been instructed to take these from your doctor, but dancing is another step, very natural to further improve the conventional treatment of your depression.

Source dancestarza academy

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Posted in 2011 top salsa weekly music charts , 2011 top ten salsa music charts , dance salsa , salsa dance beat depression , salsa dance class , salsa dance steps , salsa dancing

Forty Years Since the Birth of Salsa: Does Anyone Really Care?

For the majority of Latinos struggling to provide a better life for their families, Salsa music is of little concern and certainly not at the top of their list of priorities. So what’s so important and why should they care that August 26, 2011 marked the 40th anniversary of the event many consider to be the birth of Salsa?

Why? If for no other reason, it should provide us all with a sense of Pride. Why? Because Salsa is our greatest cultural art form being embraced today by people of all ages and nationalities around the world. I dare say that Salsa is perhaps our greatest contribution to world culture.

Salsa and the 1970s Latino

Cultural Renaissance in New York City

Starting in the late ’60s and into the ’70s, Latinos had a major cultural impact on New York City. It was a new generation of English speaking Puerto Rican baby boomers who created a Renaissance in all the arts and even had their own media voice (Latin NY magazine). They expressed their presence in poetry, their clothes, lifestyles and, of course, their most popular art form — their music!

The new Latino lifestyle started emerging in the 1960s with Latin Soul music (The Boogaloo) in places like the St. George Hotel in Brooklyn. In the 1970s, it was the world famous Cheetah Discotheque that became the showplace of these young Latinos, and they gathered by the tens of thousands every Sunday in Central Park. Their immense presence literally Latinized the park as well as the City itself with a new look and a new sound.

August 26 1971

The Fania All Stars perform at the Cheetah

This was no ordinary performance, it was an explosion of energy no one had ever felt or experienced before. This incredible event was captured on film and released the following year as Our Latin Thing. A few years later, it would have a greater impact than when originally released. Ironically, while many consider this night as the birth of Salsa, there is no mention of the word Salsa in the movie.

In 1973, Latin NY Magazine was launched from the Cheetah. The Fania All Stars’ concert at Yankee Stadium draws 44,000 screaming fans. Later that year, I hosted a TV Show called Salsa!

1975: The Spark that Ignited the Salsa Explosion!

Its fire fanned by the Newyorican fervor, the Salsa scene was bursting at the seams. Like dynamite waiting for a spark to ignite it, Salsa was ready to explode. The spark came in the form of Latin NY’s First Salsa Awards in May 1975.

This event received greater (pre and post) mass media coverage than was ever given to any Latin music event at that time and thus gave Salsa its biggest push and momentum. The coverage by mainstream media such as The New York. Times, created an incredible worldwide avalanche of interest in Salsa. What made the awards (by American media standards) a “newsworthy” event was that we publicized the event and our intense public criticism of NARAS for ignoring 17 years of repeated requests to give Latin music its own separate category in the Grammys.

Though ignored by local Spanish media, the rest of the world took notice. From Europe (Holland, Germany, France, Italy, England, etc.) and as far away as Japan, journalists and TV camera crews came to New York to comment on and document Salsa; what they perceived as a new phenomenon of high energy rhythmic Latino urban music, its dancing and its lifestyles.

Salsa dancing has created a world-wide industry that is booming. Salsa Clubs and dance studios continue to spring up to meet the demands of the 100s of thousands wanting to learn how to dance Salsa. This growing interest has also led to the growth of local Salsa bands throughout European, African and even Asian countries. They sound like and even dress-up to look like 1970s Latinos.

Source Izzy Sanabria

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Posted in dance salsa , Latino urban music , Latinos , salsa circuit , salsa clubs , salsa dance studios , salsa dancing , Salsa Explosion

Afraid To Dance?

With shows like So You Think You Can Dance? and Dancing With The Stars many people have thought that they would like to learn how to dance. Perhaps you are one of those but just the thought of getting out on the dance floor causes you to break out in a cold sweat because you have a fear of dancing. Maybe you believe you have two left feet, or perhaps you feel like you have no coordination. You may also be afraid that you will make a fool of yourself or that others will make fun of you.

Having these fears can cause a person to miss out on a chance to have lots of fun and make many new friends. Here are a few tips to help you get past your fears and get out on the dance floor.

Everyone Gets Nervous
The first thing you need to do is realize that just about everyone is nervous the first time they go dancing. You are not alone. You also need to know that no one is a good dancer when they first begin dancing. Everyone has to learn to dance well. Just do the best as you can and have fun. Don't worry about what other people think. Chances are that no one else is worried about how well you can dance.

Take Lessons
Take some beginner group lessons in whatever style of dance you would like to learn. There is no need to be nervous when everyone else is at the same skill level as you. Work at getting the basics down pat and build your confidence. Once you have a few lessons under your belt it won't seem like a big deal anymore. Private lessons are also a big plus. Nothing can speed up your learning curve like one on one instruction. Along with group or private lessons find a good instructional DVD so you can practice at home.

Dance, Dance, Dance
Get out and dance. Dance some more and then dance even more. The only thing that will make you a good dancer is spending time on the dance floor dancing . Not only will you get over your fear of dancing, you will also have a great time.

