introduction to merengue - icbdaicbda.com/tech-manual/full_mg.pdfmerengue mg - intro - 1...

Merengue

MG - Intro - 1

Introduction to Merengue GENERAL Of all the Latin American dances to come from the Caribbean the Merengue is, by far, the easiest to execute. Although there are several varieties of the dance, the Dominican Merengue is probably the most popular. The dance may be done in a light breezy manner or in a suave, sophisticated style. Whichever mood you prefer, you will find it easy to learn the Dominican Merengue. BASIC RHYTHM The music of the Merengue is in 2/4 time. The basic rhythm requires two measures of music, the accent occurring on the first beat. In counting the steps to music, however, we are going to use 4/4 rhythm. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DANCE The Merengue de Frac or Merengue, as it is most often shortened to, was originally written in 2/4 time. It is now usually played in "cut" time. It is similar to a march, except that every other measure or bar is syncopated. The Merengue as it is played most often today consists of one measure identical with samba music followed by a measure similar to a fast march. The first beat of each syncopated measure is strongly accented and there is a secondary accent on the first beat of the next measure. Merengue is danced to a two-count, quick-quick rhythm. The characteristic feature of Merengue is its Side Basic or Chassé. A controlled "Cuban Motion" is used with small steps. The hip movement is more subtle than in other Latin dances. There is little or no movement of the upper body. Some dancers add a deep flexing of the man's right knee (woman's left) and a slight side ward dip of the man's left shoulder (woman's right) on the strong first beat of each syncopated measure (counts 1 and 5). Merengue is a very easy dance to learn. Many of its figures are quite simple. It may be done in a light and casual manner or with sophistication. The "fun" dance and its fascinating music belong on every dance program.

Merengue

MG - Intro - 2

Merengue Table of Contents

MG - TOC - 1

S#8 2004

Introduction ……………………………………………..… MG-Int-1

5th Position Break ……………………………………………..… MG-06

Advanced Side Break ……………………………………………..… MG-11

Advanced Stair Step ……………………………………………..… MG-15

Alternate Wrap ……………………………………………..… MG-21

Arm Slide ……………………………………………..… MG-24

Back Break ……………………………………………..… MG-06

Back Spot Turn (Natural Top) ……………………………………………..… MG-09

Chassé 4 ……………………………………………..… MG-03

Circle Walk Right ……………………………………………..… MG-19

Conga Break ……………………………………………..… MG-26

Conga Walks ……………………………………………..… MG-08

Forward and Back Conga ……………………………………………..… MG-16

Forward Basic ……………………………………………..… MG-04

Forward Spot Turn ……………………………………………..… MG-18

Left Turning Rock ……………………………………………..… MG-05

Mark Time ……………………………………………..… MG-23

Merengue Glide ……………………………………………..… MG-22

Natural Top (Back Spot Turn) ……………………………………………..… MG-09

Open Break ……………………………………………..… MG-17

Promenade Swivels ……………………………………………..… MG-07

Separation ……………………………………………..… MG-01

Side Basic ……………………………………………..… MG-12

Side Break ……………………………………………..… MG-02

Side Separation ……………………………………………..… MG-13

Stair Step (Simple) ……………………………………………..… MG-14

Swivel Point Freeze ……………………………………………..… MG-10

Syncopated Promenade Walks ……………………………………………..… MG-08

Tunnel (& 4 steps of Separation) ……………………………………………..… MG-25

Wrap ……………………………………………..… MG-20

Yale Break ……………………………………………..… MG-11

Merengue Table of Contents

MG - TOC - 2

S#8 2004

Merengue

MG – Fig 11 - 29

Advanced Side Break (Yale Break) 3 measures- 1234 1234 1234 (after back break) Level of Difficulty 8

MAN CP fcg WALL - cl L to R, sd R, rec L, cl R to L; sd L, rec R, cl L to R, sd R; rec L, cl R to L, bk L, rec R;

LADY CP fcg COH - sd R, bk L, rec R, sd L; bk R, rec L, sd R, bk L; rec R, sd L, rk bk R, rec L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1 WALL cl L to

R

nil BF Merengue Cuban

thru-out

ld lady to stp sd & slt fwd

2 2 - rk sd R - IE of WF

to WF

- rel right hnd, stp sd R & ld lady to Left sd & LOP

3

3

-

rec L

-

“

-

rec to CP

4

4

-

cl R to L

-

BF

-

cl R to L in momentary CP

5

1

-

sd L

-

IE of WF

to WF

-

modified 1/2 OP

6 2 - rec R - “ - rec R to momentary CP

7

3

-

cl L to R

-

“

-

ld lady to stp sd & slt fwd

8

4

-

sd R

-

“

-

rel right hnd, stp sd R ld lady to Left sd to LOP

9

1

-

rec L

-

“

-

rec to CP

10

2

-

cl R to L

-

“

-

rel right hnd, stp sd R & ld lady to Left sd & LOP

11

3

-

bk L T to H

1/8 LF

BF

-

comm LF trn stp bk L in V bk to bk pos (like a Back Break)

12

4

-

rec R

1/8 RF

-

-

rec to CP

Advanced Side Break (Yale Break) (continued) Merengue

MG – Fig 11 - 30

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 1 COH sd R

BF Merengue Cuban thru-out

comm trn with a sml stp on R

2

2

RLOD

sd & bk

L

1/4 LF ovr 2 stps

-

-

comp trn and end in LOP fcg RLOD

3

3

-

rec R

1\4 RF

-

-

rec to CP

4

4

COH

sd L

1\4 RF

-

-

cont RF trn stp sd in momentary CP

5

1

-

bk R T to H

1\4 RF

-

-

cont RF trn stp bk R to face LOD (back break)

6

2

LOD

rec to L

1\4 LF

-

-

rec to CP

7

3

COH

sd R

-

-

comm trn with a sml stp on R

8

4

RLOD

bk L

-

-

comp trn end in LOP

9

1

WALL

rec R

-

-

rec to CP

10

2

RLOD

sd L

-

-

cont RF trn stp sd in momentary CP

11

3

COH

rk bk R

-

-

cont RF trn stp bk R to LOD (Like a back break)

12

4

LOD

rec L

-

-

rec to CP

NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION

MAN

Start in a loose Closed Dance Position facing the wall. [Step 1.] After a lead in

figure e.g.; (back break) close the left foot to the right foot leading the lady into a left

turn with a slight pressure and with the right hand on the lady’s left shoulder and

shaping slightly to the left. [Step 2.] Release the right hand and lower the joined

lead hands to waist level, stepping side on the right foot (a rock step). [Step 3.]

Step side on the left foot (a recover step) leading the lady to recover on her right foot

and start a right turn. [Step 4.] Close the right foot to the left foot as you lead

the lady to continue a right turn to end in a momentary closed position. [Step 5.]

Step side on the left foot (a rock step) releasing the lead hands and allowing the lady

to continue a right turn to end on the man’s right side in a Half Open Position.

[Step 6.] Step side on the right foot (a recover step) leading the lady to recover on

the left foot, turning left to a momentary Closed Position. [Step 7.] Repeat step


MG – Fig 11 - 31

one.

[Step 8.] Repeat step two. [Step 9.] Repeat step three (a recover step). [Step

10.] Repeat step four. [Step 11.] Start a swivel to the right, stepping back on

the left foot into a slight Back To Back “V” Position (back break). [Step 12.] Step

forward a small step on the right foot (a recover step).

LADY

Start in a loose Closed Dance Position facing the center of the hall. [Step 1.]

Release the left hand, and step to the side a small step on the right foot starting a

left turn. [Step 2.] Continue to turn left, stepping back on the left foot into a Left

Open Position facing the Reverse Line of Dance. [Step 3.] Step forward on the

right foot (recover forward) turning to the right to face the partner. [Step 4.] Step

to the side on the left foot starting to make a right turn. [Step 5.] Continue to

turn right, stepping back on the right foot and facing line of dance. [Step 6.]

Step forward on the left foot turning to the right to face the partner, and joining the

lead hands. [Step 7.] Repeat step one. [Step 8.] Repeat step two. [Step 9.]

Repeat step 3 (a recover step). [Step 10.] Repeat step 4. [Step 11.] Repeat

step 5. [Step 12.] Repeat step 6.

GENERAL NOTES

Figure may be done from any facing position.

OPTION: Step four - measure one, lady may close left foot to the right foot swiveling

right face to a Shadow or a Cuddle Position.

REMEMBER! Delaying transfer of full weight till end of beat will allow a gentle

swinging of the hips which is the Cuban action.

When lowering to whole foot, keep weight slightly forward with just a little height on

the heel.


MG – Fig 11 - 32

Merengue

MG - Fig 15 - 43

Advanced Stair Step

1 measure -1234 Level of Difficulty 3

MAN CP fcg LOD - fwd L, cl R to L, sd L comm RF trn, cl R to L comp 1/8 RF trn fcg DLW; fwd L comm a LF trn, cl R to L comp a 1/8 LF trn fcg LOD;

LADY CP fcg RLOD - bk R, cl L to R, sd R comm a RF trn, cl L to R comp 1/8 RF trn fcg DLW; bk R comm a LF trn, cl L to R comp a 1/8 LF trn fcg RLOD;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

LOD

fwd L

nil

B of F to WF

Cuban

bent knee to strt leg - delayed wgt chg

2

2

-

cl R to L

-

B of ft to H

"

"

3

3

-

sd L

IE B of ft to WF

"

"

4

4

DLW

cl R to L

1/8 RF

B of ft to H

"

"

5

1

DLW

fwd L

B of ft to WF

"

"

6

2

DLC

cl R to L

1/8 LF

B of ft to H

"

"

7

3

DLC

sd L

nil

IE B of ft to WF

"

"

8

4

LOD

cl R to L

-

B of ft to H

"

"

Advanced Stair Step (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 15 - 44

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

bk R

nil

BH

Cuban

bent knee to strt leg - delayed wgt chg

2

2

-

cl L to R

-

BH

"

"

3

3

-

sd R

IE B of ft to WF

"

"

4

4

-

cl L to R

1/8 RF

BH

"

"

5

1

-

bk R

BH

"

"

6

2

-

cl L to R

1/8LF

BH

"

"

7

3

-

sd R

-

IE B of ft to WF

"

"

8

4

-

cl L to R

-

BH

"

"


MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD [Step 1.] Step forward with a slightly bent knee on the left foot on ball of foot lowering to whole foot and taking full weight at end of beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 2.] With a slightly bent knee close the right foot, ball to heel to the left foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 3.] Commence a right turn, with a slightly bent knee step side on the left foot, inside edge of ball of foot to whole foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 4.] With a slightly bent knee close the right foot ball to heel to the left foot completing a !/8 right turn to face DLW, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 5.] With a slightly bent knee step forward on the left foot commencing a left turn on the ball of foot lowering to the whole foot taking full weight at end of beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 6.] With a slightly bent knee close the right foot ball to heel to the left foot completing a 1/8 left turn to face LOD, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 7.] With a slightly bent knee step side right foot inside edge of ball of foot to whole foot taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 8.] With a slightly bent knee close the right foot ball to heel to the left foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back.


MG - Fig 15 - 45

LADY Start in Closed Position facing COH. [Step 1.] Step back on the right foot on the ball to the heel taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 2.] Step back on the left foot on the ball to the heel taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) closing the left foot to the right foot straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 3.] Commence a right turn with a slightly bent knee step side on the right foot inside edge of ball of foot to whole foot taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 4.] With a slightly bent knee close the left foot ball to heel to the right foot completing a!/8 right turn to face DRC, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 5.] With a slightly bent knee step forward on the right foot commencing a left turn on the ball of foot lowering to the whole foot taking full weight at end of beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 6.] With a slightly bent knee close the right foot ball to heel to the left foot completing a 1/8 left turn to face LOD, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 7.] With a slightly bent knee step side right foot inside edge of ball of foot to whole foot taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back. [Step 8.] With a slightly bent knee close the right foot ball to heel to the left foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat (delayed weight change) straightening leg with hip rotated back.

