The beguine is a dance with roots in the West Indies. It is a dance that is similar to the rumba, but is not one that is as well known. Would you like to dance the beguine? Read this elearn how.
Instructions
1. Read "These Vintage Years" which describes the beguine as a "rhumba-like dance-step from the islands of St. Lucia and Martinique [which was] introduced to American dance-floors in the 1920's."
2. Play music that's 4/4 time. Good examples are the Bolero and "Begin the Beguine" which was written by Cole Porter. Get familiar with the rhythm.
3. Take the first step between beats one and two. The rhythm will be slow, fast, fast and resemble a waltz. Your partner will do the same.
4. Move slowly and sensuously, stepping smoothly with bent legs, so that the hips roll as you move. The movements of the beguine should, as the Wise Geek described the dance, "evoke sensuality."
5. Start dancing simply at first, with little embellishment. As the dance progresses, add turns, fancy steps, and more elaborate movements. Remember to roll your hips all the while. The dance is supposed to evoke sensuality throughout.
6. Go to YouTube and watch Duchess Beguine, where a single woman dances the beguine, then compare it to Eleanor Powell & Fred Astaire. Observe the movement of the dancer's hips, which move in a sensuous fashion even as her steps become more and more complicated.