Change Partners
Changing partners isn't just for square dancing, it's for any kind of dancing. Dance with as many different partners as you can. This is a great way for both the leader, normally the man, and the follower to increase their skills. It can also reduce any nervousness you may still have as you become comfortable dancing with different people.


Dance With Better Dancers
Don't just dance with others at your own skill level. Dance with the good dancers too. This is a great way to learn new skills plus build up your confidence. See a good dancer, go ahead and ask them to dance with you. Most good dancers are more than happy to dance with beginners. They can remember being beginners themselves.

Have Fun
So once again, get out and dance. Don't worry about being nervous because it happens to everyone but it doesn't last. Have fun and keep at it, before you know it you will be ready to dance with the stars yourself.

Source Squidoo

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Posted in 2011 dance salsa , dance salsa , fear of dance , fear of dancing , salsa dance , top best dance steps

Extra Saucy Miami Salsa Congress Starts Tonight

Miami and salsa are almost interchangeable - there's hardly an ad or commentary about Miami that doesn't include a salsa soundtrack, with exclamations of "caliente!" It's a cliché, but also true: the heart of the salsa sound -- Cuban son and its Afro-Caribbean rhythmic roots -- makes Miami move to a beat unlike anywhere else in the USA.

It's no surprise then that the 10th edition of the Miami Salsa Congress is bigger than ever. This year it features over 400 national and international stars, 30 dance workshops, live concerts, and, of course, parties that last till 6 a.m., all centered at the newly gleaming Fontainebleau Resort on Miami Beach. We caught up with executive producer Rene Gueits to ask him about the 10th anniversary extravaganza.

New Times: After a decade, what differs most from the inaugural event?

Rene Gueits: The shear size of it. And more then ever locals from across Florida have taken an interest, giving the event more of an arts festival feel. This new wave of attendees adds to the international [feel] of the past decade.

Why the emphasis on the Fontainebleau?

It's the best South Beach has to offer -- and that's what we like to offer.

Have the audiences changed in 10 years?

Yes, the audience has become more diverse, with attendees traveling from as far as Japan, Australia, Europe, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States.

Have salsa styles changed over the period?

Yes, styles and preferences are constantly evolving. The shows have become much more elaborate and exciting.

Would someone who danced salsa in the beginning days of the 1970s recognize the salsa of today?

They would definitely recognize the dance, although they would most certainly notice an evolution.

Will anything surprise us this year?

"The extraordinary compilation of talent. Over 400 performers including three nights of dance showcases, five bands and world renowned DJs, including some of the biggest names in the industry."

The 10th edition of the Miami Salsa Congress starts Wednesday and runs through Sunday. The big weekend events begin at 8 p.m. with a two-hour performance from leading salsa companies. On Friday night alone, there will be groups from D.C. , New York, Japan, Caracas, and of course Miami -- 26 performance troupes in all that night. Then the 4,000-square dance floor is opened up to all. After that, DJs and live acts take over until 3:00 p.m. There's also a Beginner Salsa Boot Camp at noon on Saturday. A closing workshop on Sunday at 4 p.m. is simply called Ladies Styling. For details on times and events for the five-day affair at the Fontainebleau Resort on Miami Beach, check the Salsa Circuit Global Events for more Miami Salsa Congress updates.

Source By Anne Tschida

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Posted in dance salsa , latin dance , Miami Salsa Congress , Miami Salsa Congress 2011 , salsa dance , salseros

So You Think You Can Dance Canada: Hot in any language

Oh Canada! Is it just me or was that one of the best first SYTYCD performance shows ever, in Canada or the U.S.?

It started with a bang with Lindsay and Christian's steamy salsa (I couldn't help comparing it with what Ashley and Chris did on the U.S. show last week, kind of like putting a bottle of Ghost Pepper hot sauce next to a bottle of ketchup) and ended with a delightful Afro-jazz routine by Melissa and Shane. In between there was some great stuff and even the dancing that wasn't great (in my opinion, of course, which is all I can share here) was still pretty good.

But before I go on, it turns out the shocking revelation we were promised on Monday was indeed another injury. Moses Layco, who I found captivating in his audition and during Finals Week, hurt a shoulder ligament, meaning he couldn't do lifts and couldn't carry on in the competition. Moses, a 26-year-old contemporary dancer from Winnipeg, was the show's first ever contestant from Manitoba.

With any luck, though, he'll come back next year and he can be the first Manitoba contestant all over again. After all, there was Shelaina Anderson among the top 22 on Monday. Last year, she was the one crying in the audience with a fractured foot as the first performance show went on without her.

The difference for Moses is that he was eliminated from the competition right away instead of having to wait for results night and Adam Asselin-Rioux, 20, a contemporary dancer from Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que., was brought in to take his place.

I'm sad for Moses but glad for Adam, who was one of my favourite guys during auditions.

