I’m trying to book a male revue (chippendale type) event for a Ladies Nite event at a dance club in SW Virginia. Anybody know where I can do some price comparisons for a few different companies?
I would call the local strip clubs in the area you’re looking at and see what they think. Maybe they offer something like that already, or can point you in the direction of someone who can help.
There is no greater reason to diet than for your personal health and well being. Those of us who are overweight know better than most the risks and possible consequences that may result because of our weight. Much like smokers however, the risks do not always seem quite so cut and dry until we reach our very own turning point. Whether your eating habits are born of an addiction to certain foods, an emotional need, or years of learned behavior and conditioning things will not change until you completely adjust your eating habits and your lifestyle choices.
Dieting for many has become a lifestyle in and of itself with people rapidly flip-flopping or yo-yoing from one diet to another with little success and growing despair over a sheer lack of results. The truth is that until you decide to forgive yourself for your failures and get right back on the wagon, so to speak, after falling off no diet is going to be successful. A simple diet isnât going to magically make the pounds disappear and constantly depriving yourself of those things you enjoy most may have a more detrimental effect than a positive effect.
The number one thing most people need to learn is that dieting isnât always a good thing. What most people who are overweight need more than anything else is to incorporate positive lifestyle changes into their daily routines. People scoff at the notion of taking the stairs or parking farther away and yet those are perfectly plausible methods of working a little more physical activity into your day. If those do not work for you how about learning to dance? Seriously, there are beginner dance classes in most communities that will welcome and invite dances of all ages, sizes, and fitness levels if you are willing to make the effort. What a great way to get fit, learn something new, and have fun without filling deprived.
Another great thing about an activity such as a dance class (consider ballroom dancing with your significant other) is that you are not eating or tempted to eat during the time that you are dancing in most cases. Another great thing is that you are burning those calories you didnât eat. If dancing isnât you thing, try joining a walking club or finding another hobby. Anything that gets you on your feet and away from the temptation of your refrigerator is a good thing when it comes to dieting and weight loss. You cannot lose a significant amount of weight by dieting alone. You must incorporate physical fitness into your daily routine in order to achieve those immediate and visually stunning results that many dieters are hoping to achieve.
Another pitfall when it comes to dieting is that people give up far too quickly. Just as the results are beginning and progressing people get tired of the process or frustrated that they arenât accomplishing enough dramatic weight loss as quickly as they had hoped and give up all together marking off yet another failure when they could have achieved greater success than ever before if they had stuck with their original diet plan a little longer.
One more thing you should remember when it comes to dieting is that the scale can be your best friend or your worst enemy when dieting. If you are weighing yourself every day in hopes of watching the scale tick off yet another pound you are dooming yourself to failure. You will never achieve the results you are hoping for you if you are going into depressive bouts of Rocky Road or Chunky Monkey every night because you didnât lose 10 pounds overnight.
When it comes to dieting there are very few diets that work, one of the best at moment on the market is the Strip Fat DietÂ
Simon Fusco
http://www.articlesbase.com/weight-loss-articles/dieting-for-health-717447.html
Manchester is situated in the North West of England was granted city standing in 1853. A mammoth conurbation, it has a population of 452 000, which makes it the fourteenth larger populated center in Europe.
The conurbation has two major train station, Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria. It is also served by local and national bus and coach services, many of which depart from the city’s Chorlton Street Bus Station.
Manchester was the key industrialised borough in the world and it was at the heart of the automated Revolution. Indeed, it was the international centre of textile manufacture and cotton spinning amid this time. Because of this, it acquired the nickname Cottonopolis meanwhile the 19th century due to its myriads cotton mills.
Due to its striking network of canals and 19th century cotton mills, Manchester town centre is now on a tentative list of UNESCO World convention stages. All the same, numerous of these mills demonstrate now been converted into flats and offices.
These days, Manchester remains very proud of its mechanical olden days. Despite this, it has become a growing, present place that is widely regarded as the capital of the North West.
There are lots of tasks in Manchester, including a wealth of museums and art galleries. Some of the superior are URBIS, the Museum of science and industry and the Whitworth Art Gallery.