GENERAL NOTES

Figure may start facing in any direction.


MG - Fig 15 - 46

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Merengue

MG Fig 21 - 61

Alternate Wrap

2 measures - 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 6

MAN Wrap Pos lady on R sd fcg LOD - (maint jnd L-R hndhld thruout) Cl L to R, rel jnd R-L hnds & stp sd R ckng with R arm ext out & lady in L Wrap Pos, rec L trng LF unwrapping lady & comm wrpng into lady=s R arm, comp a 1/2 trn fcg RLOD in Wrap Pos in lady=s R arm stp sd R ckng with R arm ext out; rec L trng LF unwrapping to wrap lady, comp a 1/2 trn to fc LOD wrpng lady in a L Wrap Pos stp sd R ckng with R arm ext out, rec L trng lady LF, cont ldng lady to CP cl L to R fcg LOD;

LADY Wrap Pos on man=s R sd fcg LOD - (maint jnd R-L hndhld thruout) XRIFL, rel jnd L-R hnds & stp sd L ckng with L arm ext out in L Wrap Pos, rec R trng LF unwrapping to wrap man, comp a 1/2 trn to fc RLOD wrpng man in R arm in a R Wrap Pos & stp sd L ckng with R arm ext out; rec R trng LF unwrapping man, comp a 1/2 trn to fc LOD wrpng into man’s L arm in a L Wrap Pos stp sd L ckng with R arm ext out, comm a L trn stp fwd R, cont trng L cl L to R in CP;

MAN

Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

LOD

cl L in pl to R

nil

BF mostly F

(maint L-R hndhld thruout) lead lady to pass in frnt

2

2

-

sd R

-

sd ck

rel jnd R-L hnds trng lady to L Wrap Pos - ext R arm out to sd at shldr level

3

3

rec inplc

L

trng unwrap lady & comm to wrap into lady=s R arm

4

4

LOD to

RLOD

sd R

1/2 LF over 2

steps

sd ck

comp trn man in frnt in wrap pos on lady=s R sd ext R arm out to sd at shldr level

5

1

rec in pl

L

unwrap & comm to wrap lady

6

2

RLOD to LOD

sd R

1/2 RF over 2

steps

sd ck

comp trn with lady in L Wrap Pos - R arm ext out to sd at shldr level

7

3

-

rec in pl

L nil

comm trng lady LF

8

4

-

cl R to L

-

end in CP fcg LOD

Alternate Wrap (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 21 - 62

LADY

Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

LOD

XRIFL

nil

BF mostly F

(maint jnd R-L hndhld thruout) - remain in frnt of man

2

2

-

sd L

-

"

ck sd

rel jnd L-R hnds mv to L Wrap Pos - ext L arm out to sd at shldr level

3

3

rec R inplc

"

unwrap & comm to wrap man in R arm

4

4

LOD to

RLOD sd L

1/2 LF over 2

steps

" ck sd

comp trn with man in frnt in R Wrap Pos - ext L arm out to sd at shldr level

5

5

rec R inplc

"

unwrap man & comm to wrap into mans L arm

6

6

RLOD to LOD

sd L

1/2 RF over 2

steps

" ck sd

comp trn end in L Wrap Pos - L arm ext out to sd at shldr level

7

7

fwd R

"

trng L unwrap

8

8

LOD to

RLOD

fwd L

1/2 LF over 2

steps " end in CP fcg RLOD


MAN Start in right wrap position lady in front of and slightly to right side facing LOD (Maintain joined left/right hands throughout) [Step 1.] Release right hand close left foot to right foot with joined left/right hands lead lady to move across and side. [Step 2.] Step side on the right foot checking extending right arm out to side shoulder level. [Step 3.] Recover on the left foot in place turning left starting to unwrap lady left and wrap into the lady=s right arm. Draw the left hand in toward body when turning. [Step 4.] Complete a 1/2 left turn to right wrap position in lady=s right arm (man in wrap position on lady=s right side) stepping side on the right foot checking to face RLOD with right arm extended out to the side at shoulder level. [Step 5.] Recover on the left foot starting a right turn unwrapping and starting to turn lady right and wrap into left arm. Draw the left hand in toward body when turning. [ Step 6.] Complete a 1/2 right turn to face LOD stepping side on the right foot checking with right arm extended out to the side at shoulder level and lady on the left side in left wrap position. [Step 7.] Recover on the left foot leading lady to turn left. [Step 8.] Continuing turning the lady, close the right foot to the left foot to end in Closed Position facing LOD.


MG Fig 21 - 63

LADY Start in right wrap position in front of and slightly to mans right side. (Maintain joined left/right hands throughout) [Step 1.] Cross right foot over the left foot passing in front of man. [Step 2.] Release joined right/left hands and step side on the left foot checking in left wrap position extending the left arm out to the side at shoulder level. [Step 3.] Recover on the right foot turning left starting to unwrap and wrap man into the right arm. Draw the left hand in toward body. [Step 4.] Complete a 1/2 left turn stepping side on the left foot checking to face RLOD with the man wrapped in the right arm in right wrap position. Extend left arm out to the side at shoulder level. [Step 5.] Recover on the right foot turning right unwrapping man and starting to rewrap into mans left arm drawing the left hand in toward the body. [Step 6.] Complete a 1/2 right turn to face LOD in left wrap position stepping side on the left foot checking with left arm extended out to the side at shoulder level. [Step 7.] Step forward on the right foot starting a left turn drawing the left hand toward the body. [Step 8.] Continuing turning step forward on left foot to Closed Position facing RLOD.

GENERAL NOTES

Man’s left and lady’s right hands remain joined throughout.


MG - Fig 21 - 64

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Merengue

MG - Fig 24 - 69

Arm Slide

4 measures - 1234 1234 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 3

MAN CP fcg WALL - rel both hnds stpng apt to plc & maint hnds palms up undr lady=s arms with the hnds sldg undr lady=s arms as sml bk steps are used for the separation to a jnd hnds pos on stp 8 - bk L,R,L,R; L,R,L,R jn hnds; rel jnd hnds taking sml steps fwd L,R,L,R; L,R,L,R sldg hnds undr lady’s arms fwd to CP on stp 16;

LADY CP fcg COH - rel both hnds stpng apt to plc & maint hnds palms down on top of man=s arm with light pressure sldg the hnds down the man=s arms as sml bk steps are used for the separation R,L,R,L; R,L,R,L jn hnds on step 8; rel jnd hnds taking sml steps fwd R,L,R,L; R,L,R,L sldng hnds on top of man’s arms to CP on stp 16;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 1

WALL

bk L sml stp

nil

BF

Cuban Motion

2

2

-

bk R sml stp

-

-

-

3

3

-

bk L sml stp

-

-

4

4

-

bk R sml stp

-

-

-

5

1

-

bk L sml stp

-

-

-

6

2

-

bk R sml stp

-

-

-

7

3

-

bk L sml stp

-

-

-

bkg apt rel both hnds from lady & plc undr lady=s arms with palms up. maint both hnds in contact with lady=s undr arms with slt pressure as lady=s hnds sldg down arms

8

4

-

bk R sml stp

-

-

-

full arm ext with four hnds jnd

9

1

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

10

2

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

11

3

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

12

4

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

13

1

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

14

2

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

15

3

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

16

4

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

rel hnds moving together sldg hnds undr lady=s arms with slt pressure to end in CP

Arm Slide (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 24 - 70

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 1

COH

bk R sml stp

nil

BF

Cuban Motion

2

2

-

bk L sml stp

-

-

-

3

3

-

bk R sml stp

-

-

-

4

4

-

bk L sml stp

-

-

-

5

1

-

bk R sml stp

-

-

-

6

2

-

bk L sml stp

-

-

-

7

3

-

bk R sml stp

-

-

-

bkg apt rel both hnds from man & plc on top of man=s arms with palms down using slt pressure

8

4

-

bk L sml stp

-

-

-

full arm ext with four hnds jnd

9

1

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

10

2

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

11

3

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

12

4

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

13

1

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

14

2

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

15

3

-

fwd R sml stp

-

-

-

16

4

-

fwd L sml stp

-

-

-

rel hnds moving together sldg hnds on top of man=s arms using slt pressure to end in CP


MAN Start in Closed Position facing the WALL. (Use small steps and Cuban motion throughout the figure.) [Step 1.] Release hands and step back a small step on the left foot placing the hands palms up under lady’s arms maintaining slight pressure, right hand to left underarm and left hand to right underarm. Maintain this connection throughout the separation to a joined hands position on step 8. [Step 2.] Step back with a small step on the right foot. [Step 3.] Step back with a small step on the left foot. [Step 4.] Step back with a small step on the right foot. [Step 5.] Step back with a small step on the left foot. [Step 6.] Step back with a small step on the right foot. [Step 7.] Step back with a small step on the left foot. [Step 8.] Step back with a small step on the right foot to arms length joining both hands. [Step 9.] Release joined hands and step forward with a small step on the left foot towards the lady sliding hands up the under arms of the lady. [Step 10.] Step forward with a small step on the right foot. [Step 11.] Step forward with a small step on the left foot. [Step 12.] Step forward with a small step on the right foot. [Step 13.] Step forward with a small step on the left foot. [Step 14.] Step forward with a small step on the right foot. [Step 15.] Step forward with a small step on the left foot. [Step 16.]


MG - Fig 24 - 71

Step forward with a small step on the right foot to Closed Position.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing COH. (Use small steps and Cuban motion throughout the figure.) [Step 1.] Release hands and step back a small step on the right foot placing the hands, palms down on the top of man’s upper arms applying a slight pressure right hand to man’s left arm and left hand to man’s right arm. Maintain this connection throughout the separation to a joined hands position on step 8. [Step 2.] Step back with a small step on the left foot. [Step 3.] Step back with a small step on the right foot. [Step 4.] Step back with a small step on the left foot. [Step 5.] Step back with a small step on the right foot. [Step 6.] Step back with a small step on the left foot. [Step 7.] Step back with a small step on the right foot. [Step 8.] Step back with a small step on the left foot to arms length joining both hands. [Step 9.] Release joined hands and step forward with a small step on the right foot moving toward the man sliding hands up with sight pressure applied on top of man’s arms. [Step 10.] Step forward with a small step on the left foot. [Step 11.] Step forward with a small step on the right foot. [Step 12.] Step forward with a small step on the left foot. [Step 13.] Step forward with a small step on the right foot. [Step 14.] Step forward with a small step on the left foot. [Step 15.] Step forward with a small step on the right foot. [Step 16.] Step forward with a small step on the left foot to Closed Position.

GENERAL NOTES

Both dancers are moving away from each other and then back together. Small steps must be used. The use of Cuban motion through the figure will make what could be a rather dull figure very enjoyable. It also lends to individual expression which can add to the fun of dancing.. Use foot, leg and hip Technique as described in the Introduction section of the Merengue.


MG - Fig 24 - 72

Merengue

MG - Fig 6 - 15

Back Break (5th Position Break) 1 measure - 1234 Level of Difficulty 5

MAN CP WALL - sd L, trng LF sd R, trng LF bk L, trng RF fwd R;

LADY CP COH - sd R, trng RF sd L, trng RF bk R, trng LF fwd L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

sd L

nil

IE of

WF, WF

Merengue Cuban thru-out

wgt is never fully committed to the left foot.

2

2

-

sd R

slt LF

IE of

WF, WF

-

start trng LF to SCP.

3

3

DLW

bk L

1/8 LF

BF

-

stp bk in falwy pos to SCP.

4

4

WALL

fwd R

1/8 RF

-

-

swvl on right foot to CP.

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

sd R

nil

IE of

WF, WF


wgt is never fully committed to the right foot.

2

2

-

sd L

slight RF

IE of

WF, WF

-

start trng RF to SCP.

