Salsa LA vs. Cuban Salsa
Understanding the key differences between LA Style and Cuban Salsa
LA Style
The Competition Champion
Experience the dynamic LA Style salsa performance showcasing its signature moves and competitive edge.
Competition Excellence
Dominates the competitive salsa scene with its impressive choreography and technical precision. LA Style dancers excel in showcasing complex combinations and dramatic lifts.
Dance Structure
Characterized by its slot-based dancing style, where partners move in a straight line. The On1 timing provides a strong foundation for executing intricate turn patterns and combinations.
Key Features
- • Competition-ready choreography
- • Technical precision and control
- • Dynamic turn patterns
- • Fusion of ballroom and street styles
Evolution
Emerging from the vibrant dance scene of Los Angeles, this style has evolved to become a dominant force in international salsa competitions, blending Hollywood flair with technical excellence.
Musical Style
Thrives on contemporary salsa music with clear, strong beats that support its dynamic choreography and allow for precise execution of complex patterns.
Notable Performers
- Luis Vazquez - World Salsa Champion
- Melissa Fernandez - LA Style Specialist
- Junior & Emily - Dynamic Duo
- Super Mario - Technical Master
Cuban Salsa
The Original Style
Watch a classic Cuban Salsa performance demonstrating the essence of Casino style dancing.
Social Focus
Emphasizes social dancing and group interaction. Cuban Salsa is known for its circular movements, body isolations, and the popular Rueda de Casino group dance.
Timing & Structure
Danced "On1" or "On3" - with a strong emphasis on the downbeat. Features circular patterns and a more relaxed, social dance feel. Also known as "Casino Style".
Style Characteristics
- • Circular movements
- • Body isolations
- • Rueda de Casino
- • Influenced by Son and Rumba
History
Cuban Salsa, also known as Casino, developed in Cuba in the 1950s. It is deeply rooted in traditional Cuban music and dance forms like Son, Rumba, and Cha-cha-cha.
Music
Cuban Salsa is danced to traditional Cuban music with a strong emphasis on the clave rhythm, allowing for intricate body movements and musical interpretation.
Notable Performers
- Maykel Fonts - Cuban Style Innovator
- Yanek Revilla - Rueda Master
- Alien Ramirez - Casino Expert
- Yamulee - Cuban Dance Company
Which Style Should You Choose?
Both LA and Cuban styles offer unique experiences. If you love showmanship, sharp lines, and dramatic moves, LA Style may be for you. If you prefer social dancing, group interaction, and traditional Cuban music, Cuban Salsa is a great fit. Try both and see which resonates with your personality and goals!
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