The Cha Cha became popular in America in about 1954. It’s one of the most popular dances in Latin- America. It’s a very flirtatious and energetic dance.
It was first known at the Cha- Cha- Cha, but was later shortened. The name came from the sound of the dancers’ shoes moving and tapping the floor. It originated in the 1940’s from the dances of the Mambo and the Swing. In 1953 the Cubin Orchestra started playing the song “Danzon” but with a newer beat, it sounded like a slower Mambo. On the slower counts of the song, Cuban dancers used a slight hip sway. After a while it was changed to a triple step and the Cha Cha was officially created. In 1959, America was “gaga over Cha Cha”. Dance studios reported that it was one of the most popular dances there and is still Latin dance in the U.S. today.
Like most typical Latin dances, the Cha Cha is done with feet remaining close to the floor. The dancers’ hips are relaxed to allow more movement in the hip area. The hip movement is known as the Latin or Cuban motion. If you want to dance the Cha Cha like a professional, you will need to master the move. The move mainly comes from one knee bending and the other knee straitening, causing the hips to move side to side. You will also need to keep small steps throughout the entire dance. It’s also very important to understand the timing of the music to perform the dance correctly. The steps to the music are usually 1, 2, 3, 4 or 1, 2, 3, cha cha. The Cha Cha is a very upbeat and exciting dance and many people enjoy it!
“Cha Cha Dance History.” Cha Cha Dance History. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Sept. 2012. <http://www.centralhome.com/ballroomcountry/cha-cha-cha.htm>.
“The History of the Cha Cha.” The Cha Cha Dance History. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Sept. 2012. <http://www.dancelovers.com/cha_cha_history.html>.
“Cha Cha.” About.com Dance. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Sept. 2012. <http://dance.about.com/od/partnerdancestyles/qt/Cha_Cha.htm>.