The Whitworth art gallery has a large permanent compilation of work, including art by artists these as Picasso, Paul Klee and David Hockney. As well as this, the gallery also has legions touring exhibitions.
Manchester is a wonderful compass for shop lovers, as it fanfaronades a wide range of shops to suit any budget. From designer stores such as harvey nicholls and armani, to high street stores such as new look, you will find everything you need here.
For more stores, you will be pleased to know that the enormous trafford centre is just a short drive or bus ride away. This huge shopping middle has 280 stores and is one of the largest shopping centres in the UK.
Manchester has prestigious night-life, so it is a fabulous neighborhood to look in for a night out. From redoubtable restaurants to trendy bars and cool nightclubs, there is something for everyone here.
You could begin your evening with a pint of real ale in one of the city’s quirky public houses. Alternatively, you could delight in a glass of wine or a tasty cocktail in one of Manchester’s more sophisticated bars. Afterwards, you could move on to another drinking house or even to a club, where you will be able to dance the night away. It goes without saying that Manchester has a wide range of clubs, so you are undeniable to find one that plays the music you dote on.
If you are searching for somewhere special to stay along your tour to Manchester, you certainly will not be disappointed. In fact, the borough has branches of larger major chain hotels, including the malmaison and the Hilton.
For travellers on a budget, you will be pleased to know that the metropolis has numerous guesthouses and b and bs too.
Graciela Saltise
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/adore-the-marvelous-renown-theatres-in-chorltoncumhardy-728820.html
1) Beach & Surf
Bali is well known for its pristine white beaches and secluded coves, the most famous beaches being in Nusa Dua where long stretches of soft white sand will soothe and comfort the soles of your feet. Many hotels have their own private stretch of beach with a Beach club or restaurant along. Kuta and Uluwatu are areas in South Bali well known for their good surf which makes Bali one of the most popular surf destinations in the world.
2) Padi fields
The beautiful terraced green padi fields are another must see for a visitor to the island of Bali. Many tourists will automatically head to Ubud, about 45 minutes from Bali Airport to stay in a hotel and villa overlooking the padi fields. The best padi field scenery is at Jatih Luwih and Tegallalang which are not far from Ubud.
3) Galleries and Museums
Beautiful paintings can be found in Ubud, home of many of Bali’s well known and aspiring artists. The peaceful scenery and tranquility of the area must be an inspiration for the remarkably detailed paintings these artists create and whose works are displayed in the numerous art galleries and museums found in Ubud village. Some of the more well known galleries are The Agung Rai Museum of Art, Neka Museum, Antonio Blanco Renaissance Museum, Komaneka Gallery and Seniwati Gallery of Art by Women just to name a few.
4) Dance and Music
Dance and music plays a very important part of the life of a Balinese. Every ceremony and festival is almost always accompanied by traditional dance and the soothing sounds of the Gamelan. You will find many locations in and near Ubud where you can watch these dance performances. Dancers wear glittery and colourful costumes, executing to perfection elaborate hand movements and facial expressions to convey stories of the Ramanaya. You can watch the elegant Legong Dance at the Ubud Palace in central Ubud, or see other entertaining performances such as the Warrior Dance and Kecak Dance at other locations within the town. Wayang Kulit, or Shadow Play performances are also a common evening entertainment for the local Balinese and tourists alike.
5)Â Yoga and Spa Treamtents
There is a growing number of world class spa facilities and health resorts in Bali especially in the Ubud area. Using natural herbs and indigenous products, you will have a wide variety of spa treatments to choose from and enjoy. Spa treatments are ideal for relaxation and what every person who needs a break from this fast paced world of work, family and stress will surely appreciate. A variety of massages using traditional, Aryuvedic, Shiatsu and hot stones are on the menu for you to choose from. Traditional treatments such as Boreh and Lulur are common. Facials, foot massages, healthy meals and private spa facilities are also available at some hotels and salons. Holistic resorts offer yoga programs and have resident teachers who will guide you to peace of mind.