3

3

DLC

bk R

1/8 RF

BF

-

stp bk in falwy pos to SCP.

4

4

COH

fwd L

1/8 LF

-

-

swvl on left foot to CP.


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the wall. [Step 1.] Step side onto the inside edge of the whole foot of the left foot. This is a Merengue break step and full weight is not transferred to the left foot. It almost feels like the foot is sore and you do not want to put all your weight on it. [Step 2.] Beginning a turn to the left into Semi-Closed Dance Position, step to the side with the inside edge of the right foot continuing to transfer the weight to the whole foot. [Step 3.] Finish the turn ending in a Semi-Closed Dance Position, and step back on the left foot (ball flat) into a Fallaway. [Step 4.] Step forward a small step on the

Back Break (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 6 - 16

right foot. This step will turn back to the right into a Closed Dance Position. Turning the foot out strongly to the right will aid this turn.

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the center of the hall. [Step 1.] Step to the side onto the inside edge of the whole foot of the right foot. This is a Merengue break step and full weight is not transferred to the right foot. It almost feels like the foot is sore and you do not want to put all your weight on it. [Step 2.] Beginning a turn to the right into A Semi-Closed Dance Position, step to the side with the inside edge of the left foot continuing to transfer the weight to the whole foot. [Step 3.] Finish the turn into A Semi-Closed Dance Position and step back on the right foot (ball flat) into a Fallaway. [Step 4.] Step forward a small step on the left foot. This step will turn back to the left into a Closed Dance Position. Turning the foot out strongly to the left will aid this turn.

GENERAL NOTES The figure may be danced with the feet closing on step two as well. The man's left and lady's right hand may remain held or can be released for some type of arm action at the dancer's prerogative. Hands and arms are an expression of the dancers own impression of most Latin figures.

Merengue

MG - Fig 9 - 21

Back Spot Turn (natural top)

1 measure - 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 6

MAN

CP Wall - sd L, XRIBL, sd L, XRIBL; sd L, XRIBL, sd L, cl R;

LADY

CP COH - XRIFL, sd L, XRIFL, sd L; XRIFL, sd L, XRIFL, cl L;

MAN Step

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 1 WALL sd L 1/4 BF Merengue

Cuban thru-out

staying square to ptnr throughout fig, trn RF, stp sd L

2

2

RLOD

XRIBL

-

-

-

cont RF trn XRIBL, pl T of R near heel of L with T turned out

3

3

COH

sd L

-

-

-

same as step one

4

4

LOD

XRIBL

-

-

-

same as step two

5

1

WALL

sd L

-

-

-

same as step one

6

2

RLOD

XRIBL

-

-

-

same as step two

7

3

COH

sd L

-

-

-

same as step one

8

4

LOD

cl R to L

-

-

-

cont RF trn on L, cl R to L

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH XRIFL

1/4

BF


stp fwd trng RF & XRIFL, remain square to lady throughout fig

2

2

LOD sd & fwd L

-

-

-

cont RF trn, stp sd & fwd L

3

3 WALL

XRIFL

-

-

-

same as step one

4

4 RLOD

sd & fwd L

-

-

-

same as step two

5

1

COH XRIFL

-

-

-

same as step one

6

2

LOD

sd & fwd L

-

-

-

same as step two

7

3

WALL

XRIF of

L

-

-

-

same as step one

Back Spot Turn (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 9 - 22

8

4

RLOD

sd & fwd L

-

-

-

cont trng RF on R ft, stp sd & fwd L almost cl L ft to R

NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the wall. [Step 1.] Staying square to partner, and starting a right turn, step side and forward on the left foot turning one-quarter. [Step 2.] Continue turning to the right, crossing the right foot in back of the left foot, placing the toe of the right foot in back of the left heel with the toe turned out. [Step 3.] Staying square to the partner and starting a right turn, step side and forward on the left foot, turning one-quarter, (same as step one). [Step 4.] Continuing to turn to the right, cross the right foot in back of the left foot, placing the toe of the right foot in back of the left heel with the toe turned out, (same as step two). [Step 5.] Staying square to partner, start a right turn, stepping side and forward on the left foot and turning one-quarter, (same as step one). [Step 6.] Continuing to turn to the right, cross the right foot in back of the left foot, placing the toe of the right foot in back of the left heel with the toe turned out, (same as step two). [Step 7.] Staying square to partner and starting a right turn, step side and forward on the left foot, turning one-quarter, (same as step one). [Step 8.] Continue turning to the right ending in a Closed Position facing the wall, closing the right foot to the left foot.

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the lady and the center of the hall. [Step 1.] Starting a right turn, swivel right face on the left foot, stepping forward on the right foot allowing the right foot to cross over the left foot. [Step 2.] Continue to turn to the right, and step side on the left foot. [Step 3.] Swivel right face on the left foot, stepping forward on the right foot allowing the right foot to cross over the left foot. (Same as step one). [Step 4.] Continue turning right and step side on the left foot, (same as step 2). [Step 5.] Swivel right face on the left foot, stepping forward on the right foot, allowing the right foot to cross over the left foot, (same as step 1) [Step 6.] Continue to turn right and step side on the left foot, (same as step 2). [Step 7.] Swivel right face on the left foot, stepping forward on the right foot allow the right foot to cross over the left foot, (same as step one). [Step 8.] Continue turning to the right ending in a closed position facing the center of the hall. Step to the side on the left foot, almost closing the left foot to the right foot.

GENERAL NOTES

Very little Cuban action is used in the back spot turn. The man may sway left on steps one, three, five, seven and right on steps two, four, six and eight. To do this the man will substitute steps two, four, six and eight with right heel closes to left instep with toe turned out. Partners must stay square to each other.

Merengue

MG - Fig 3 - 9

Chassé 4 (Side Basic) 1 measure - 1234 Level of Difficulty 4

MAN CP fcg WALL - sd L, cl R almost to L, sd L, cl R almost to L;

LADY CP fcg COH - sd R, cl L almost to R, sd R, cl L almost to R;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

sd L

nil

IE of B & HF

Merengue Cuban

throughout

part wgt on B until R ft is moved.

2

2

-

cl R

almost to L

-

BF

-

3

3

-

sd L

-

IE of B & HF

-

part wgt on B until R foot is moved.

4

4

-

cl R

almost to L

-

BF

-

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

sd R

nil

IE of B & HF

Merengue Cuban

Throughout

part wgt on B until L ft is moved.

2

2

-

cl L

almost to R

-

BF

-

3

3

-

sd R

-

IE of B & HF

-

part wgt on B until L ft is moved.

4

4

-

cl L

almost to R

-

BF

-

Chasse 4 (Side Basic) (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 3 - 10


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the wall. [Step 1.] Step to the side with the left foot onto the inside edge of the ball of the foot and the heel. Do not take full weight until the right foot is moved. Hips should be strong to the right until the right foot is moved. The left leg will remain straight. [Step 2.] The right foot will almost close to the left foot, (ball flat). Take full weight and straighten the leg allowing the natural hip action. [Step 3.) Repeat step one. [Step 4.] Repeat step two.

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the center of hall. [Step 1.] Step side with the right foot onto the inside edge of the ball of the foot and the heel. Do not take full weight until the left foot is moved. Hips should be strong to the left until the left foot is moved. The right leg will remain straight. [Step 2.] The left foot will almost close to the right foot, (ball flat). Take full weight and straighten the leg allowing the natural hip action. (Step 3.) Repeat step one. (Step 4.) Repeat step two.

GENERAL NOTES

The Chassé can be danced in any number of steps (2, 4, 6, 8, etc.) and may be turned to the left in a circular pattern. It can precede or follow any figure that ends or begins in a Closed Position. There is no swiveling action of the feet and should be danced with little or no rise and fall.

Merengue

MG – Fig 19 - 57

Circle Walk Right (same hand walk around) 2 measures - 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 4

MAN Sd by Sd pos slt apt right hand hold at shldr level fcg WALL - Fwd L, fwd R, fwd L, fwd R; fwd L, fwd R, sd & fwd L, cl R to L;

LADY Sd by Sd pos slt apt right hand hold at shldr level fcg COH - Fwd R, fwd L, fwd R, fwd L; fwd R, fwd L trn LF undr jnd right hnds, bk R, sd L sml stp;

MAN

Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount

of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

fwd L trn

RF B or BF

fwd walks circle RF

2

2

fwd R cont urn

-

-

3

3

fwd L cont trn

-

-

4

4

fwd R cont trn

-

-

5

1

fwd L cont trn

-

-

fwd walks circle RF- maintain jnd right hnd clasp at shldr level thru out stps 1 to 5.

6

2

fwd R cont trn

-

-

circle walk RF & ld lady to trn LF undr raised jnd hnds.

7

3

sd and Slt fwd L

-

-

circle walk RF & cont ldng lady to trn LF undr jnd right hnds.

8

4

WALL to

WALL

cl R to L

1 full RF trn ovr 8

steps

-

closing stp

lwr & release jnd right hnds ending in CP at comp of lady’s trn.

LADY

Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount

of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

fwd R trn RF

B or BF

fwd walk circle RF

2

2

fwd L cont trn

-

-

3

3

fwd R cont trn

-

-

4

4

COH to

RLOD

fwd L

cont trn

3/4

RF trn ovr stps 1-5

-

-

fwd walks crcl RF- maintain jnd right hnd clasp at shldr level throughout steps 1 to 5

Circle Walk Right (same (continued) Merengue

MG – Fig 19 - 58

5

1

fwd R cont trn

-

-

6

2

fwd L comm LF

trn

-

fwd walk strt LF trn

raise jnd right hnds fwd L comm LF trn undr jnd right hnds

7

3

bk R cont LF trn

-

bk walk cont LF trn

bk R cont LF trn undr jnd right hnds

8

4

RLOD to

WALL

sml sd R

up to 3/4 trn LF ovr 6-8

-

L almost cl to R

stp sd L almost closing to R ft lwr and rel jnd hnds


MAN Start in a side by side position, slightly apart and facing opposite directions with right hands joined about shoulder level. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot circling to the right. [Step 2.] Step forward onto the right foot continuing to circle to the right. [Step 3.] Repeat step one. [Step 4.] Repeat step two. [Step 5.] Repeat step one. [Step 6.] Raising the joined right hands, step forward on the right foot leading the lady to turn to the left under the joined hands. Continue to circle to the right. [Step 7.] Continue leading the lady to turn to the left, stepping side and slightly forward to the right. Continue to circle to the right. [Step 8.] Lowering and releasing the joined right hands, close the right foot to the left foot and retake Closed Position at the end of the lady’s underarm turn.

LADY Start in a side by side position slightly apart and facing opposite directions with right hands joined about shoulder level. [Step 1.] Step forward on the right foot circling to the right. [Step 2.] Step forward on the left foot continuing to circle to the right. [Step 3.] Repeat step one. [Step 4.] Repeat step two. [Step 5.] Repeat step one. [Step 6.] Step forward on the left foot starting a left turn under the raised arms. [Step 7.] Step back on the right foot continuing to turn to the left. [Step 8.] Lowering and releasing the joined hands, take a small step to the side with the left foot, retaking a Closed Position at the end of the turn.

GENERAL NOTES Figure may be danced from any facing position.

MAN - A slight swivel left may be danced on steps 1, 3 and 5 and right on steps 2, 4 and 6,

maintaining an overall right turning action throughout the pattern. The swivel on steps 1, 3 and 5 will be danced on the ball of the right foot immediately taking weight to the left foot. The swivel on steps 2, 4 and 6 will be danced on the ball of the left foot immediately taking weight onto the right foot. When the swivel action is danced, the man will lead the lady through a bracing of the right arm to swivel strongly to her right on steps 1, 3 and 5 and to her left on steps 2 and 4. The underarm turn left is commenced by the swivel action on step 6 immediately raising joined hands.

