Mambo Styling Group Class

Understanding the different group classes

• This class is designed to appeal to the beginner and intermediate alike.
• Our beginner classes trend towards more foundation information
• Our intermediate classes trend towards challenging the student
• Our styling classes focus more on an artistic aspect of the dance
• Our Series classes build towards the same goal from week to week.
• Students should approach a group class setting at Social Graces with the idea that they will gain something rather than everything.  Every student will take something different as everyone as different tastes and goals.

Cost

Drop in fee is $15 and active students can attend this group class for free.

Dress code

We do not have a dress code, but we encourage you to dress for comfort.

Singles and couples welcome

You do not need a partner to attend any class at Social Graces.

History

Mambo developed from the Cuban dance Danzon, and was greatly influenced by Cuban Haitians and American Jazz.  Perez Prado is credited with introducing Mambo at a Havana nightclub in 1943.  Other Latin musicians made significant contributions to Mambo’s growth and development, including Tito Rodriquez, Tito Puente and Xavier Cugat.

Around 1947, Mambo arrived in New York.  Quickly becoming all the rage, Mambo was taught at dance schools, resorts and nightclubs, reaching its height of popularity by the mid-1950s.  The fad waned with the birth of Cha Cha, a dance developed from Mambo.  The Mambo has regained its popularity, due in large part to a New York dancer named Eddie Torres, as well as popular Mambo songs and movies.

Dance Characteristics

Mambo is a fast and spicy dance characterized by strong Cuban Motion, staccato movement and expression of rhythm through the body.  The dancer holds on count “1” and breaks on count “2”.  Mambo also features exciting swivels and spins.