Tonight, I'm going to recap the performances in the order they occurred instead of picking favourites. Yes, I'm wussing out, but with 11 routines and so much quality to choose from, I could spend all night just trying to sort out rankings. So here goes:

Lindsay Leuschner and Christian Millette: Lindsay's a powerful contemporary dancer who really came into her own in Finals Week and, at just 19, there was also something very sweet about her. But that temptress who shook it all over the stage, who was that girl? And ballroom dancer Christian was right there with the Latin swagger turned up to 11, making the difficult lifts look easy in this Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin salsa. That ending, where he fell on Lindsay to kiss her neck and then she rolled over on top of him? Caliente indeed and continuing in the Canadian SYTYCD tradition of pushing the sexy envelope. The routine had the judges mock fanning each other. Guest judge Mary Murphy put the couple on the Hot Tamale Train and she and Jean-Marc Genereux stood and screamed together behind poor Blake McGrath, who had to cover his ears. Blake said the other girls should be very scared of Lindsay while Tre Armstrong praised Christian's "mad male swag." "You are the dream team to me of all dream teams," Mary told them.

Jordan Clark and Joey Arrigo: Speaking of dream teams, these two strong contemporary dancers got paired with choreographer Stacey Tookey for a contemporary routine. Jordan and Joey made the movements look effortless, plus it was a subtle piece with slower, softer parts, not all flying leaps and flinging oneself about, so it would be easy to overlook just how much the pair put into it. It was, however, very well danced. The judges all were won over. Mary even declared Joey the best male contemporary dancer on the show. "You two represent why dance is what it is today in Canada," said Blake. "We grow stronger and deeper and better year after year because you guys have been inspired and now you guys are the ones inspiring millions."

JP Dube and Denitsa Ikonomova: It's hard not to love hip-hop dancer JP, given how adorable he is. He and Denitsa, a ballroom dancer who's five years his senior, certainly seem to have chemistry, but turning JP into a "Justin Bieber vampire" in this hip-hop routine by Tucker Barkley emphasized the cute, sometimes at the expense of the swagger. Don't get me wrong, JP's a very good dancer and Denitsa did a really good job outside of her genre, but I agree with Luther Brown that they both needed to hit a little harder. Still, as Luther said, "You all look like the two cutest little situations that ever came out of that coffin" and, for that reason, I think they'll be getting plenty of votes.

Matt Marr and Shelaina Anderson: First off, I'm glad Shelaina finally got her chance to dance on that stage in front of the cheering crowd after the disappointment of last season. She and Matt are both deserving of their spots in the top 22. That being said, I didn't love this Sabrina Matthews contemporary routine about a man falling in love with a windup doll. It was the choreography rather than the dancing. Matt and Shelaina spent a lot of time apart, sometimes rolling and leaping, and the partner work included fairly aggressive lifts and spins, none of which said love to me. My opinion definitely differs from the judges', though, who all really enjoyed it. Jean-Marc said it was the perfect routine for Matt and Shelaina.

Yuliya Zavadska and Adam LoPapa: There was some impressive technique in this Melissa Williams theatre routine, including some lifts that Adam made look easy, but I didn't buy the connection between this jazz dancer and this ballroom dancer 100 per cent in this story about a girl who gets the cutest guy in school to fall for her with a magic coin. Maybe I'm being picky but at 29, Yuliya didn't look like a high school girl to me. I do concur with Blake, who told Adam, "You're strong and the girls think you're pretty sexy." 

Francois Pruneau and Cassandra Flammini: I'll admit that I found Cassandra's emphasis on being a "sexy" jazz dancer in her video package off-putting, what with all the blown kisses and come-hither looks at the camera. But then she backed up her brag about being dubbed "Cassexy" by the judges with an impressive rumba, choreographed by Eric Caty and Kelly Lannan. The technique from both Francois and Cassandra was excellent, including the "crazy" lifts. There was one anxious moment where Cassandra lifted one leg up and her heel got caught in her siren-red dress, but the heel dislodged as Francois spun her around so she didn't have to pull a Kirstie Alley. It's no surprise the judges were smitten. Luther called Francois "a swag master ballroom festival" and noted that Cassandra was talented as well as pretty.  Carlenaboneless

Carlena Britch and Dwayne "Boneless" Gulston: If I was ranking routines tonight, these two would be at or near the top. They brought the house down with this sexy Steve Bolton hip-hop routine about a girl trying to get a guy's attention. Carlena's presence in the top 22 was not a sure thing after she got called out for bitchy behaviour during Finals Week, but I'm glad she made the cut. Granted, she and Boneless were both dancing in their genre, but everything about them, their sharp moves, their swagger, the way they inhabited their characters, created a perfect little hip-hop storm onstage. Jean-Marc said Carlena and Boneless were showing a different flavour than everybody else "because you have a different background than everybody else; you have a story and you're not afraid to show it." (Carlena's story is physical and mental abuse and a childhood in foster homes; Boneless's is growing up without a father.) I just hope they can stay this good when they move into other genres.

Kevin Howe and Teya Wild: Props to hip-hop dancer Teya for not only tackling an unfamiliar style but for keeping up with one of the strongest contemporary males on the show. This Stacey Tookey contemporary routine was about a woman deciding whether to stay or go after she learns her partner has been cheating. Teya was emotionally invested from start to finish, even if the technique wasn't perfect. Kevin was as good as you'd expect him to be, even better when you figure he was dancing injured. "You can show your technique, but if you don't have a heart and a soul it means nothing, and that's what you have," Jean-Marc told Teya, giving her a standing ovation. As for Kevin, "I know you are deeply injured right now. It didn't show at all. The two of you are for me so far the biggest surprises for all for those reasons," Jean-Marc added.

