Newcomer lesson on Cha cha and Waltz

Cha  cha

• On 'cha cha cha', stay on toes for first two cha's, leg doesn't straighten until last cha.
• Afro-cuban dances break on two so that the hip action is emphasized on one.
• On steps that break back, always point the front toe.
• On basic in place, try to open as big a gap as possible between the front knee and the back leg, while keeping feet turned out. In order to do this, it will be necessary to extend with the hips, enhancing the latin action.

Waltz

• On each pattern, first step is driving step, third step is collection
• Sway is used on second step to step much longer than one could stepping with flat hips. It is also used to slow down sideways momentum and to bring feet together.