Cha Cha

There are three flavors of Cha-cha-cha dance, differing by the place of the chachacha chasse with respect to the musical bar. Ballroom Cha-cha and street Cha-cha-cha in Cuba count “two-three-chachacha”. Country/western Cha-cha-cha and Latin street Cha-cha-cha in many places other than Cuba count “one-two-chachacha” or “chachacha-three-four”.

Guajira, a product of triple Mambo via Danzon predates all the “social” versions. The Guajira rhythm, is still used as the basis by Cubans and Puerto Ricans, who are of the belief, that the other versions were anglicised to suit the American market. As is usual with the more authentic forms of dance, a very limited variety of steps is used. It can still be seen danced in many South Florida night clubs.

Cha Cha is either danced to authentic Latin music, or more contemporary Latin Pop or Latin Rock. The music for the ballroom Cha-cha-cha is energetic and with a steady beat. The “Latin” cha-cha-cha is slower, more sensual and may involve complicated rhythms. “Cowboy” Cha-Cha-Cha is danced basically to any “four to the floor” music; in addition there are a number of C/W novelty dances with the names that include “cha-cha-cha”.

Footwork: In general, steps in all directions should be taken first with the ball of the foot in contact with the floor, and then with the heel lowering when the weight is fully transferred; however, some steps require that the heel remain lifted from the floor. When weight is released from a foot, the heel should release from the floor first, allowing the toe to maintain contact with the floor.