Rodrigo Basurto and Lauren Lyn: In terms of raw sex appeal, you couldn't beat Rodrigo Basurto on Monday. I'm sure the technique wasn't flawless in this Gustavo Vargas cha cha but, as Mary said, who cares? Rodrigo was mesmerizing and not just because he was shirtless and in leather pants (although that certainly didn't hurt). There was an energy and a joyfulness to his performance that was really entertaining. And Lauren was pretty hot too. "Altogether, it's like a big jerk chicken (dinner) with everything," Luther told them. In other words: tasty.

Adam Asselin-Rioux and Geisha Chin: This Melissa Williams new disco routine was pretty darn good if you consider that Adam got parachuted in just a couple of days before the show and was dancing on a hip that he injured just a half-hour before the performance. The technique wasn't perfect: there were some gaps at the beginnings and ends of the lifts, but the energy was high and the chemistry was believable. The judges' verdict was that it was a fun routine. Blake complimented Geisha (who's a student of neuroscience when she's not dancing) on the commanding way she controls her body and told Adam he's "explosive and masculine."

Melissa Mitro and Shane Simpson: Last is definitely not least here. In fact, these two danced one of my favourite routines of the night, a Sean Cheesman Afro-jazz number about a couple "jumping the broom" in honour of his parents' 56th wedding anniversary. Melissa, a contemporary dancer, and Shane, a jazz contemporary dancer, both auditioned multiple times before making the show and the experience they gained while they waited has done them proud. I'm with Mary, one of the best Afro-jazz numbers I've seen. The technique was excellent, and Shane and Melissa had down pat that controlled abandon that sets Afro-jazz apart from other styles. "I have to say to you, Shane and Melissa, you guys are true testaments to what success is: perseverance and a hell of a lot of passion," Tre said.

I'm not going to even try to predict who'll end up in bottom three Tuesday night, but I think it will be a hard cut for the judges to make. Find out who goes at 8 p.m. on CTV and look for the recap here.

Source The Star

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Posted in 2011 So You Think You Can Dance Canada , Christian Millette , dance salsa , Denitsa Ikonomova , Joey Arrigo , Jordan Clark , JP Dube , Lindsay Leuschner , So You Think You Can Dance Canada

Getting to know Cuba

The colors, smells and energy are overwhelming

Arriving in Havana by night is only fair for your five senses. They would be overwhelmed if you arrived in the middle of a clear-blue Caribbean day.

Even still, you'll need all the olfactory, auditory and visual capacity you can muster to process a Havana night.

It's been a lifelong dream of mine to travel to Cuba, a dream that grew more desperate as Cuba's aging revolutionary leader, Fidel Castro, became more frail.

I wanted to see the Havana of legend, the '53 Chevys, the mansions of Batista's era faded to a dull, communist gray. I wanted to see the salsa clubs, the poverty and the passion of Castro's Cuba.

Most of all, I wanted to see people of Havana, the thriving masses of islanders stuck in neutral for more than 50 years, a people who prompt more curiosity world-wide than just about any country.
Havana after nightfall

When the sun falls to the west of the city, dips down below the Malecon and slides into the Caribbean Sea like an orange slice into a tropical drink, there sounds an inaudible call for the city's 3 million residents.

The street population swells with the fading light. The barrios that surround and make up La Habana Vieja, or old Havana, become little lighted worlds unto themselves. The old gather under streetlights to smoke cigars and play dominos and the young strut like peacocks in fiery, skin-tight fabrics of pink, orange or lime.

In the hotel district, the tree-lined Prado promenade offers a people-watching paradise. On its mosaic marble tiles tread the feet of Habaneros, the affectionate term for those Cubans who live in Havana. They filter out of the barrios in droves for a look at the bourgeois tourists inclined to wander no further than the verandas of the few restored hotels.

The afternoon siesta has ended by 6 p.m. Dinner is hours away and the Habaneros begin to visit the small bodegas, often just a barred window into which some pesos are passed before a hand extends with a shot of coffee, a bottle of water or beer. For many Cubans, this is the only allowable exchange of goods for money near the tourist centers.

After their first, and usually only, purchase of the night, it will be all window-shopping and American dreams for the hungry Habaneros.

I'm told that heat is always an issue in Havana, where the Centro area is typically several degrees warmer than the rest of the city due to high-density population, lack of green spaces and poor building design.

When you step outside the air-conditioned room in your hotel, the oppressive humidity bears down on you with all the force of a tropical storm. No material will make your clothes comfortable in this combination of heat and moisture, though linen feels better than cotton. No sooner have you dried yourself after a second or third shower of the day than your skin is damp again. The Habaneros would as soon walk around sans clothing, but a communist sense of modesty pervades the culture and prevents complete nudity.
The sound of Havana

Music pulses at all hours, directing the undulating crowds. Just under the riffles of jazz guitar, the scratchy maracas and the tropical pop of the bongo drums is the deeper, more-resonant sound of the African drums. You can't hear it exactly, it's almost as if they were played on that faraway continent in another time and carried here on the same jet stream that carries the big storms from the Sahara.

