International CHA CHA

An exciting, syncopated Latin dance which originated in the 1950s as a slowed-down Mambo. The Cha Cha gets its name and character from its distinct repetitive foot rhythm. It’s fun, energetic, sexy and flirtatious, and is easily distinguished from other dances by its addictive “Step, Step, Cha Cha Cha” timing.

Musical Information

Tempo: 30-32 measures per min / 120-128 beats per min
Timing: 4/4
Rhythm: 2, 3, 4&1 (chacha-cha), 2, 3, 4&1 (accent on count 1)

Syllabus

Newcomer

  • Basic Cha Cha Chasse

  • New Yorker

  • Spot Turns (Left and Right)

  • Shoulder to Shoulder

  • Hand to Hand

  • Three Cha Chas Forward

  • Side Steps

  • There and Back

  • Time Steps


Bronze

  • Fan

  • Alemana

  • Hockey Stick

  • Natural Top

  • Natural Opening Out

  • Closed Hip Twist

Silver

  • Open Hip Twist

  • Reverse Top

  • Opening Out from Reverse Top

  • Aida

  • Spiral Turns

  • Cross Basic

  • Cuban Breaks

  • Chase

Gold

  • Advanced Hip Twist

  • Hip Twist Spiral

  • Turkish Towel

  • Sweetheart

  • Follow My Leader

  • Foot Changes