Dance 149 - Salsa Dance I

SALSA DANCE I

Spring
2020
01
2.00
Miguel Castillo Le Maitre
W 07:00-09:30
Smith College
30469-S20
BERENS 3
mcastillolemaitre@smith.edu
This course introduces the students to the New York mambo style of salsa (beginner-level). It also covers elements of the Cuban style of salsa, representative of an Afro-Caribbean dance aesthetic. Students master different variations of the salsa basic step, as well as turns, connecting steps and arm work. They learn how to dance in couples and also in larger groups known as ruedas (wheels). Toward the end of the semester, students are able to use their salsa vocabulary as basis for improvising and choreographing salsa combinations. We approach salsa as a social dance form expressive of Caribbean culture and Latino culture in the United States. Most of the work takes place in the studio but, in addition to learning the dance, students read selected articles and watch documentaries about the dance genre. Class discussions and brief writing assignments serve as an opportunity to reflect on salsa’s history and culture.
Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.