But you can feel the African drums in the marrow of your bones. The Habaneros feel it too, and they congregate in writhing clumps of torsos and limbs, a gyrating mass of brown, black and light skin in tune with the frenetic energy of the Havana night. There are no boundaries for the music or the dancing. Each could start sporadically inside a night club or on a dirty street corner.

There is electricity in the air. Light shows over Havana harbor stay in the distance, producing an anxiety that can only be soothed by the plop of hot raindrops, the reassurance that a tropical thunderstorm brings.

When the salsa clubs open around 9 p.m., the Habaneros move toward their favorite nightspots. The tourists migrate to the hotels where the salsa shows are practiced and safe, where plastic-fabricated clothing enhances the dance and the dancers are paid to play.

In the barrios, where the Habaneros dance in back-room bars to the beat of the Afro-Cuban All Stars and overdubbed salsa pop, clothing only accentuates the most flamboyant dancers, the good dancers let their skin and their moves produce the show.

Amidst the music and the tightly controlled motions of the most disciplined salsa dancers, there is a release of sorts. Waves of pent up energy are given off with each hip thrust and trumpet blast. And when the music subsides, for it never dies away completely, they wander back out into the streets with wide eyes, eager for the remains of the night.
In the wee hours

It is in the wee hours that you notice the rum bottles passed around. The sweet smell of it wafts over the scent of ficus trees and perfumed women, or chicas as the men call them. Around 2 p.m., the rhythm of the night plays a descending scale and hums along at a lower cadence and with sweeter melodies.

The heat doesn't seem quite so oppressive now and the Habaneros are on concrete benches, arms and legs intertwined, the bottles clinking against statues of Cuban heroes. It is at this moment that you can finally tear your eyes from the sights and sounds, your nose has become somewhat accustomed to the smells, just enough to wake you to the realization that you are tired.

This is the Havana I came to see, smell, touch and to hear. The city and its people were everything I imagined and perhaps even more vivid than the colors and smells conjured in my mind from photographs and descriptive stories.

Source TIMOTHY ALEX AKIMOFF

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Posted in Afro-Cuban All Stars , cuba , Cuban , dance salsa , Habaneros , Havana , Salsa

Bronx Salsa festival set to bring back spice to the boogie down

The Bronx has many nicknames, such as the Boogie Down and The BX. But in tribute to another moniker, El Condado De La Salsa (The Salsa Borough), Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. is kicking off the first Bronx SalsaFest.

"The Bronx helped propel salsa into an international phenomenon," said Diaz.

The four days of festivities will get started Thursday with a Warm-Up Party at 7p.m. at Pregones Theater, 571 Walton Ave. in Mott Haven.

The free event includes a screening of the award-winning documentary "From Mambo To Hip Hop, A South Bronx Tale," a salsa dancing lesson and a discussion on the history of salsa music.

Doris Quinones, who heads the Bronx Tourism Council, said the goal of the initiative is to reclaim the genre for the Bronx and bring the community together.

"The great things about salsa is that it's really intergenerational," she said. "You're just as likely to have a young girl or boy who is learning the basic steps dancing alongside the abuelita [grandmother] who is doing her thing."

Bronx SalsaFest will run through Sunday. Highlights also include a Bronx Salsa Trolley tour tomorrow, a Latin music concert at Lehman Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday and live music at Orchard Beach on Sunday.

SalsaFest is being sponsored by the Bronx Tourism Council and funded in part by the NYC & Company Foundation.

For more information, visit www.bronxsalsafest.com or call the Tourism Council at (718) 590-3527.

Real life to reel life

The Bronx International Film Festival is back tomorrow and Saturday with eight additional films.

The lineup includes "Below New York," an in-depth look at some of the city's top subway performers, musicians and artists, and "You Have the Right to an Attorney," a documentary on the offices of the Bronx Defenders nonprofit legal assistance group.

Tickets cost $5. Shows start at 8 p.m. The festival will be held at the Lovinger Theatre. For more information, call (718) 907-0079 or visit www.bronxstages.com.

Writers and riders

The Bronx Council on the Arts is launching a new program for aspiring young writers.

Starting next Tuesday, participants in the Bronx Write Bus Free Summer Youth Program will ride a bus to art and cultural events across the city.

During the journey, a writer or performer will introduce the youngsters to various writing forms - including humor, memoir, travel writing, playwriting and poetry.

The program is designed for kids ages 12-18. For more information, (718) 931-9500, Ext. 21.

Source Tanyanika Samuels

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Posted in Bronx Council , Bronx SalsaFest , dance salsa , salsa dancing , South Bronx Tale

The 'So You Think You Can Dance' Guest Judges: Big Names and Even Bigger Names

How do you top the combination of hot-tamale Mary Murphy and dancingly-dour Nigel Lythgoe? Apparently you do it with guest judges. On the same day that FOX announced actress Megan Mullally as the week-1 guest, reports have surfaced about a whole host of incredible celebrities set to grace the SYTYCD judging table.