LADY - When the swivel action is led by the man, a slight bracing of the right arm will be felt. A

strong swivel to the right may be danced on the ball of the left foot on steps 1, 3 and 5 and a slight swivel to the left may be danced on the ball of the right foot on steps 2 and 4, maintaining an overall right turning action throughout steps 1- 5.

Merengue

MG - Fig 26 - 77 S#5 2001

Conga Break (Simple)

1 Measure – 123&4 Level of Difficulty 5

MAN CP fcng WALL - snap to SCP stpng twd LOD on L, fwd R, swvl on R cl L to R, swvl on L /stp sltly bk R, xtnd L H fwd;

LADY CP RLOD - snap to SCP stpng twd LOD on R, fwd L, swvl on L cl R to L, swvl on R /stp sltly bk L, xtnd R H fwd;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

fwd L

1/4 LF

HF

ld lady to SCP

2

2

LOD

fwd R

-

THF

3

3

-

swvl RF on R cl L to R

1/4 RF

B of R F of L

ld lady to CP

4

&

WALL

swvl LF on L stp bk sltly

on R 1/4 LF

B of L BF of R

ld lady to SCP

5

4

LOD

xtnd L fwd

nil

H of L

xtnd L fwd w/T up & H pressed into flr

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

fwd R

nil

HF

trn to SCP

2

2

LOD

fwd L

-

F

3

3

-

swvl LF on L cl R to L

1/4 LF

B of L F of R

trn to CP

4

&

COH

swvl RF on R stp bk sltly

on L 1/4 RF

B of R BF of L

trn to SCP

5

4

LOD

xtnd fwd R

nil

H of R

xtnd R fwd w/T up & H pressed into flr

Conga Break (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 26 - 78 S#5 2001


MAN

Start in Closed Position facing WALL. [Step 1.] Snap to semi-closed position turning 1/4 left face, turning lady right face, to step forward on left foot toward LOD. [Step 2.] Step forward on the right foot. [Step 3.] Swivel right face on the ball of the right foot turning 1/4 to face the WALL and close the left foot to the right. [Step 4.] Swivel on the ball of the left foot turning left face 1/4 to face LOD and step slightly back on the right foot. [Step 5.] Fully extend the left foot forward with the toe up and the back edge of the heel on the floor.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing COH. [Step 1.] Snap to semi-closed position turning 1/4 right face to step forward on right foot toward LOD. [Step 2.] Step forward on the left foot. [Step 3.] Swivel left face on the ball of the left foot turning 1/4 to face COH and close the right foot to the left. [Step 4.] Swivel on the ball of the right foot turning right face 1/4 to face the LOD and step slightly back on the left foot. [Step 5.] Fully extend the right foot forward with the toe up and the back edge of the heel on the floor.

GENERAL NOTES

The Conga Break (Crossing Over) may be substituted for the Conga Break (Simple). The only change in the footwork occurs on the 3rd step for both man and lady by replacing the closing step with a crossing step. Man will cross left over right (the swiveling foot), onto the ball of the left foot; lady will cross right over left (the swiveling foot), onto the ball of the right foot.

Merengue

MG - Fig 8 - 19

Conga Walks (Syncopated Promenade Walks) 1 measure - 123a4 Level of Difficulty 5

MAN SCP LOD - sd & fwd L, fwd R, swvl RF cl L to R, swvl LF sd & bk R/tch L heel to fl fwd;

LADY SCP LOD - sd and & fwd R, fwd L, swvl LF cl R to L, swvl RF sd and bk L/tch R heel to fl fwd;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

DLW

sd & fwd

L

nil

BF

Merengue Cuban

hips do not move L until the right ft starts to move

2

2

-

fwd R

1/8 RF

-

-

CBMP - trn to the right is taken after the stp not before.

3

3

WALL

cl L to R

nil

-

-

4

a

-

sd & bk

R

1/8 LF

B

swvl LF on the left ft before taking the stp.

5

4

DLW

tch L H fwd no wgt

nil

L H no wgt,

right F

right hip strong to right

left ft should not move to right ft on stp 4, it remains in pl to do the H pt.

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

DLC

sd & fwd

R

nil

BF

Merengue Cuban

hips do not move right until the left foot starts to move

2

2

-

fwd L

1/8 LF

B

-

CBMP - turn to the left is taken after the stp not before

3

3

COH

cl R to L

nil

BF

-

4

a

-

sd & bk L

1/8 RF

B

swvl RF on the R ft before taking the stp.

5

4

DLC

tch R H fwd no wt

nil

right H no wgt, left F

R ft should not move to L ft on step 4, it remains in place to do the H pt.

Conga Walks (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 8 - 20


MAN Start in a Semi-Closed Dance Position moving towards the line of dance. [Step 1.] Step to the side and forward on the left foot (ball flat). Use the Merengue Cuban action of moving the right hip further to the right, and not moving the hips to the left until starting to take a step with the right foot. [Step 2.] Step forward on the right foot (ball flat). No turn is made on the first half of the step or when weight is taken on the ball of the foot. Before dropping to the flat of the foot, swivel to the right to face the partner. [Step 3.] The left foot closes almost to the right foot (ball flat). [Step 4.] Swivel left face on the left foot into a Semi-Closed Position and step side and back on the ball of the right foot. The left foot does not move toward the right foot. [Step 5.] Lower into the flat of the right foot allowing the right hip to move well to the right. Touch or "point" the left heel forward, ready to move into a Semi-Closed Dance Position toward line of dance.

LADY Start in a Semi-Closed Dance Position moving towards the line of dance. [Step 1.] Step side and forward on the right foot (ball flat). Use the Merengue Cuban action of moving the left hip further to the left and not moving the hips to the right until starting to take a step with the left foot. [Step 2.] Step forward on the left foot (ball flat). No turn is made on the first half of the step or when weight is taken on the ball of the foot. Before dropping to the flat of the foot swivel to the left to face the partner. [Step 3.] The right foot closes almost to the left foot (ball flat). [Step 4.] Swivel right face on the right foot into a Semi-Closed Position and step side and back on the ball of the left foot. The right foot does not move toward the left foot. [Step 5.] Lower into the flat of the left foot allowing the left hip to move well to the left and touch or "point" the right heel forward, ready to move in a Semi-Closed Dance Position toward line of dance.

GENERAL NOTES This figure may be danced with more swiveling action. It may be danced similar to the Promenade Swivels. The first three steps would be identical. After step three, both dancers swivel to a Semi-Closed Position on the forward foot and close on the ball of the inside foot on the “a” count. The heel of the outside foot is "pointed" forward with no weight as the inside foot goes flat on the rest of count four.

Merengue

MG – Fig 16 - 47

Forward and Back Conga 2 measures - 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 4

MAN OP low dbl handhold fcg lady & WALL - fwd L, fwd R, fwd L, pt R fwd no wgt; bk R, bk L, bk R, pt L bk no wgt;

LADY OP low dbl handhold fcg man & COH - bk R, bk L, bk R, pt L bk no weight; fwd L, fwd R, fwd L, pt R fwd no wgt;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

fwd L

nil

BF


R sd ld CBM - draw jnd L/R hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd R /L hnds fwd twd lady’s waist

2

2

-

fwd R

-

-

-

L sd lead CBM - draw jnd R /L hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd L/R hnds fwd twd lady’s waist

3

3

-

fwd L

-

-

-

R sd ld CBM - draw jnd L/R hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd R /L hnds fwd twd lady’s waist

4

4

-

pt R fwd

-

pt T

-

L sd ld CBM - draw jnd

R /L hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd L/R hnds fwd twd lady’s waist

5

1

-

bk R

-

BF

-

L sd ld CBM - draw jnd L/R hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd R /L hnds fwd twd lady’s waist

6

2

-

bk L

-

-

-

R sd ld CBM - draw jnd


7

3

-

bk R

-

-

-

L sd ld CBM - draw jnd L/R hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd R /L hnds fwd twd lady’s waist

8

4

-

pt L bk

-

pt T

-



Forward and Back Conga (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 16 - 48

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

bk R

nil

BF

Cuban thru-out

L sd ld CBM - draw jnd L/R hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd R /L hnds fwd twd man’s waist

2

2

-

bk L

-

-

-

R sd ld CBM - draw jnd R/L hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd L/R hnds fwd twd man’s waist

3

3

-

bk R

-

-

-


4

4

-

Pt L bk

-

T

-


R/L hnds bkwd twd waist & extend jnd L/R hnds fwd twd man’s waist

5

1

-

fwd L

-

BF

-


6

2

-

fwd R

-

-

-



7

3

-

fwd L

-

-

-


8

4

-

pt R fwd

-

T

-




MAN Start in an Open Facing Position with a low double handhold at waist level. [Step 1.] With right side lead (CBM), step forward on the left foot, drawing the joined left/right (lead) hands backward toward the waist and extending the joined right/left (trail) hands forward toward the waist of the lady. [Step 2.] With a left side lead (CBM), step forward on the right foot, drawing the joined right/left (trail) hands backward toward the waist and extending the joined left/right (lead) hands forward toward the waist of the lady. [Step 3.] With a right side lead (CBM), step forward on the left foot, drawing the joined left/right (lead) hands backward toward the waist and extending the joined right/left (trail) hands forward

Forward and Back Conga (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 16 - 49

toward the waist of the lady. [Step 4.] With a left side lead (CBM), point right foot forward with toe pointed down, drawing joined right/left (trail) hands backward toward the waist and extending joined left/right (lead) hands forward toward the waist of lady. [Step 5.] With a left side lead (CBM), step back on the right foot, drawing the joined left/right (lead) hands backward toward the waist and extending the joined right/left (trail) hands forward toward the waist of the lady. [Step 6.] With a right side lead (CBM), step back on the left foot, drawing the joined right/left (trail) hands backward toward waist and extending the joined left/right (lead) hands forward toward the waist of the lady. [Step7.] With a left side lead (CBM), step back on the right foot, drawing the joined left/right (lead) hands backward toward waist and extending the joined right/left (trail) hands forward toward the waist of the lady. [Step 8.] With a right side lead (CBM), point left foot back with the toe pointed down, drawing the joined right/left (trail) hands backward toward waist and extending the joined left/right (lead) hands forward toward the waist of lady.

LADY Start in an Open Facing Position with a low double handhold at waist level. [Step 1.] With a left side lead (CBM), step back on the right foot drawing the joined left/right (trail) hands backward toward waist and extending the joined right/left (lead) hands forward toward the man’s waist. [Step 2.] With a right side lead (CBM), step back onto the left foot drawing the joined right/left (lead) hands backward toward the waist and extending the joined left/right (trail) hands forward toward the man’s waist. [Step 3.] With a left side lead (CBM), step back on the right foot drawing the joined left/right (trail) hands backward toward waist and extending joined right/left (lead) hands) forward toward mans waist. [Step 4.] With a right side lead (CBM), point left foot back with toe pointed down, drawing joined right/left hands (lead) hands backward toward waist and extending joined left/right (trailing) hands forward toward the man’s waist. [Step 5.] With a right side lead (CBM), step forward on the left foot drawing joined left/right (trail) hands backward toward waist and extending the joined right/left (lead) hands forward toward mans waist. [Step 6.] With a left side lead (CBM), step forward on the right foot drawing the joined right/left (lead) hands, moving backward, and joined (trail) left/right hands moving forward staying in CBM. [Step.7] With a right side lead (CBM), step forward on the left foot drawing joined left/right (trail) hands backward toward the waist and extending joined right/left (lead) hands forward toward man’s waist. [Step 8.] With a left side lead (CBM), point right foot forward, drawing joined right/left (lead) hands backward toward the waist and extending the joined left/right (trail) hands forward toward the man’s waist.

GENERAL NOTES

Use CBM with jnd hnds alternately moving fwd & bwd at waist level on all steps for both man & lady. The forward and back action of the joined hands can be thought of as the action of a piston.

OPTION - Measure 8 - foot pointing for both man and lady may be substituted with a touch beside the standing foot based on the figure that follows.