6) Festivals and Ceremonies
Religion plays a central role in the life of every Balinese family. The island has hundreds of temples, for which each and every one has a temple anniversary, known as Odalan. On this day, the villagers visit the temple for prayers and socializing. It can be considered a community event to bring the people together and promotes good feelings between villagers. With the Balinese Hindu religion comes many daily practices such as placing offerings such as trays of flowers called Canang Sari in temples, shrines and symbolic locations to ward off evil and please the Gods. Nyepi Day, which is the Balinese New Year is a day that is spent in silence in reflective prayer and meditation. The days before Nyepi however provide many opportunities for a tourist to witness ceremonies and rituals including the noisy and colourful Ogoh-Ogoh procession which happens one day before Nyepi, on Melasti Day. This procession is a colourful display of the creativity of the Balinese where towering papier mache âmonstersâ are paraded through the town in noisy processions in efforts to chase away any evil.
Galungan is another major festival for the Balinese which at the end of 10 days is marked by Kuningan Day. This festival occurs every six months so you will have the opportunity to see it in another half year if you miss the first round. During this time you will see the Barong Dance procession which goes through the village performing in front of shops and houses as an act of purification. Cremations are another village affair where the entire family and friends of the deceased are involved. The body is carried from the home grounds through the village to the cremation site where it is place in a towering sarcophagus and burnt to the ground.
7) Sea Sports
Bali has some of the most colourful and interesting sea life you will ever see. Well known dive sites are located in Amed and Tulamben where there are ship wrecks, in Menjangan Island in the North West, and Pandang Bali and Lembongan Island in the East to name a few. Nusa Dua and Sanur are ideal for snorkeling but there are many other areas as well.
Visit Active Volcanoes
Indonesia has hundreds of volcanoes and Bali has some of its own famous ones as well. Kintamani town is where you will see the 2800m high Mount Bali, a popular tourist destination in Bali. The volcano has a large caldera lake and it is possible to go on a sunrise hike to the top of Mount Batur if you can wake up early enough! Mount Agung, the location of Bali’s largest and most sacred temple, Puri Besakih, is Bali’s highest and most sacred mountain at 3142m high. Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple is where Bali’s most important ceremonies are held and worth visiting if you have the opportunity to go on an East Bali tour especially in April when the temple has its anniversary.
9) Land Adventure Activities
Apart from the southern tourist towns, Bali is an island still very much in its natural state compared to other tourist destinations. You will soon realise that there are many locations that provide the ideal terrain for exciting adventure activities. Bali is not only Kuta and Nusa Dua. Travel north and you will find out what the real Bali has to offer â culture, spectacular scenery and experiences that modern tourist towns with shopping malls are totally devoid of.
The rivers, mountains and jungles are all places where you can experience Bali away from the tourist crowds. White water rafting down the scenic Ayung or down the heart stopping Telaga River rapids is one of the more popular activities for tourists who come to Bali. A mountain bike ride from Kintamani down to Ubud through the padi fields and small villages with friendly locals is another leisurely activity for families and individuals alike. Bali is home to the Taro Elephant Park, complete with accommodation, activities and elephant fun for all ages. You can ride an elephant through the jungle, marvel at their intelligence and let them make you laugh when you visit the Taro Elephant safari park in Bali. Quad driving will take you through the jungles and rougher terrain. Canyon tubing where you sit in a floating tube and coast down a river through the jungle is another fun activity. A new attraction, the Bali Safari and Marine Park is a unique blend of wildlife conservation and culture. You will be able to see wildlife in their natural surroundings and learn about the ancient Balinese culture at this tourist attraction.
10) Shop till you drop
Finally what the first thing tourists tend to do on any trip and most certainly to Bali is to shop. You have Kuta Center, Galeria Nusa Dua, Matahari in Legian and Ubud Market where you will find bargains of all sorts. The Balinese are well known for their creative and artistic skills evident in the numerous arts and crafts found throughout the island. Many craft factories are found in Tegallalang and the surrounding area. Skilled silversmiths in the village of Celuk, sell their creations in eclectic shops in Ubud but you will be able to buy their jewelry at slightly better prices. Sukawati art market is where you will find many of the fabrics used in Balinese clothing as well as hand made crafts such as woven baskets at good prices. Crafts and statues are made from natural products found on Bali such as coconut wood, bamboo and volcanic sand stone. Masks and puppets make interesting gift items. You will also find many unique home decor items such as table runners, lamp shades and wall decorations to give your home a touch of Bali style when you return. Furniture items are often available at attractive prices compared to if you were to purchase them from outside of Bali.