The dancers are going to have to perform their socks off if they want to upstage these people.

According to a report from Xfinity TV News, Nigel Lythgoe has announced the names of some stars who will lend a hand at the judging table this season.

The biggest name? Lady Gaga. Seriously. According to Lythgoe: "I asked her when she performed on the American Idol finale if she would come on and she said yes." Nigel further commented that the date for Lady Gaga's arrival had not yet been set but would most likely be later in the season.

Lady Gaga is not the only guest judge of the season. Nigel Lythgoe also announced that Kristin Chenoweth, known for her work on both Broadway and television (Glee, Pushing Daisies and the upcoming Good Christian Belles), will also help out the judges. There is no word yet on when Chenoweth will judge.

As far as potential guest judge names go, Nigel had even more news. TV personalities Ellen DeGeneres and Neil Patrick Harris are apparently talking to producers about coming on the show. Harris has had a strong stage career (complete with some awesome dance moves) and Ellen is just Ellen -- great to have around.

Leaving aside the judges and moving to potential all-stars, So You Think You Can Dance viewers will be very happy with the potential inclusion of Alex Wong. The popular dancer was forced to withdraw from last season's competition due to an injury, and Nigel commented on how much the show wanted to bring him back: "Alex Wong is not fit enough to be a competitive dancer. Hopefully he is going to be fit enough, and hopefully he will be complementary to whoever is at the show at that point when it comes time to picking the all-stars."

Want more So You Think You Can Dance scoop? Check out our SYTYCD Insider page on Facebook.

Are you excited for all of these guest judges? Do they enhance the show, or do you find that they distract from the dancing? Who would be your dream guest judge? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

Source Laurel Brown

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Posted in dance salsa , ellen degeneres , lady gaga , Lady Gaga 2011 , Mary Murphy , Neil Patrick Harris , Nigel Lythgoe , salsa dance , So You think you can dance , SO You think you can dance 2011

Jennifer Lopez Is Gaga For Gaga

We love "Hypnotico," one of the songs that Lady Gaga wrote for Jennifer Lopez's new album, Love?, (which came out on May 3rd), but we're not the only ones who think Gaga and Lopez make a great team.

In an interview with MTV News, J.Lo gushed about having the opportunity to collaborate with Gaga and with producer RedOne on her new album. "I think RedOne's sound is very specific, but he also can be very individual for each artist that he works with. He makes a record sound so big and important," said Lopez. "When he would play me different tracks and even the beginnings of ideas and when he told me, 'Actually I worked with Gaga on this,' and I was like, 'Really? That's awesome. Is it OK?' and he [was] like, 'Yeah, yeah.' You know, they write and produce together a lot. So, it was exciting. I kind of just lucked out on that one."

Lopez tells the website that her new album has been years in the making. "It's been quite a process, but I've been saying lately that I've been actually making this record since I was 13 years old — the first time I fell in love — because it's true, all the thoughts and all the things that went into this album were questions and things that I've had over the years," she says.

Lopez, who has many songs about love on her new album, says the subject of love is interesting to her. "Love is a very complex topic and I've been singing about it since my first album, and this was kind of the culmination of that."

"I wanted to pose some questions and get the dialogue going about love," she added. "I wanted to make a great dance, rhythmic album, as well ... and we did that. I had great producers ... who helped me do that, helped take me and put it into this generation of music with all of that [and] we still were able to do that."



Source Lee Hernandez

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Posted in dance salsa , fashion latinas , Hypnotico , Jennifer Lopez , jlo new album 2011 , lady gaga , mtv unplugged

Beating Sickeness Without Medication

Certain types of dances such as tango, salsa, belly dance (belly dance) and some other dances are not only useful to burn calories, because this dance can make a person live longer and be free of certain diseases.

Dancing can be one of physical activity preferred by many people. Besides fun, dancing can also provide health benefits for the body.

There are health benefits derived from the following dance types:

1. Salsa dance can fight depression
Studies at the University of Derby in the year 2007 showed a person who learned salsa can help fight depression.

Researchers revealed that the dancing could trigger the release of happy hormones in the brain and help improve concentration and self-esteem. Also very good salsa also help lower back mobility.

2. Country dance can strengthen bones
Studies conducted Glasgow Caledonian University last year showed Scottish country dancing can help bone density. The style of this dance can give strength to the ankle, stability and balance.

3. Tango dance can improve the balance of the body
Researchers at Washington University found this dance can help improve balance and mobility of patients with Parkinson’s disease, namely progressive condition of a nervous breakdown.

The movement turned and walked backwards very relevant to people with the condition. Tango also help increase upper body strength.

4. Dance Foxtrot may delay dementia
Researchers from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York tells the parents involved this dance may have a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease and make the body fit that provides protection against disease.

5. Belly Dancing (belly dance) can increase sexual stamina
Belly dance can help strengthen the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles of women. This can help improve the sensitivity and orgasm during sex.

And reduce the problems of women such as bladder control, especially after childbirth. This dance is also a flat stomach, strengthen your arms and back muscles effectively.

6. Jive dance can prevent diabetes
Jive is one of the best cardiovascular exercises with a focus on the mobility of the foot, and this dance could make a person sweat.