Merengue

MG – Fig 4 - 11

Forward Basic

1 measure - 1234 Level of Difficulty 4

MAN CP LOD - fwd L, fwd R, fwd L, fwd R;

LADY CP RLOD - bk R, bk L, bk R, bk L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

LOD

fwd L

nil

BF


Fwd walks - poise should be slt fwd twd ptnr throughout. end on straight leg.

2

2

-

fwd R

-

-

-

same as step one.

3

3

-

fwd L

-

-

-

same as step one.

4

4

-

fwd R

-

-

-

same as step one.

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

RLOD

bk R

nil

BF


Bwd walks - poise should be slt fwd twd ptnr throughout. end on straight leg.

2

2

-

bk L

-

-

-

same as step one.

3

3

-

bk R

-

-

-

same as step one.

4

4

-

bk L

-

-

-

same as step one.


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the line of dance and moving toward the line of dance. This figure begins with full weight on the right leg. The right leg should be straight with the right hip slightly back. The steps in this figure are almost like two action steps. Each action takes one-half of a beat, however, the movement is continuous without a definite break in the action. [Step 1.] Step forward with the left foot onto the left toe. As the left foot moves forward, the right hip will move backward. Take full weight on the left foot allowing the leg to straighten and the right hip to move forward. The left hip will start to move slightly back. [Step 2.] This step is the natural opposite of step one. [Step 3.] This step is the same as step one. [Step 4.] This step is the same as step two.

Forward Basic (continued) Merengue

MG – Fig 4 - 12

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the reverse line of dance and moving backward down the line of dance. This figure begins with full weight on the left leg. The left leg should be straight with the left hip slightly back. The steps in this figure are almost like two action steps. Each action takes one-half of a beat, however, the movement is continuous without a definite brake in the action. [Step 1.] Step backward with the right foot onto the right toe. As the right foot moves backward, the left hip will move forward. Take full weight on the right foot allowing the leg to straighten and the left hip to move backward. The right hip will start to move slightly forward. [Step 2.] This step is the natural opposite of step one. [Step 3.] This step is the same as step one. [Step 4.] This step is the same as step two.

GENERAL NOTES

This figure may be danced facing any direction. It may also be turned to the left or the right. The number of steps can be any even number (2,4,6,8, etc.) also. The lady backing up will not be able to get as much "rolling" action with her hips as the man is moving forward.

Merengue

MG - Fig 18 - 53

Forward Spot Turn (aka Reverse Top) 2 measure – 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 6

MAN

CP LOD - Trn LF fwd L, cont trn fwd R, cont trn rplc wgt to L, cont trn fwd R; cont trn rplc wgt to L, cont trn fwd R, cont trn rplc wgt to L, fwd & sd R;

LADY CP RLOD - Trn LF sd & bk R, cont trn sd L, cont trn sd & bk R, cont trn sd L; cont trn sd & bk R, cont trn sd L, cont trn sd R, cont trn sd & bk L;

MAN Step

# Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 1

start in any fcg pos

fwd L T trnd out

up to 2 full trns ovr stps 1 thru 8 BF sd wlk

Trng LF stp fwd L with T trnd out lead lady thru R arm & bdy trn to L sd so lady’s R ft is sltly outsd man’s L ft. Keep square to ptnr throughout figure.

2

2

-

sd & fwd R

-

-

-

Cont trn fwd R.

3 3 - rplc wgt to L - - -

Cont trng on B of R foot rplc wgt to L ft end with L-H in frnt of R-T with T trnd out like figure 7.

4

4

-

sd & fwd R

-

-

-

rpt step 2

5

1

-

rplc wgt to L

-

-

-

rpt step 3

6

2

-

sd & fwd R

-

-

-

rpt step 2

7

3

-

rplc wgt to L

-

-

-

rpt step 3

8

4

-

sd & fwd R

-

-

-

R foot sd & slt fwd end in CP

LADY

Step

# Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

Start in any fcg pos

R ft Bk & slt sd

Up to 2 full trns ovr stps 1 thru 8

BF

Bk wlk

Trng LF sd & slt bk R ft moving to man’s L sd with R ft sltly outsd man’s L ft keeping square to ptnr throughout figure.

2

2

-

XLIB R T trnd out

-

-

-

cont LF trn XLIB with R T trnd out

Forward Spot Turn (continued)

MG - Fig 15 - 54

3

3

-

R ft bk & slt sd

-

-

-

R ft sd & slt bk cont to turn LF

4

4

-

XLIB R T trnd out

-

-

-

Repeat stp 2

5

1

-

R ft bk & slt sd

-

-

-

Repeat stp 3

6

2

-

XLIB R T trnd out

-

-

-

Repeat stp 2

7

3

-

R ft bk & slt sd

-

-

-

Repeat stp 3

8

4

-

L ft bk & slt sd

-

-

-

L ft bk & slt sd end in CP


MAN Start in a loose Closed Dance Position facing partner in any direction. [Step 1.] Commencing a left turn on the right foot, step forward on the left foot with the toe turned out and thighs crossed. [Step 2.] Continuing turning to the left, stepping to the side and forward with the right foot. [Step 3.] Continue to turn to the left on the ball of the right foot, replacing the weight on the left foot and ending with the left heel to the toe of the right foot. [Step 4.] Repeat step two. [Step 5.] Repeat step three. [Step 6.] Repeat step two. [Step 7.] Repeat step three. [Step 8.] Step side and forward onto the right foot ending in a Closed Position.

LADY Start in a loose Closed Dance Position. [Step 1.] Commencing a left turn, step back and slightly to the side on the right foot. [Step 2.] Continue turning to the left crossing the left foot in back of the right foot with the right toe turned out, and the left toe in back of right heel. [Step 3.] Continuing to turn to the left and step back and slightly to the side on the right foot. [Step 4.] Repeat step two. [Step 5.] Repeat step three. [Step 6.] Repeat step two. [Step 7.] Repeat step three. [Step 8.] Step to the side and slightly back on the right foot ending in a Closed Position.

GENERAL NOTES

All steps should be taken ball flat. The Cuban action (gentle rolling of the hips) is greatly reduced in the turning figures. The Lady must be led thru the Man’s right arm and the body turned to move toward his left side so that the Ladies right foot would be outside the Man’s left foot on steps 1, 3, 5, 7. OPTIONAL - Steps 7 and 8 may be substituted with steps 7 and 8 of the Fifth Position Break.

Merengue

MG – Fig 5 - 13

Left Turning Rock


MAN CP WALL - Trng LF fwd L, trng LF bk R, sd L, cl R almost to L;

LADY CP COH - trng LF bk R, trng LF fwd L, sd R, cl L almost to R;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

fwd L

1/8 LF

BF


CBM - ft should T out for balance, hip action is delayed until taking whole wgt on L ft.

2

2

DLW

bk R

-

-

-

ft should T out for balance.

3

3

LOD

sd L

-

IE of WF, WF

-

ft placement creates trn, bdy turns less, hip action is delayed until taking full wgt on L ft.

4

4

DLC

cl R to L

nil

WF

-

bdy catches up.

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

bk R

1/8 LF

BF


CBM - ft should T out for balance, hip action is delayed until taking whole wgt on R ft.

2

2

DRC

fwd L

-

-

-


3

3

RLOD

sd R

-

IE of WF, WF

-


4

4

DRW

cl L to R

nil

WF

-

a slt trn or swvl of the ft may be necessary to stay in CP with the man.

Left Turning Rock (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 5 - 14


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the wall. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot (ball flat) using a Contra Body Movement position. Toeing out will help to maintain proper balance. The right hip should go further to the right as the left foot moves forward onto the toe. As the weight is dropped to the heel of the left foot, the hips move to the left. [Step 2.] The right foot will move slightly to the side, however, the turn of the body to the left will make it a back step. Toe out for balance. The hip action with the right foot is delayed until the next step is taken with the left foot. [Step 3.] Move the left foot to the side on the inside edge of the whole foot, toeing out. The toeing out is for balance and aids in the turn, as the man is on the inside of the turn. The hip action is the same as for step one, as the weight is taken on the whole foot. [Step 4.] There will be a slight turn of the body to finish the turn as the right foot is closed almost to the left foot. There will be no further turn of the feet. The right foot should turn out slightly and weight should be distributed on the whole foot. The majority of the hip action to the right will be on the next step with the left foot.

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the center of the hall. [Step 1.] Step back on the right foot (ball flat) using a Contra Body Movement position. Toeing out will help maintain proper balance. The left hip should go further to the left as the right foot moves back onto the toe. As weight is dropped to the heel of the right foot, the hips move to the right. [Step 2.] The left foot will move slightly to the side, however, the turn of the body to the left will make it a forward step. Toe out for balance. The hip action is delayed until the next step is taken with the right foot. [Step 3.] Move the right foot to the side onto the inside edge of the whole foot, toeing out. The toeing out is for balance. The hip action is the same as for step one as weight is taken on the whole foot. [Step 4.] The right foot is closed almost to the left foot. There may be a slight swivel of the right foot to stay in Closed Position with the man. The left foot should turn out slightly and weight should be distributed on the whole foot. The majority of the hip action to the left will be on the next step with the right foot.

GENERAL NOTES

As with all Merengue action, the hip action is delayed to when the weight is taken. Usually full weight is not taken until the next step is begun. This figure can be continued for succeeding measures. It is typical of most Merengue figures and may be continued indefinitely.

Merengue

MG - Fig 23 - 67

Mark Time


MAN CP fcg WALL - stp in pl L, stp in pl R, stp in pl L, stp in pl R;

LADY CP fcg COH - stp in pl R, stp in pl L, stp in pl R, stp in pl L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

in pl L

nil

IE WF TO WF

Cuban Motion

lwr to WF end of bt

2

2

-

in pl R

-

IE WF TO WF

-

lwr to WF end of bt

3

3

-

in pl L

-

IE WF TO WF

-

lwr to WF end of bt

4

4

-

in pl R

-

IE WF TO WF

-

lwr to WF end of bt

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

in pl R

nil

IE WF TO WF

Cuban Motion

lwr to WF end of bt

2

2

-

in pl L

-

IE WF TO WF

-

lwr to WF end of bt

3

3

-

in pl R

-

IE WF TO WF

-

lwr to WF end of bt

4

4

-

in pl L

-

IE WF TO WF

-

lwr to WF end of bt


MAN Start in Closed Position facing WALL. [Step 1.] Step in place left on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat. [Step 2.] Step in place right on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat. [Step 3.] Step in place left on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat. [Step 4.] Step in place right on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat.

Mark Time (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 23 - 68

LADY Start in Closed Position facing COH. [Step 1.] Step in place right on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat. [Step 2.] Step in place left on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat. [Step 3.] Step in place right on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat. [Step 4.] Step in place left on the inside edge of the whole foot and transfer weight to the whole foot end of beat.

GENERAL NOTES

This figure may start facing any direction. Use foot, leg and hip Technique as described in the Introduction section of the Merengue.