So there you are, a list of many things you can do in Bali. Relax, get fit, have fun, gain new experiences and most of all, a memorable holiday. And if you count them up, you’ve got a lot more than 10 things to do there. This is by no means an exhaustive list but more than enough for a 3 to 7 day trip to this wonderful and magical island of the Gods.
Trias Bali Travel
http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/things-to-see-and-do-in-bali-749757.html
I quote this line all the time but I can’t find the video it goes with! I know it’s Strong Bad. He talks about going to a dance club but he pronounces it "cluuuhb"
I know it’s vague but please help if you can.
"Some towns have party clubs, but we’ve got our very own bona fide pwawty cloughb!"
is a line from ‘Nightlife’
http://www.hrwiki.org/wiki/nightlife
has the transcript if you want to check it out.
or http://www.homestarrunner.com/sbemail185.html is the episode.
The idea that men think about sex every seven seconds, like the claim that we only use 10 percent of our brains, is often repeated but rarely sourced.
Singles looking for love just about everywhere they go, whether they realize it or not.
Those that are single and looking for love or fun can meet people just about everywhere including at work, at the library, at the bank, and even at the grocery store. It’s usually our everyday tasks that put us in contact with people that we would consider dating, so it comes as no surprise that those that are single come into contact every day with someone who may be ideal for them.
Whether or not we seize the opportunity is another story altogether.
It’s a new trend to meet dates online. Great new online dating site full of dating features
Unfortunately, many singles continually look in the wrong place for love.
For instance, many go out week after week to bars and clubs claiming that they are looking for love, someone to really settle down with.
Unfortunately, a good portion of the people that are at the bars and clubs aren’t looking to settle down, they are looking to have a good time and hang out with people that also want to have a good time.
Single parents often complain about this dating dilemma as they’ll go to the places that are popular and attract fun people, but those fun people aren’t into coming home and taking care of the kids after their work and their play.
To look for serious love are places where you’ll find people that you have something in common with. If you love to dance, why not try to take some dance classes or join a dance group. Here you will not only be able to enjoy dancing (as you do in the club) but you may find someone who is fun to be with, shares your passion for dancing, and is ready to approach love and dating from a more serious angle.
The fact is that you can find people who enjoy the same things as you; you just may have to look in a different place to find someone that wants to enjoy you and those things for a longer period of time!
If you are looking for fun, then you can continue to go to the same places and meet the same sort of people.
But, if your complaints are that you cannot seem to meet men and women that want to date in a more serious capacity, why not review the places you are meeting other people and try to change it up a little bit so that you can still do what you want to do, you can just do it with people who are probably a bit more willing to settle down with you!
Then again, if you want to play safe and find the right person, you should try
Happy Hunting.
Source:http://www.vagr.com/blogcomments.php?bid=30
Suzy Bek
http://www.articlesbase.com/dating-articles/where-to-look-for-loveonline-dating-695830.html
Men often wonder if there is any explanation for the unimaginable concentration of extraordinarily stunning women, all in one hot, exotic country like Brazil. Actually, there are a multitude of reasons. Brazilian women are the descendants of generations of racial mixing, including Portuguese, Africans, indigenous peoples. In the 20th century, these mixed-race beauties combined with more recent immigrants from Germany, Italy, other Latin American countries, as well as from China and Japan. In a recent census, Brazilians were asked for the first time to write in their “race” instead of checking a box for African or Caucasian. The response led to over one hundred different categories, from “caramel” to “chocolate” to “café au lait.” While everyone can agree Brazilian women sound delicious, the truth is bare to the eyes: Brazilian women have an exotic beauty that is simply incomparable anywhere else in the world.