It is known that sweating body will help you lose weight, thereby reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Source healthyandhappylife

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Posted in ballroom dancing , belly dancing , cha cha , Country dance , dance Foxtrot , dance salsa , global salsa events , jive dance , latin dance , salsa dance , salsacircuit , Tango dance

Top Songs by Celia Cruz

A Compilation of Hit Songs from The Queen of Salsa

The following list offers some of the most famous songs by Celia Cruz. From "Tu Voz" to "La Vida Es Un Carnaval," this compilation shows why Celia Cruz was considered the Queen of Salsa. Her charismatic personality, powerful voice and vibrant style made of Celia Cruz one of the most influential figures in Latin music.

10. “Tu Voz”


"Photo Courtesy Seeco
There has to be a bolero in any list dealing with best songs by Celia Cruz. "Tu Voz" is my personal choice in this field, leaving out of the list other tracks like "Te Busco" and "Dile Que Por Mi No Tema." However, this could be the bolero that better captures Celia's voice. A fantastic song from her beginnings with La Sonora Matancera.

9. “La Ceiba Y La Siguaraya”

Photo Courtesy Fania

In my opinion, "La Ceiba Y La Siguaraya" is one of the best Salsa songs ever recorded by Celia Cruz. This single is the star track from La Ceiba, the collaboration album between the Queen of Salsa and the legendary Puerto Rican Salsa band La Sonora Ponceña. "La Ceiba Y La Siguaraya" is also a perfect song for dancing.


8. “Burundanga”

Photo Courtesy Pimienta Records

This is another classic song from the times Celia Cruz used to sing with the legendary Cuban band La Sonora Matancera. It was her ticket to capture audiences in New York back in 1957 when she visited the Big Apple for the first time. A colorful song enhanced by the memorable trumpets of the Cuban band.

7. “Azucar Negra”

Photo Courtesy Universal Latino

From her 1998 album with the same name, "Azucar Negra" was the most popular track from this musical production. Every time Celia Cruz went to stage her distinctive call "Azucar!" drove people crazy. This song not only enhances that call but alsot Celia's African roots. "Azucar Negra" (Brown Sugar) was one of the most famous songs by Celia Cruz.

6. “Quimbara”

Photo Courtesy Fania

"Quimbara" is one of those songs that helped build the whole musical brand around the Queen of Salsa. This single is dominated by great percussion and trumpet sessions. By far, one of the best dancing songs by Celia Cruz.

5. “Sopita En Botella”

"Photo Courtesy Pimienta Records

From her productive years with la Sonora Matancera, "Sopita En Botella" is one of the songs that shaped the Salsa style that characterized Celia Cruz's throughout her successful career. Salsa fans know this is one of the best songs by Celia Cruz. Her performance is fantastic in a single that needs the voice in the right place at the right time.

4. “Yerbero Moderno”

Photo Courtesy Pimienta Records

This track is another classic from Celia Cruz. It is, in fact, difficult to find a compilation of Celia's hits without this song. This single offers a good beat of Rumba that is exalted by Celia Cruz's powerful voice. A classic track not only for Salsa but for Latin music in general.

3. “Guantanamera”

Photo Courtesy Fania

Even if you are not into Latin music, you know that "Guantanamera" is at the heart of Latin music. This song, which is part of the Cuban identity, was taken to new levels of popularity thanks to Celia Cruz's fantastic version. Very often, when we think of Guantanamera, we think of Celia Cruz and we think of Cuba.

2. “La Negra Tiene Tumbao”

Photo Courtesy Sony Music Latin

"La Negra Tiene Tumbao" proved that Celia Cruz was an artist in constant evolution ready to answer the call of her time. This song provides a modern beat quite different from all the classic repertoire Celia Cruz built throughout her career. With this track, Celia Cruz showed to the world the eternal artist she was.

1. “La Vida Es Un Carnaval”

Photo Courtesy RMM Records

Commercially speaking, "La Vida Es Un Carnaval" was one of the most popular songs by Celia Cruz. Those who grew up with Celia's music know that this is not her best song. However, younger generations made of this track a point of reference for Celia's music. Regardless of all this, "La Vida Es Un Carnaval" was probably the best way for Celia to share with the world her never ending happy spirit. In the end, she lived her own life like a carnival full of smiles and joy. Definitely, one of the most uplifting songs by Celia Cruz.


Source Carlos Quintana

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Posted in celia cruz , celia cruz salsa , dance salsa , dance salsacircuit , fashion latinas , queen of salsa , top songs celia cruz

Cloris Leachman: 'Light on Her Feet' Kirstie Alley Will Win 'Dancing'

Hollywood veteran Cloris Leachman is convinced Kirstie Alley will win this season's 'Dancing With the Stars,' telling me she's been pleasantly surprised at how graceful the full-figured actress has been.

"I was surprised how light she is on her feet," Cloris told me on the red carpet at the TV Land Awards on Sunday. "She's going to go much further than I went in the competition and I think she is going to win."

That's high praise from Cloris, who famously shimmied her then 82-year-old body to seventh place in the 2008 season. Three years later, the Oscar winner hasn't stopped dancing.