Merengue

MG - Fig 22 - 65

Merengue Glide

1 measure - 1&2&34 Level of Difficulty 3

MAN CP fcg WALL - sd L/cl R to L, sd L/cl R to L, sd L, cl R to L;

LADY CP fcg COH - sd R/cl L to R, sd R/cl L to R, sd R, cl L to R;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

sd L sml stp

nil

B

Cuban Motion

2

a

-

cl R to L

-

B

-

3

2

-

sd L sml stp

-

B

-

4

a

-

cl R to L

-

BH

-

lwrng prepares stp 5

5

3

-

sd L longer stp

-

IE of BH to WF

-

delayed wgt chg until R ft starts to mv

6

4

-

cl R to L

-

BH

-

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

sd R sml stp

nil

B

Cuban Motion

2

a

-

cl L to R

-

B

-

3

2

-

sd R sml stp

-

B

-

4

a

-

cl L to R

-

BH

-

lwrng prepares stp 5

5

3

-

sd R longer stp

-

IE of BH to WF

-

delayed wgt chg until L ft starts to mv

6

4

-

cl L to R

-

BH

-

Merengue Glide (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 22 - 66


MAN Start in Closed Position facing WALL. [Step 1.] Small step sideward on the ball of left foot. [Step 2.] Close the right foot on the ball of foot to the left foot. [Step 3.] Small step sideward on the ball of left foot. [Step 4.] Close the right foot on the ball of foot to the left foot, lowering to the heel of the right foot preparing for the longer step on step 5. [Step 5.] Maintain weight on the right foot, step side a longer step on the inside edge of the ball/heel of the left foot taking partial weight delaying a weight change to the whole foot of the left. Take full weight on the whole foot of the left as the right foot starts to close to the left foot. [Step 6.] Closed the right foot ball/heel to the left foot.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing COH. [Step 1.] Small step sideward on the ball of right foot. [Step 2.] Close the left foot on the ball of foot to the right foot. [Step 3.] Small step sideward on the ball of right foot. [Step 4.] Close the left foot on the ball of foot to the right foot, lowering to the heel of the left foot preparing for the longer step on step 5. [Step 5.] Maintain weight on the left foot, step side a longer step on the inside edge of the ball/heel of the right foot taking partial weight delaying a weight change to the whole foot of the right. Take full weight on the whole foot of the right as the left foot starts to close to the right foot. [Step 6.] Close the left foot ball/heel to the right foot.

GENERAL NOTES

The figure may start facing in any direction. Use foot, leg and hip Technique as described in the Introduction section of the Merengue.

Merengue

MG - Fig 17 - 51

Open Break

1 measure -1234 Level of Difficulty 3

MAN CP fwd L, sd R, bk L, rec R;

LADY CP bk R, fwd L, sd R, rec L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

CP

fwd L

nil

BF

fwd wlk

L ft fwd in loose CP.

2

2

-

sd R

-

I/E of BF

sd stp

R ft sd rel right hnd hold & ld lady away.

3

3

-

bk L

-

BF

bwd stp

L ft bk well undr bdy with T trnd out slt.

4

4

-

rec R

-

-

rplc wgt

Rplc wgt to right ft returning to CP.

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

CP

bk R

nil

BF

bwd wlk

R ft bk in LCP.

2

2

-

sd L

-

I/E of BF

sd stp

L ft sd rel left hnd hold breaking away from ptnr.

3

3

-

bk R

-

BF

fwd stp

R ft bk well undr bdy with T trnd out slt.

4

4

-

rec L

-

-

rplc wgt

Rplc wgt to L ft returning to CP.


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot. [Step 2.] Step to the side on the right foot releasing the right hand hold and leading the Lady away. [Step 3.] Step back on the left foot keeping it well under the body and the toe turned out slightly. [Step 4.] Recover onto the right foot returning to a Closed Position.

Open Break (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 17 - 52

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position. [Step 1.] Step back on the right foot. [Step 2.] Step to the side and slightly back on the left foot, releasing the left hand hold. [Step 3.] Step back on the right foot keeping it well under the body and the toe turned out slightly. [Step 4.] Recover onto the left foot returning to a Closed Position.

GENERAL NOTES Figure may be danced from any facing position. As both dancers are stepping apart, the steps must be kept small. Using Cuban motion, keep weight over the balls of the feet.

Merengue

MG - Fig 7 - 17

Promenade Swivels 1 measure - 1234 Level of Difficulty 5

MAN SCP moving LOD - sd L, fwd R, sd L, cl R to L;

LADY SCP moving LOD - sd R, fwd L, sd R, cl L to R;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

DLW

sd L

1\8 RF

IE of

WF, WF

Merengue Cuban

swvl on R ft 1/8 as ft moves to sd.

2

2

WALL

fwd R

1/8 LF

BF

-

swvl on L ft 1/8 then stp fwd.

3

3

DLW

sd L

1/8 RF

IE of

WF, WF

-

swvl on R ft 1/8 as ft moves to sd.

4

4

WALL

cl R to L

nil

-

-

sd wlk action - ft almost closes & not fully closed.

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

DLC

sd R

1/8 LF

IE of

WF, WF

Merengue Cuban

swvl on L ft 1/8 as ft moves to sd.

2

2

COH

fwd L

1/8 RF

BF

-

swvl on R ft 1/8 then stp fwd.

3

3

DLC

sd R

1/8 LF

IE of

WF, WF

-

swvl on L ft 1/8 as ft moves to sd.

4

4

COH

cl L to R

nil

-

-

sd wlk action - ft almost closes & not fully closed.


MAN Start in a Semi-Closed Dance Position moving towards the line of dance. [Step 1.] Swivel to the right on the right foot and step to the side with the left foot on the inside edge of the whole foot. The hip action is like any side step in the Merengue. [Step 2.] Swivel to the left on the left foot then step forward with the right foot (ball flat). [Step 3.] Same as step one. [Step 4.] Close the right foot almost to the left foot using the inside edge of the whole foot then the whole foot. This step ends in a Closed Dance Position.

Promenade Swivels (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 7 - 18

LADY Start in a Semi-Closed Dance Position moving towards the line of dance. [Step 1.] Swivel to the left on the left foot and step to the side with the right foot on the inside edge of the whole foot. The hip action is like any side step in the Merengue. [Step 2.] Swivel to the right on the right foot then step forward on the left foot (ball flat). [Step 3.] Same as step one. [Step 4.] Close the left foot almost to the right foot using the inside edge of the whole foot then the whole foot. This step ends in a Closed Dance Position.

GENERAL NOTES

Steps one and two may be repeated any number of times prior to steps three and four. This is the discretion of the choreographer. The swiveling prior to taking steps one, two and three are hip twist and the hip for the foot that is swiveling should move further away from the moving leg.

Merengue

MG – Fig 1 - 3

Separation (Back Release) 2 measure - 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 4

MAN CP fcg WALL - bk L, bk R, bk L, bk R; fwd L, fwd R, fwd L, fwd R;

LADY CP fcg COH - bk R, bk L, bk R, bk L; fwd R, fwd L, fwd R, fwd L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

bk L

nil

BF

Merengue Cuban

sml bwd stp allow left hnd to sld dwn ptnr’s right arm

2

2

-

bk R

-

-

-

sml bk stp

3

3

-

bk L

-

-

-

sml bk stp

4

4

-

bk R

-

-

-

sml bk stp, should now be at arms length with four hnds jnd

5

1

-

fwd L

-

-

-

sml fwd stp, left hnd moving up ptnr’s arm

6

2

-

fwd R

-

-

-

sml fwd stp

7

3

-

fwd L

-

-

-

sml fwd stp

8

4

-

fwd R

-

-

-

sml fwd stp back to CP where fig started

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

bk R

nil

BF

Merengue Cuban

sml bwd stp, allowing right hnd to sld down ptnr’s arm.

2

2

-

bk L

-

-

-

sml bk stp.

3

3

-

bk R

-

-

-

sml bk stp.

4

4

-

bk L

-

-

-

sml bk stp, should now be at arms length with four hnds jnd.

5

1

-

fwd R

-

-

-

sml fwd stp, right hnd moving up ptnr's arm.

6

2

-

fwd L

-

-

-

sml fwd stp.

7

3

-

fwd R

-

-

-

sml fwd stp.

8

4

-

fwd L

-

-

-

sml fwd stp to CP where fig started.

Separation (back release) (continued) Merengue

MG – Fig 1 - 4


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the wall. [Step 1.] Using the Cuban motion, step back a small step on the left foot. The left hand should begin to slide down the lady's right arm toward her hand. A right to left handhold will be maintained throughout. [Step 2.] Continue the backward movement, with a small step back on the right foot. [Step 3.] Continue the backward movement with a small step back on the left foot. [Step 4.] Continue the backward movement to arm’s length with a back step on the right foot. The man’s left hand and the lady's right hand should now be joined. [Step 5.] Begin moving toward the lady with a small forward step with the left foot. The man's left hand will start to move up the lady's right arm. A Cuban motion will continue to be used. [Step 6.] Continue the forward movement with a small step forward on the right foot. [Step 7.] Continue the forward movement with a small forward step on the left foot. [Step 8.] Step forward, a small step, on the right foot into a Closed Dance Position. The right hand should be back on the lady's upper arm in a normal hold.

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the center of the hall. [Step 1.] Using the Cuban motion, step back a small step on the right foot. The right hand should begin to slide down the man's left arm toward his hand. A left to right hand hold will be maintained throughout. [Step 2.] Continue the backward movement with a small step back on the left foot. [Step 3.] Continue the backward movement with a small step back on the right foot. [Step 4.] Continue the backward movement to an arm’s length with a back step on the left foot. The manes left hand and the lady's right hand should now be joined. [Step 5.] Begin moving toward the man with a small forward step with the right foot. The lady’s right hand will start to move up the man's left arm. A Cuban motion will continue to be used. [Step 6.] Continue the forward movement with a small step forward on the left foot. [Step 7.] Continue the forward movement with a small forward step on the right foot. [Step 8.] Step forward, a small step, on the left foot into a Closed Dance Position. The left hand should be back on the man's upper arm in a normal hold.

GENERAL NOTES

Both dancers are moving away from each other and then back together. Small steps must be used. The use of Cuban motion throughout the figure will make what could be a rather dull figure very enjoyable. It also lends to individual expression which can add to the fun of dancing.

Merengue

MG – Fig 12 - 33

Side Basic 1 measure - 1234 Level of Difficulty 2

MAN Start in CP - Sd L, cl R, sd L, cl R;

LADY Start in CP - Sd R, cl L, sd R, cl L;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

sd L

nil

I/E of B & H to WF

Sd wlk with Cuban action

In CP stp sd on left ft on IE of B & H with left knee slt bent, straighten leg & take full wgt to WF at end of beat.

2

2

-

cl R to L

-

WF

-

Cl right ft to left ft taking full wgt at end of beat.

3

3

-

sd L

-

I/E of B & H to WF

-

Repeat stp 1.

4

4

-

cl R to L

-

WF

-

Repeat stp 2.

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

sd R

nil

I/E of B & H to WF

sd wlk with Cuban action

In CP stp sd on right ft on IE of B & H with bent knee, straighten leg & take full wgt to WF at end of beat.

2

2

-

cl L to R

"

WF

-

Cl left ft to right ft taking full weight at end of beat.

3

3

-

sd R

"

I/E of B & H to WF

-

Repeat stp 1.

4

4

-

cl L to R

"

WF

-

Repeat stp 2.

Side Break (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 13 - 34


MAN Start in a loose Closed Position with weight on the right foot and the left leg slightly flexed. [Step 1.] Lowering slightly into the right leg, place the left foot to the side on the inside edge of the ball and heel of the foot with partial weight, taking full weight to the whole foot at the end of the beat. [Step 2.] As full weight is taken on the left foot, bring the right foot to almost close to the left foot using the whole foot. Take full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 3.] Lowering slightly into the right leg, place the left foot to the side on the inside edge of the ball and heel of the foot with partial weight, taking full weight to the whole foot at the end of the beat. [Step 4.] As full weight is taken on the left foot, bring the right foot to almost close to the left foot using the whole foot taking full weight at the end of the beat.

LADY Start in a loose Closed Position with weight on the left foot and the right leg slightly flexed. [Step 1.] Lowering slightly into the left leg, place the right foot to the side on the inside edge of the ball and heel of the foot with partial weight, taking full weight to the whole foot at the end of the beat. [Step 2.] As full weight is taken on the right foot, bring the left foot to almost close to the right foot using the whole foot. Take full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 3.] Lowering slightly into the left leg, place the right foot to the side on the inside edge of the ball and heel of the foot with partial weight, taking full weight to the whole foot at the end of the beat. [Step 4.] As full weight is taken on the right foot, bring the left foot to almost close to the right foot and take full weight at the end of the beat.

GENERAL NOTES

Step's 5-8 repeat, step's 1-4 for the man are L, R, L, R and lady R, L, R, L. Figure may be done from any facing position.