The country of Brazil has so much to offer the world and actively welcomes outsiders into its culture. You’ve probably heard about Carnival-the largest and most authentic Mardi Gras party in the world. You may even have heard of Brazilian music like bossa nova or tropicalia, and dances like the samba that, although invented in Brazil, today have enthusiastic followings worldwide. But without doubt you have heard (and seen) the beauties that are Brazilian women, by and large some of the most gorgeous women in the world. Supermodels like Gisele, and a new wave of popular singers like Bebel Gilberto and Maria Rita, combine good looks and an indescribable charm.
Brazilian girls, especially those living along the coastline in cities like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador de Bahia, value both their physical and mental appearance. They are in top shape and not ashamed to parade their gorgeous figures around in the trademark Brazilian string bikini or thong, popularly called fio dental (“dental floss”). Yet they are also modest women. Though you can see just about everything hanging out from these bikinis, you won’t find topless girls on the beach in Brazil, and nude beaches are only in designated locales. American girls who try to dress like Brazilian girls often come off looking low-class, but Brazilian women have an effable elegance and grace that carries them as true ladies. Their smiles are nothing less than divine, a window into an inner sweetness they share with their lovers and soul mates.
So what are Brazilian women like? They’re phenomenal! Brazilian girls share a profound love of life, they smile constantly, and they know how to have a good time. They don’t take life’s problems with any more seriousness than necessary, and they always “know” that good news is around the corner. Their optimism is balanced by a deep sense of compassion, family, and togetherness. While young girls like to play around and experiment, women in committed relationships are faithful and adoring. Women aspire to marry, and marriage is a large family affair. They expect to feel loved and return that love back to you tenfold. They are sensitive, sensual, and affectionate women, whose passion will turn you on and intrigue you from the first second.
The way to a Brazilian woman’s heart is through charm and honesty. Brazilian girls look for a sense of humor above all, and want to be proud of their companion. They admire men who are educated, responsible, and authoritative in the workplace, but soft and sweet in private. Brazilian women are fascinated by foreign men, especially those who show an active interest in their culture. Learning just a few words in Portuguese, or listening to famous Brazilian artists like Caetano Veloso, or Gilberto Gil, are guaranteed to get you in. “Você é gostosa!” – You are stunning – is a good start when learning Portuguese. Dancing and music are also important to Brazilian girls. Don’t worry if you can’t dance- let her teach you! The samba is both a dance and a type of music, a combination that is very sensual and worth learning together.
Many Brazilian women want to practice their English, and make great pen pals until you can meet in person. The Internet has really taken off in Brazil and is a fabulous way to get to know someone. Brazilian girls are friendly and affectionate, and it is easy to understand when they are interested in someone of the opposite sex. If you travel to Brazil, you’ll find that it is common to meet girls through friends or relatives, but it is just as common to meet them on the beach, in school, or in an upscale boite, or club. [A note of caution: stay away from bars that are known to cater exclusively to foreign men because these are generally filled with prostitutes, not the women you are looking for. They are easy to spot because there are 5 women for every man - a real club is more mixed].
However you meet your Brazilian girlfriend, treat her well. She will expect you to share in her culture and her family, and she will reward you with a lifetime of beauty, smiles, and optimism- treasures that cannot be found easily anywhere else in the world.
Garrett Williams
Picking up girls in clubs is not as easy as it seems! In fact in may come as a surprise to some, but I would actually argue that clubs are some of the toughest places to pick up girls believe it or not. There are a number of factors working against you, such as having to fight to be heard over the music, being crammed, and having to deal with her friends. However, despite these setbacks, there are actual methods of picking up girls in clubs.
You don’t have to be Don Juan to ensure your success when picking up girls in a club; but you do need a plan of attack (or game) before you approach the girl who has caught your eye. Follow this five step plan to develop the smoothness of Don Juan in a club!
1.) Before you approach the girl you are interested in a club, you should have positive signs from her body language. When approaching a girl in a club, you will most likely not be able to start a conversation with her (due to music being loud and other factors). Therefore, you need to court her via body language. You need to develop eye contact and smile. If she responds to your eye contact (by either looking back at you or smiling) then that is a green light to approach her. If you approach her without any positive signs, then you have the danger of appearing as a creepy guy in a club, which is what she is expecting from most guys and that will ruin your chances of attracting her.