She glided up and down the red carpet several times before taking the stage to accept an award with her ''Facts of Life' cast, including Charlotte Rae, Geri Jewell, Mindy Cohn and Kim Fields.

Busy Cloris is currently starring as Maw Maw in the FOX series 'Raising Hope' and admitted to me she only saw the first couple of episodes of this 'Dancing' season.

So while Cloris believes Kirstie has been graceful, she may change her tune after Monday's performance when the 'Cheers' star temporarily lost her shoe during a routine with partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy.

"I'm not doing a sitcom," Alley told TV Squad after Monday's show. "I'm actually doing a dance show. I'm tired of having to recover. I would just like to do something right. I don't feel like I'm jinxed. I just need to get my [act] together. There's something going on. Our rehearsals are swell. We're bitchin' in rehearsals."

Source Rob Shuter

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Posted in Best Dress 2011 , Cloris Leachman , Dance , dance after age 60 , dance lessons , dance salsa , dance salsacircuit , Dancing With the Stars , Kirstie Alley

What Is Ballroom and Latin Dancing?

Ballroom dancing consist of two main branches:

1. American Style Ballroom Dancing
2. International Style Ballroom Dancing

American Ballroom dancing is composed of two subcategories. Those two categories are American Style Smooth and American Style Rhythm. American Style Smooth is composed of Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot and Viennese Waltz. American Style Rhythm is composed of Rumba, East Coast Swing, Cha Cha, Bolero, and Mambo.

International Ballroom Dancing is composed of international standard and international latin. International Standard is Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, and Quickstep. International Style Latin is composed of Rumba, Cha Cha, Samba, Paso Doble, and Jive.

A large percentage of the techniques and figures overlap from international style dancing to American style dancing. At a social level a good follower should be able to follow international style figures even if they're trained in American style, and a good international style dancer should be able to follow American style figures even if they've been trained in international.

In the competitive world, international style dancing is more popular around the world. What's considered to be the championship of ballroom and latin dancing, is held in Blackpool England every year and held in International Style Dancing.

If you are learning how to dance for social reasons, you will want to learn some other dances that are outside the scope of traditional ballroom. Those dances are salsa, merengue, bachata, and west coast swing. Across the USA, those 4 dances have become extremely popular and are critical to learning if you are interested in learning social dance. Within the American social ballroom world, two of the most commonly danced dances within traditional ballroom are Waltz, Tango, Rumba, East Coast Swing, and Cha Cha. If you are interested in learning how to dance, you will want to figure out your goals. If your goal is to go out dancing at a local latin dance club, you will want to learn salsa, merengue, bachata.

flickr

Ballroom dancing is a ton of fun and has become increasingly popular in the USA. I encourage you to try it and see if you like it. It is a great hobby that may be able to help you to stay in shape and enjoy life just a little bit more.

Alex is a professional ballroom and latin dance instructor and offers dance lessons to people in the Chicago Illinois and Naperville Illinois area in Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Salsa, Swing, Cha Cha, Rumba, and More!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alexander_Bogdan

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Shakira, IDB donate $ 800 000 to Haiti

The Inter-American Development Bank and theFundación Pies Descalzos , Colombian artist Shakira, donated today (31/03) $ 800 thousand dollars for the reconstruction of a historic school in the Haitian capital, which was badly damaged by the quake that hit city in 2010.

"I'm sure the only thing that will change the destiny of Latin America and the Caribbean is that governments put in the center of investment in quality education for all children, from birth and forever," said Shakira in ceremony held in the school yard Elie Dubois.

Colombian singer / songwriter immersed in her world tour "rising sun" today made a brief stop to visit Haiti, where it already was in January 2010 a few days after the powerful earthquake that hit Port au Prince and other cities and left 316,000 dead, 300 000 wounded and 1.5 million homeless.

Upon delivery of the donation was also attended by President of IDB, Luis Alberto Moreno of Colombia also, as well as government authorities, international community representatives, teachers and students.

Moreno said in a statement that "education is critical to the future of Haiti." "Today we are here not only to support the rebuilding of a school, but to express our support for Haiti's efforts to transform its education system," he said.

Founded in 1913, Elie Dubois school has provided over the years secondary education and vocational training to young generations of Haitians under the guidance of the Catholic order Sisters of Mary.

IDB supports, along with donor countries and international organizations, the reform launched by Haiti last year to expand access to free quality education for children and youth in the country, the poorest of America.

The local education minister, Joel Jean-Pierre Desrosiers, highlighted in the activity, with international aid, Haiti was able to resume classes for more than one million students after the earthquake, which destroyed or damaged thousands of schools.

The local education reform plan envisages the construction of a 2 000 500 schools across the country over five years, and the recovery of schools affected by the quake.

The IDB expects to donate $ 250 million over five years to support the plan and also aims to bring together and mobilize the same amount of money from traditional donors, private companies and philanthropic foundations.

While the Haitian government to invest in building new public schools larger and designed to withstand earthquakes and hurricanes.

Source todanoticia
images dailylife

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Posted in dance salsa , dance salsacircuit , Haiti , IDB , Inter-American Development Bank , shakira , shakira loca , waka waka shakira