Merengue

MG – Fig 2 - 7

Side Break 1 measure - 1234 Level of Difficulty 4

MAN CP LOD - sd L, cl R to L, sd L, rec to R;

LADY CP RLOD - sd R, cl L to R, sd R, rec to L;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

LOD

sd L

nil

BF

Cuban

basic sd stp, a sml stp.

2

2

-

cl R to

L

-

-

-

3

3

-

sd L

-

-

-

a rk stp, the right ft does not move twd the left ft.

4

4

-

rec to R

-

-

-

rec to right ft without moving the ft.

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

RLOD

sd R

nil

BF

Cuban

basic sd stp, a sml stp.

2

2

-

cl L to R

-

-

-

3

3

-

sd R

-

-

-

a rk stp, the left ft does not move twd the right ft.

4

4

-

rec to L

-

-

-

rec to left ft without moving the ft.

NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the line of dance. [Step 1.] The left foot moves to the side a small step with partial weight taken. Keep the right hip strongly to the right. [Step 2.] Start the hips moving to the left and transfer full weight to the left foot and straighten the left leg. The right foot is allowed to almost close to the left foot with the some weight still on the left foot. [Step 3.] Allow full weight to the right foot with a straight leg which will move the hips to the right. The left foot moves to the side, a small step as in step one, however the body does not move over the standing leg. This step uses a rocking action so the right foot should remain in place. [Step 4.] Recover to the right foot. The right foot

Side Break (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 2 - 8

should not have moved toward the left foot on the previous step.

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position facing the reverse line of dance. [Step 1.] The right foot moves to the side a small step with partial weight taken. Keep the left hip strongly to the left. [Step 2.] Start the hips moving to the right and transfer full weight to the right foot and straighten the right leg. The left foot is allowed to almost close to the right foot with some weight still on the right foot. [Step 3.] Allow full weight to the left foot with a straight leg which will move the hips to the left. The right foot moves to the side, a small step as in step one, however the body does not move over the standing leg. This step uses a rocking action so the left foot should remain in place. [Step 4.] Recover to the left foot. The left foot should not have moved toward the right foot on the previous step.

GENERAL NOTES Steps three and four could almost be described as the Cucaracha from Rumba or Cha Cha. The Cuban motion is the icing on the cake. Without Cuban motion the dance looses its' flavor. The Cuban motion described in steps one and two is typical of the hip action in the Merengue. It is used on most side steps. For forward and back steps a more normal Cuban motion is used.

Merengue

MG – Fig 13 - 35

Side Separation

4 measure figure - count 1234 each measure Level of Difficulty 3

MAN CP - Stp sd L, cl R, sd L, tch R; sd R, cl L, sd R, tch L; sd L, cl R, sd L, cl R; sd L, cl R, sd L, cl R;

LADY CP - Stp sd R, cl L, sd R, cl L; sd R, cl L, sd R, tch L; sd L, cl R, sd L, cl R; sd L, cl R, sd L, tch R;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1 any dir sd L Nil thru out

BF

thruout

Merengue Cuban

sd L on IE of ft with delayed wgt chg = hips gently roll fwd & bk

2

2

same

cl R

-

"

-

cl R to L on IE of ft with delayed wgt - chg hips gently roll fwd & bk

3

3

-

sd L

-

"

-

sd L on IE of ft with delayed wgt chg letting hip's gently roll fwd & bk

4

4

-

tch R to L

-

"

-

cl R to L on IE of ft without wgt change

5 1 - sd R - " - sd R strt to move away from lady keeping hnds at shldr level

6

2

-

cl L

-

"

-

cl L to R

7

3

-

sd R

-

"

-

sd R touch left hnds palm to palm sd by sd

8

4

-

tch L

-

-

-

cl L to R at instep no wgt

9

1

-

sd L

-

-

-

sd L start to move twd lady

10

2

-

cl R

-

-

-

cl R to L

11

3

-

sd L

-

-

-

sd L to R

12

4

-

cl R

-

-

-

now fcg ptnr

13

1

-

sd L

-

-

-

start moving away from lady

14

2

-

cl R

-

-

-

cl R to L

15

3

-

sd L

-

-

-

sd L to R

16

4

-

cl R

-

-

-

cl R & end right hnds jnd at shldr level sd by sd.

Side Separation (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 13 - 36

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

any dir

sd R

nil

BF

thruout

Merengue Cuban

stp sd right see stp 1 for man

2

2

-

cl L

-

-

-

cl L

3

3

-

sd R

-

-

-

sd R

4

4

-

cl L

-

-

-

cl L

5

1

-

sd R

-

-

-

sd R strt to move away from ptnr raise arm's to shoulder level

6

2

-

cl L

-

-

-

cl L

7

3

-

sd R

-

-

-

sd R

8

4

-

tch L

-

-

-

tch L - left hand’s jnd palm to palm

9

1

-

sd L

-

-

-

start moving back to ptnr

10

2

-

cl R

-

-

-

cl R

11

3

-

sd L

-

-

-

sd L

12

4

-

cl R

-

-

-

cl R now fcg ptnr keeping hnds at shldr level

13

1

-

sd L

-

-

-

sd L

14

2

-

cl R

-

-

-

cl R

15

3

-

sd L

-

-

-

sd L

16

4

-

tch R

-

-

-

tch R & jn right hnds


MAN Start in a loose Closed Dance Position facing any direction (all steps should be fairly small.) (Step 1.) Step to the side on the inside edge of the Left foot with a delayed weight change. The hips will gently roll forward and back on the weight change. (Step 2.) Close the right foot to the left foot on the inside edge of the foot with a delayed weight change. The hips will gently roll forward and back on the weight change. (Step 3.) Step to the side on the inside edge of the left foot with a delayed weight change, letting the hips gently roll forward and back as a full weight is taken. (Step 4.) Close the right foot to the left foot without a weight change, keeping the left leg straight and the left hip pushed back. (Step 5.) Step to the side on the right foot (ball/flat) starting to move away from the lady, keeping the hands at shoulder level. (Step 6.) Close the left foot to the right foot (ball/flat). (Step 7.) Step to the side on the right foot (ball/flat). (Step 8.) Close the left foot to the right foot at

Side Separation (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 13 - 37

the instep without a weight change. (Step 9.) Step to the side on the left foot starting to move toward the lady. (Step 10.) Close the right foot to the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 11.) Step to the side on the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 12.) Close the right foot to the left foot (ball/flat) and end facing partner. (Step 13.) Step to the side on the left foot (ball/flat) starting to move away from the lady. (Step 14.) Close the right foot to the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 15.) Step to the side on the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 16.) Close the right foot to the left foot (ball/flat) joining the right hands at shoulder level and ending side by side.

LADY Start in a loose Closed Dance Position facing any direction. (All steps should be fairly small.) [Step 1.] Step to the side on the inside edge of the right foot with a delayed weight change. The hips will gently roll forward and back on the weight change. [Step 2.] Close the left foot to the right foot on the inside edge of the foot with a delayed weight change. The hips will gently roll forward and back on the weight change. [Step 3.] Step to the side on the inside edge of the right foot with a delayed weight change letting the hips gently roll forward and back as full weight is taken. [Step 4.] Close the left foot to the right foot (ball/flat). (Step 5.) Step to the side on the right foot (ball/flat) starting to move away from the man keeping the hands at shoulder level. (Step 6.) Close the left foot to the right foot (ball/ flat). (Step 7.) Step to the side on the right foot (ball/flat). (Step 8.) Close the left foot to the right foot without a weight change. (Step 9.) Step to the side on the left foot (ball/flat) starting to move toward the man. (Step 10.) Close the right foot to the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 11.) Step to the side on the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 12.) Close the right foot to the left foot (ball/flat) to end facing partner. (Step 13.) Step to the side on the left foot (ball/flat) starting to move away from the man. (Step 14.) Close the right foot to the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 15.) Step to the side on the left foot (ball/flat). (Step 16.) Close the right foot to the left foot at the instep without a weight change, joining the right hands at shoulder level and ending side by side.

GENERAL NOTES

Merengue

MG - Fig 11 - 41

Stair Step

1 measure 1, 2, 3, 4; Level of Difficulty 1

MAN CP fcg WALL - Fwd L, cl R, sd L, cl R;

LADY CP fcg COH - bk R, cl L, sd R, cl L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

Fwd L

nil

BF

fwd wlk

lwr to WF at end of beat

2

2

-

cl R

-

F

-

cl R almost to L ft taking full wgt at end of beat

3

3

-

sd L

-

IE B & H to WF

sd wlk

sd L on IE of B & H of ft taking full wgt to WF at end of beat

4

4

-

cl R

-

F

sd wlk

cl R ft almost to L ft taking full wgt at end of beat

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

bk R

nil

BF

bk wlk

stp bwd R on B of ft lwr to WF at end of beat

2

2

-

cl L

-

F

bk wlk

cl L ft almost to R ft taking full wgt at end of beat

3

3

-

sd R

-

IE B & H to WF

sd wlk

sd R IE of B & H of ft taking full wgt to WF at end of beat

4

4

-

cl L

-

F

sd wlk

cl L ft almost to R ft taking full wgt at end of beat

Stair Step (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 14 - 42


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position. [Step 1.] Lowering slightly on the right foot, step forward on the ball and heel of the left foot lowering into the whole foot and taking full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 2.] Bring the right foot to almost close to the left foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 3.] Step to the side on the inside edge of the ball and heel of the left foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 4.] Bring the right foot to almost close to the left foot taking full weight at the end of the beat.

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position. [Step 1.] Lowering slightly on the left foot, step back on the ball and heel of the right foot lowering into the whole foot and taking full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 2.] Bring the left foot to almost close to the right foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 3.] Step to the side on the inside edge of the ball and heel of the right foot taking full weight at the end of the beat. [Step 4.] Bring the left foot to almost close to the right foot, taking full weight at the end of the beat.

GENERAL NOTES

The Stair Steps may be continued by repeating steps 1 - 4 as steps 5 - 8. Figure may be done from any facing position.

Merengue

MG - Fig 10 - 23

Swivel Point Freeze


MAN CP WALL - bk L, rec R, pt L, freeze (hold) ;

LADY CP COH - bk R, rec L, pt R, freeze (hold) ;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

bk L

1\4

BF

Cuban

swvl LF stp bk L. (bk brk) (a rk stp).

2

2

LOD

rec R

-

-

-

rec RF to fc ptnr & WALL in CP.

3

3

WALL

pt L

nil

T pt

lowering

lwr into right knee & extend left leg to sd with I E of T tchng fl.

4

4

-

hold

-

T pt

freeze

slt sway left.

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

bk R

1\4

BF

Cuban

swvl RF stp bk R (bk brk) (a rk stp).

2

2

LOD

rec L

-

-

-

trn LF rec L to fc ptnr & COH.

3

3

COH

pt L

nil

T pt

lowering

lwr into left knee & extend right leg to side with I E of T tchng fl.

4

4

-

hold

-

T pt

freeze

slt sway right.


MAN Start in a Closed Dance Position. [Step 1.] Turning to the left on the right foot, step back on the left foot to a Half-Open Dance Position. Lead hands may remain joined or released and extended to the side. [Step 2.] Recover forward on the right foot turning to the right to face the partner in a Closed Position and brush the left foot to the right foot. [Step 3.] Lowering slightly into the right leg, point left foot to the side with a slight sway to the left, and both look to the line of dance. [Step 4.] Freeze (hold).

Swivel Point Freeze (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 10 - 24

LADY Start in a Closed Dance Position. [Step 1.] Turning to the right on the left foot, step back on the right foot to a Half-Open Dance Position. Lead hands may remain joined or released and extend to the side. {Step 2.] Recover forward on the left foot turning to the left to face partner in a Closed Position, and brush the right foot to the left foot. [Step 3.] Lowering slightly into the left leg, point the right foot to the side with a slight sway to the right, and both look to the line of dance. [Step 4.] Freeze (hold).