2.) Don’t use some corny pick up line; for instance “Do you come here often?” or “can I buy you a drink?”. Remember you’re not the only player in the club! Your goal should be to set yourself apart from the average Joe. The approach that almost always guarantees success is “ask her to dance”. This shows her that you are confident and not worried about what others think; this move alone will set you apart from 90% of the other guys. However, this should be done after step one.
3.)Be responsible with your alcohol consumption; “Don’t get wasted” it is never attractive and marks a red flag about your future behavior.
4.)Once the conversation has started don’t talk about yourself too much! Show her that you are not just interested in sleeping with her, but you actually want to get to know her and like her for who she is. Everyone likes to feel important, and everyone’s favorite subject is always going to be themselves.
5.)Be a gentleman! You don’t have to be corny to be a gentleman; you should walk with her, not in front of her, and order her drink first. Basic manners your parents taught you.
Remember that picking up girls in clubs is not rocket science! If you approach her with confidence and the right attitude you will have more successes than failures.
For more information on reading her body language, and the steps to take once the conversation has started visit my website to get your hands on a free report that has changed the dating lives of many men.
Mark Taylor
http://www.articlesbase.com/dating-articles/secrets-to-picking-up-girls-in-clubs-733877.html
Dance has been an important part of rituals, celebrations and entertainment since before the birth of human civilization. In the beginning, before we had written language to record things, the purpose of dance was often to tell stories and to pass them down to future generations.
The story of dancing in Cuba
In Cuba, as in ancient times, dance tells its own story. The passion and energy of Cuban dance reveals the strength and conviction of the Cuban people, determined to enjoy life despite ‘la lucha’ (the struggle) of living in a strictly regulated country where the average monthly wage comes in at around 400 pesos – less than £10.
The richness of Cuban music and dancing also tells the story of Cuba’s melting pot of cultures. From the high-stepping flamenco brought by the Spanish settlers in the 15th century to the frenzied tribal dances of the West African slaves, dancing is in the blood of the Cuban people.
From the teenage girl in denim shorts to the cigar-seller on the street corner, Cubans are given to break into spontaneous dance steps. Furthermore, the people dancing on the streets of Havana are likely to be just as good as the professionals, because in Cuba dancing is simply a way of life.
The variety of Cuban dances
Cuba boasts a huge range of dances including classical ballet, contemporary, flamenco and folk dancing. But it is the partnered routines that appeared in Havana dancehalls between the 1920s and the 1950s – Salsa, rumba, mambo and cha-cha-cha – that can be seen in every Cuban bar, club and street. Of these, Salsa is the most popular dance internationally.
Since the name ‘Salsa’ (it’s Spanish for ‘sauce’) was coined, Salsa dancing has exploded in popularity in Latin America and across the world. Salsa dancing classes are now hugely popular but to really get into the swing of it a Salsa holiday in Cuba itself is a must.
Tips for Cuban Salsa dancing
If you do take yourself on a Cuban holiday, you’ll have the unique experience of watching Cubans Salsa dancing. It sometimes appears that by some genetic aberration they have been born with super flexible joints, defying physics to carry out all the complex manoeuvres they have integrated into the dancing. Their remarkable twisting body movements and natural sense of rhythm will dazzle you.
If you have the right technique, Cuban Salsa is easier to learn than many other forms of dance. The basic footwork is a fairly simple walking motion, pausing every fourth beat, and there are some six basic steps you can follow to make sure you’re on the right tracks.
1 Relax
To dance Cuban Salsa well it is important not to rush, but to relax into the steps. Movements should be precise and deliberate in addition to being flowing and smooth.
2 Walk with purpose
Salsa dancing involves a continual circular motion. Couples walk around each other with an imaginary axis between them. This makes turns look smooth and effortless. Walking gives time to untangle your arms after each turn.
3 Have confidence in your lead
The leader (usually the man) should have constant tension in his arms, while his hands guide his Salsa dancing partner around the floor. There is no need to clamp onto each other’s hands, only to use the right amount of tension to provide a leading signal.
