Difference Between Bachata and Sensual Bachata
Bachata can be categorized into Dominican Bachata, referencing its place of birth, Dominican Republican, Modern Bachata and Sensual Bachata. Let me explain the similarities and differences between Dominican Bachata, Modern Bachata and Sensual Bachata.
Dominican Bachata
Dominican Bachata is known for fast footwork, more complicated patterns, circular movement, and exciting shines. Shines are brief solo performances within a song where dancers show off their best moves before going back to partner work. The term “shine” is used in Salsa, but we can also use it in Bachata.
Modern Bachata
Modern Bachata is the most common style in North America, especially in clubs. Modern Bachata is known for dancing in a linear pattern, soft turns, arm styling and dips.
Sensual Bachata
Sensual Bachata is a lot more intimate. It involves closer interactions, where the pelvis and hips are connected. It involves neck rolls, where the leader places his hand on the follower’s neck and includes pronounced hip rolls.
Sensual Bachata is Bachata, and there are fun, cool, exciting, and intimate ways to dance it. But ultimately, Sensual Bachata is a more intimate version of Modern Bachata. My advice is to be respectful of your partner and thoughtful enough to create a safe space where you get to both explore and connect on a deeper level.
Bachata at Toronto Dance Salsa
At our school, we teach Modern Bachata because I believe that when you have a great connection with someone, and you’re dancing with them sensuality will naturally come out. The music and connection create a sense of trust and intimacy that grows between you and your partner. You feel as if time slows down, and you feel ready to use more sensual moves.
During classes and at our social parties called “Salsa Loves Bachata,” I always highlight that Sensual Bachata does require a more intimate connection so should be done with someone you feel comfortable with. There are some moves that some people will not feel comfortable doing and both leaders and followers have to be respectful of that. We explore Sensual Bachata in Level 4 classes at Toronto Dance Salsa. I hope someday I get the chance to be your instructor and show you how to dance Sensual Bachata in a fun, respectful, safe, and intimate way.
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