Introduction to International Latin

Join us Sunday mornings for a fun and friendly introduction to International Latin, the dynamic, high-energy side of Ballroom Latin dancing. This rotating series introduces the sharp, expressive technique behind International Latin, taught across Cha Cha, Samba and Jive. It’s a great class for dancers ready to explore the faster, flashier Latin style for social or performance purposes.

Schedule

Sundays – Community Classes

• 11:00am – Ballroom Latin Fundamentals (American Rhythm)
• 12:00pm – Introduction to International Latin

Class Description

Level 2: Introduction to International Latin – Sundays 12:00pm

Get an introduction to International Latin technique through three dynamic dances: Cha Cha, Samba and Jive. Each month focuses on one dance, developing the sharp leg action, driving footwork and expressive body movement that give International Latin its power and flash, from the crisp attack of Cha Cha to the bouncing travel of Samba and the fast kicks and flicks of Jive.

No partner or experience needed. 

> New to Ballroom or Latin?
Recommended to start with our Ballroom Latin Fundamentals class at 11:00am, which covers the American Rhythm dances and builds the Cuban motion and timing that prepare you for International Latin.

Pricing

• Community Class Rate: $15

Our Community Classes aim to provide more affordable options to our students and the general community at large.

Upcoming Schedule

• Aug: Cha Cha
• Sep: Samba
• Oct: Jive
• Nov: Cha Cha
• Dec: Samba

Dance Styles – International Latin

Cha Cha

International Cha Cha shares the triple step and playful rhythm you meet in the American Rhythm version, but dances it with straighter legs and a sharper, crisper attack that defines the International style. It’s the bridge into this level, the familiar dance where you first feel the difference International technique makes before carrying it into Samba and Jive.

Samba

Samba is the traveling party dance of International Latin, moving around the floor with a distinctive bounce that comes from a springy, rhythmic action in the legs and body. It’s lively and celebratory, danced to an infectious Brazilian beat, and it teaches you to keep that bounce alive while covering ground, a different challenge from the spot dances.

Jive

Jive is the fastest dance in International Latin, a high-energy cousin of swing built on quick triple steps, kicks and flicks. It demands stamina and bounce, and it’s the clearest test of whether your timing holds up at speed. It’s the dance that always brings the energy, and the exciting payoff once the footwork is in place.

Where International Latin Fits in Ballroom

International Latin is the competition-style branch of the rhythmic side of ballroom, known for its sharp lines, powerful leg action and dramatic expression. It sits alongside the smooth, traveling styles like Standard and American Smooth, but where those glide around the floor in a closed hold, International Latin stays largely in place and drives into the floor with sharp, expressive movement. Where the American Rhythm dances in our fundamentals class emphasize a softer, more social Cuban motion, International Latin takes those same rhythmic roots and sharpens them, straighter legs, stronger attack, and a bigger, more performance-driven look.