4 Be flexible when following
In order to follow well, ladies should try to match the tension of their partner. The exception to this is when arms need to be relaxed and flexible to complete arm-twisting Salsa moves without injury!
5 Keep balanced when you spin
The key to all the spectacular spins in Salsa is not to lose your balance. One way to do it is by spotting while you spin – focusing on one spot at each turn – an age-old dance technique.
6 Use your body
In Salsa dancing, ladies should make use of their body and be sensual, playful and creative. This can involve some creative arm movements, going with what feels right and basically showing off a bit. Enjoy!
Emma Lelliott
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-stepbystep-guide-to-cuban-salsa-285297.html
Dance has been an important part of rituals, celebrations and entertainment since before the birth of human civilization. In the beginning, before we had written language to record things, the purpose of dance was often to tell stories and to pass them down to future generations.
The story of dancing in Cuba
In Cuba, as in ancient times, dance tells its own story. The passion and energy of Cuban dance reveals the strength and conviction of the Cuban people, determined to enjoy life despite ‘la lucha’ (the struggle) of living in a strictly regulated country where the average monthly wage comes in at around 400 pesos – less than £10.
The richness of Cuban music and dancing also tells the story of Cuba’s melting pot of cultures. From the high-stepping flamenco brought by the Spanish settlers in the 15th century to the frenzied tribal dances of the West African slaves, dancing is in the blood of the Cuban people.
From the teenage girl in denim shorts to the cigar-seller on the street corner, Cubans are given to break into spontaneous dance steps. Furthermore, the people dancing on the streets of Havana are likely to be just as good as the professionals, because in Cuba dancing is simply a way of life.
The variety of Cuban dances
Cuba boasts a huge range of dances including classical ballet, contemporary, flamenco and folk dancing. But it is the partnered routines that appeared in Havana dancehalls between the 1920s and the 1950s – Salsa, rumba, mambo and cha-cha-cha – that can be seen in every Cuban bar, club and street. Of these, Salsa is the most popular dance internationally.
Since the name ‘Salsa’ (it’s Spanish for ‘sauce’) was coined, Salsa dancing has exploded in popularity in Latin America and across the world. Salsa dancing classes are now hugely popular but to really get into the swing of it a Salsa holiday in Cuba itself is a must.
Tips for Cuban Salsa dancing
If you do take yourself on a Cuban holiday, you’ll have the unique experience of watching Cubans Salsa dancing. It sometimes appears that by some genetic aberration they have been born with super flexible joints, defying physics to carry out all the complex manoeuvres they have integrated into the dancing. Their remarkable twisting body movements and natural sense of rhythm will dazzle you.
If you have the right technique, Cuban Salsa is easier to learn than many other forms of dance. The basic footwork is a fairly simple walking motion, pausing every fourth beat, and there are some six basic steps you can follow to make sure you’re on the right tracks.
1 Relax
To dance Cuban Salsa well it is important not to rush, but to relax into the steps. Movements should be precise and deliberate in addition to being flowing and smooth.
2 Walk with purpose
Salsa dancing involves a continual circular motion. Couples walk around each other with an imaginary axis between them. This makes turns look smooth and effortless. Walking gives time to untangle your arms after each turn.
3 Have confidence in your lead
The leader (usually the man) should have constant tension in his arms, while his hands guide his Salsa dancing partner around the floor. There is no need to clamp onto each other’s hands, only to use the right amount of tension to provide a leading signal.
4 Be flexible when following
In order to follow well, ladies should try to match the tension of their partner. The exception to this is when arms need to be relaxed and flexible to complete arm-twisting Salsa moves without injury!
5 Keep balanced when you spin
The key to all the spectacular spins in Salsa is not to lose your balance. One way to do it is by spotting while you spin – focusing on one spot at each turn – an age-old dance technique.
6 Use your body
In Salsa dancing, ladies should make use of their body and be sensual, playful and creative. This can involve some creative arm movements, going with what feels right and basically showing off a bit. Enjoy!
Emma Lelliott
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-stepbystep-guide-to-cuban-salsa-285297.html
