Extra Spicy Salsa

Free night of Salsa lessons being provided by campus organization

Extra Spicy Salsa!Mujeres Triunfando, a new registered student organization (RSO) on campus, is offering an evening of free Salsa dancing lessons.

Although “Mujeres Triunfando” translates to “women prevailing,” Lissette Isabel, president of the RSO, explains that the group is “open to anyone that would like to promote women empowerment and Latin awareness.”

Salsa dancing has been described as a dance of intimate passion and addiction. The typical music for Salsa is up-tempo Latin music. Salsa music typically ranges from 180 to 210 beats per minute; this is about twice the tempo of the Rumba.

Cuba is credited for creating the Salsa style of dance; however, New York created the term “Salsa”. Salsa is a combination of many Latin and Afro-Caribbean dances.

“Our interest in Salsa comes from our cultural background, because we are a Latin-based multicultural organization and all of our events and activities are encouraging the awareness of the Hispanic culture,” said Isabel.

To get into the beginning position, stand facing your partner. The leader (typically the male) places his right hand on his partner’s waist. Next, he extends his left arm diagonally to chest height with his elbow bent at a right angle and his palm raised. The female partner grasps her partner’s right hand in a loose grip. Last, she places her hand on the male’s shoulder.

An important tip for beginning Salsa dancers is to take small steps. As the music gets faster, it’s important to keep your feet less than one foot apart. Remember to keep soft knees; this helps accentuate hip movement.

As a tip for beginners, Isabel said, “Learn how to listen to the music and follow the beat of the drums, and also know that is all in the hips!”

Tonight from 6 to 7 p.m., Mujeres Triunfando will be having an informational meeting for those interested in joining or just learning more about their organization. The meeting will take place in FLITE 135.

Later this evening, the ladies of Mujeres Triunfando will be hosting a Salsa night. They will be teaching styles such as the Bachata, Salsa and Cha Cha. This free event will take place from 7:30 to 9 in the Rankin Student Center Dome Room.

For more information, contact Lissette Isabel, president of Mujeres Triunfando, at mtwomen@nullhotmail.com.