GENERAL NOTES

May be preceded with an Open Break, Side Basic, or Separation. May be repeated as many times as you wish.

Merengue

MG - Fig 25 - 73

Tunnel (Following 4 steps of separation) 4 measures - 1234 1234 1234 1234 Level of Difficulty 8

MAN OP fcg lady & Wall with jnd R hnds over jnd L hnds - (Hnds remain jnd for 3 meas) stp fwd XLIFR trng RF raising R hnds above head with L hnds held low ldng lady fwd, cont trng comp a 2 RF trn stpng fwd on the R undr jnd raised R hnds to fc COH ldng lady to R sd, sml stp sd L lwrng & ext R arm at chest level to R sd with L hnds low & bhnd bk trng lady LF to fcg pos, cl R to L ldng lady fwd to duck under raised R arm to a R sd by sd pos; sml stp fwd L lwrng the jnd R hnds and raising & ext the L arm to the sd ldng lady bhnd bk twd L sd, rec bk R in pl ldng lady bhnd the bk to L sd pos with L arms raised & R hnds low bhnd bk, sml stp bk L ldng lady to bk under arched raised jnd L arms to end in fcg Sd by Sd pos, rec fwd R in pl ldng lady fwd undr arched raised jnd L arms; cl L to R ldng lady bhnd the bk twd the R sd, stp in pl R ldng lady bhnd bk to R sd with R hnds raised & ext to the sd & L hnds low bhnd bk, stp in pl L ldng lady to bk under arched R arms to fcg pos on R sd, stp sd R rel jnd hnds & comm to blend to CP; sml stp sd L in CP, cl R to L, stp sd L, cl R to L;

LADY OP fcg man & COH with jnd R hnds over jnd L hnds - (Hnds remain jnd for 3 meas) stp fwd R raising R hnds above man’s head & lag L hnds, fwd L with L hnds held low as man trns RF undr raised R hnds, fwd R swvlg 2 LF to fc man & WALL in R Sd by Sd pos, fwd L lwrng & ducking btw raised R hnds & lwr L hnds to a R Sd by Sd pos with both arms XIF of chest; maint arms XIF of chest & stp diag fwd R to bk to bk pos, maint arms XIF of chest & XLIBR twd M’s L sd, stp bk & sd R bkg undr L arms to end in L Sd by Sd pos fcg man & WALL, rec fwd L twd man ducking undr L arms to a L Sd by Sd pos with both arms XIF of chest; maint both arms XIF of chest & XRIFL mvng in Bk to Bk pos twd M’s R sd, maint arms XIF of chest & stp sd L a long stp to almost R Sd by Sd pos, stp bk R undr raised R arms & rise to a R Sd by Sd pos fcg man with arms XIF, cl L to R rel jnd hnds & comm to blend to CP; sml stp sd L in CP, cl R to L, stp sd L, cl R to L;

Tunnel (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 25 - 74

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1 WALL

fwd

XLIFR

BF

Cuban motion

(main jnd R & jnd L hnds over 3 meas) raise R hnds above head with L hnds hld low

2

2

RLOD

fwd R

2 RF over 2 steps

BF

-

pass undr raised R hnds to R Sd by Sd pos fcg lady - lwr & ext R arm to sd - L hnds low & bhnd bk

3

3

COH

sd L

nil

BF

-

raise jnd R arms to form slt arch, maint L hnds low bhnd bk - ld lady to trn LF

4

4

-

cl R to L

-

BF

-

ld lady to duck undr jnd raised R arms

5

1

-

fwd L sml stp

-

BF

-

ld lady bhnd bk twd L sd, ext jnd L arm to sd with R hnds held low bhnd bk

6

2

-

rec R in

pl

-

BF

-

raise L arms to form slt arch, ld lady to L sd

7

3

-

stp in pl

L

-

BF

-

ld lady to bk undr jnd L arms to fcg pos - look at lady over L shldr

8

4

-

stp in pl

R

-

BF

-

ld W fwd to duck undr L arms to L Sid by Sd pos

9

1

-

bk L

-

BF

-

ld lady bhnd bk twd R sd

10

2

-

rec R

-

BF

-

raise R arms to form slt arch with L hnds low bhnd bk - ld lady to R sd

11

3

-

in pl L

-

BF

-

ld lady to bk undr arched jnd R. arms to fcg pos

12

4

-

sd R

-

BF

-

rel jnd hnds comm blend to CP

13

1

-

sd L

-

BF

-

14

2

-

cl R

-

BF

-

15

3

-

sd L

-

BF

-

16

4

-

cl R

-

BF

-

in CP trvl twd RLOD fcg COH


MG - Fig 25 - 75

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH fwd R

nil

BF

Cuban Motion

(maint jnd R & jnd L hnds over 3 meas) raise R hnds above head with L hnds held low

2

2

-

fwd L

-

BF

-

end in R Sd by Sd pos

3

3

WALL

fwd R

2 LF

B

-

swvl LF comm to duck undr R hnds

4

4

-

fwd L

nil

BF

-

fwd L undr man’s R arm end with both arms XIF

5

1

-

sd R

-

BF

-

pass bhnd man’s bk twd man’s L sd

6

2

-

XLIFR

-

BF

-

end in L Sd by Sd pos

7

3

-

bk R

-

BF

-

bk undr man’s raised L arm to fcg L Sd by Sd pos

8

4

-

rec fwd

L

-

BF

-

duck undr man’s raised L arm

9

1

-

XRIBL

-

BF

-

maint both arms XIF of chest trvng twd man’s R sd

10

2

-

sd L

long stp

-

BF

- mv bhnd M’s bk to R sd

11

3

-

bk R

-

BF

-

bk undr man’s raised R arm

12

4

-

bk L

-

BF

-

rel jnd hnds comm to blend to CP

13

1

-

sd R

-

BF

-

14

2

-

cl L

-

BF

-

15

3

-

sd R

-

BF

-

16

4

-

cl L

-

BF

-

in CP travel twd RLOD fcg WALL


MAN Start in Open Position facing lady and WALL with joined right hands crossed over joined left hands. (Hands remain joined throughout first three measures) [Step 1.] Raising the right hands and holding left hands low, turn right 1/4 stepping forward left crossing in front of the right foot. [Step 2.] Continue turning right 1/4 to face COH stepping forward on the right foot passing under raised right hands. End in a Right Side by Side position with the left hands low behind back and the right arm extended to the side and in front of lady at chest level. [Step 3.] Step side left a small step raising the right arms to form an arch. [Step 4.] Close the right foot to the left leading the lady forward to duck under the arch of the


MG - Fig 25 - 76

raised right arms. [Step 5.] Step forward on the left foot a small step lowering the right hands, raising and extending the left arm to the side, leading the lady behind the back toward the left side. [Step 6.] Recover on the right foot leading lady behind the back to end in a back to back position on the left side. The left arms are raised and extended to the side with the right hands low and behind the back. [Step 7.] Step back a small step on the left raising left arms to form an arch. Lead lady to back under raised arms to end facing man in front in a left side by side position. Look left at the lady on the end of step. [Step 8.] Recover forward in place on the right foot leading lady forward under arched left arms. [Step 9.] Close left foot to right foot leading lady behind the back toward the right side. [Step 10.] Step in place on the right foot leading lady to the right side with left hands low behind the back and the right arms extended to the side at chest level in front of lady. [Step 11.] Step in place on the left foot leading lady to step backward under extended raised right arms to a facing right side by side position. [Step 12.] Step in place on the right foot releasing joined hands and start to blend to closed position. [Step 13.] Step side on the left foot a small step in closed position. [Step 14.] Close the right foot to left foot. [Step 15.] Step side on the left foot. [Step 16.] Close the right foot to the left foot.

LADY Start in Open Position facing man and COH with joined right hands crossed over joined left hands. (Hands remain joined throughout first three measures) [Step 1.] Step forward right raising the right hands above man’s head and lowering left hands as man turns right. [Step 2.] Step forward on left foot as man continues to turn right under raised right hands. End in Side by Side position on man’s right side with the left hands low & behind man’s back and the right hands in front at chest level. [Step 3.] Step forward on the left foot swiveling left face 2 and bending at the waist preparing to duck and pass under the raised right arms. [Step 4.] Step forward on the left foot ducking under man’s right arm with both arms crossing in front of chest. (Maintain the crossed arms over chest position on steps 5 and 6.) [Step 5.] Step diagonally forward in back of man. [Step 6.] Cross the left foot behind the right foot moving to man’s left side. [Step 7.] Passing under man’s raised left arm, step back and side on the right foot checking with both arms extended and looking at man. [Step 8] Recover forward on the left foot passing under man’s raised left arm with both arms crossed in front of chest. (Maintain the crossed arm over chest position on steps 9 and 10.) [Step 9.] Cross the right foot in front of the left foot moving toward man’s right side in back of man. [Step 10.] Take a long side step on the left foot passing behind man’s right side. [Step 11.] Step backward on right foot bending at the waist to pass under man’s raised right arm. [Step 12.] Release joined hands as left foot steps back checking with body straightening and preparing to go to closed position. Step 13.] Step side on the right foot blending to closed position facing WALL [Step 14.] Close the left foot to right foot. [Step 15.] Step side on the right foot. [Step 16.] Close the left foot to the right foot.

GENERAL NOTES

Use foot, leg and hip Technique as described in the Introduction of the Merengue.

Merengue

MG - Fig 20 - 59

Wrap ( following 1234 of separation ) 1 measure - 1234 Level of Difficulty 4

MAN OP dbl handhold extended arms fcg lady & WALL- fwd L, fwd R, cl L, in Pl R;

LADY OP dbl handhold extended arms fcg man & COH - fwd R, fwd L comm LF trn, cont LF trn sd & fwd R, bk L;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

WALL

fwd L sml stp

nil

BF

mostly F

fwd wlk

lead lady to stp fwd

2

2

-

fwd R

-

-

-

raise jnd ld hnds & ld lady to strt LF trn maint jnd right hnds low

3

3

-

cl L to R

-

-

in pl

cl L to R cont to ld lady to trn LF

4

4

-

in pl R

-

-

-

end in wrap pos lady on right sd

LADY

Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

1

COH

fwd R

nil

BF

mostly F

fwd wlk

fwd R twd man

2

2

fwd L

-

-

3

3

sd & fwd R

-

-

4

4

COH to

WALL

cl L to R

2 LF trn ovr 3 stps

-

-

strt LF trn undr jnd left/right hnds with jnd right/left hnds low - end in wrap pos to man’s right sd

Wrap (continued) Merengue

MG - Fig 20 - 60


MAN (after 1 2 3 4 of separation) Start in an Open Facing Position, facing partner with arms extended at waist level and all hands joined. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot, leading the lady to step forward. [Step 2.] Step forward on the right foot, raising the joined lead hands, while lowering the joined trailing hands, and lead the lady to start a left underarm turn. [Step 3.] Close the left foot to the right foot as the lady continues turning left. [Step 4.] Step on the right foot in place bringing the joined lead hands down and in front of the lady. The lady will end in a wrapped position on the man’s right side with the lead hands joined in front and on top. The man’s right arm will be around the lady’s back with her left hand in his right.

LADY (after 1 2 3 4 of separation) Start in an Open Facing Position, facing partner with arms extended at waist level and all hands joined. [Step 1.] Step forward on the right foot. [Step 2.] Step forward on the left foot starting a left turn under the joined lead hands. (Step 3.) Continue to turn left stepping forward and side on the right foot. [Step 4.] Close the left foot to the right foot bringing the joined lead hands down in front of the body ending in a wrapped position facing the wall. Lady will end on the man’s right side with the lead hands joined in front. Lady’s left arm will be across her body and under her right arm with her left hand in the man’s right.

GENERAL NOTES

Keep hands joined throughout figure

introduction to merengue - icbdaicbda.com/tech-manual/full_mg.pdfmerengue mg - intro - 1...

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