The musical genre of Reggaeton, like the dance, is a fusion of different genres. Reggaeton originated in Puerto Rico, but its roots go back through Panama to Jamaica, where Reggae and Dancehall influences come from, and to New York, where Hip Hop are taken from.
In the early days, when people danced to Reggaeton, for example, at parties, the movement was very hip- and torso-based and was often danced with a partner. As music became more commercialised, so did the dance, and nowadays in dance schools it is known as a solo street dance.
Reggaeton has no designated movements and therefore no precise rules. This allows dancers to bring out the diversity of their own backgrounds when dancing. In Puerto Rico, dancers are heavily influenced by Hip Hop, combining a versatile use of the hips and torso in their dance. Another characteristic feature of the genre is the contrasts of movement, combining strong and fast accents with a more relaxed and fluid movement.
The Cuban equivalent of Reggaeton is known as Cubato, but many also call it Reggaeton Cubano. There are subgenres of this music, one of which is Reparto. It was born in the slums and is particularly popular with the lower classes and young people.
Reparto is an upbeat style of music with a rhythm based on the clave rhythm of the Cuban Rumba, and many of the steps are also based on this rhythm. Reparto is a movement that is slowly gaining in popularity and has started to spread to other countries. Especially in Peru, its popularity is currently increasing.
12:00–13:15 Reggaeton (beginners)
13:30–14:45 Reparto (open level)
Place: Flama Rauhankatu (Rauhankatu 15, Turku)
Price: 19 €/75 min workshop
Alex Rodriguez is a Cuban street dancer who dances with the Cuban Loyal Dance Company. LDC is a dance company sponsored by Planet Records, which performs in music videos for local artists and at various club nights.
In addition to the LDC, Alex occasionally teaches at dance schools around Havana. The most famous dance school where Alex has taught is called La Casa del Son. Numerous Finns have also come there to learn.
Alex has gained experience in dancing and teaching several different dance styles. He is most passionate about street dance, but he also dances Cuban salsa and kizomba.
As a teacher, Alex is thorough and patient and maintains a relaxed atmosphere in his classes. His energy is quickly transmitted to his students, and there is no shortage of laughter or fun.
More information about the workshops: info@flama.fi
Does the idea of stepping onto the stage excite you? Flama’s spring season culminates on Wednesday 27.5. at the Flama Spring Show held at the Linnateatteri. Once again, an amazing group of Flama dancers will take the stage and you could be one of them!
New courses are starting at Flamassa in the spring! There are many different types of dance, body maintenance, and performance courses to choose from. Which one would be right for you?
