The History of Cuban Salsa: From Havana Streets to Global Dance Floors

Cuban salsa, also known as Casino, has a rich history rooted in the vibrant culture of Cuba. Unlike the linear styles often seen in LA or New York, Cuban salsa is circular, social, and deeply connected to the rhythms of Afro-Cuban music. Its origins trace back to the son cubano, a fusion of Spanish guitar traditions and African percussion rhythms, which created the backbone for modern salsa.

Over the decades, Cuban salsa absorbed influences from rumba, cha-cha-cha, and mambo, evolving into a dynamic social dance. This style emphasizes partner connection, improvisation, and musical expression, allowing dancers to interpret the music creatively while maintaining the community energy of the dance floor. One of its most distinctive features is Rueda de Casino, a group circle dance where partners swap and follow calls, creating an exhilarating and social experience.

As Cuban communities migrated globally, their dance and music traveled with them, influencing salsa styles worldwide. Today, Cuban salsa is celebrated internationally for its playfulness, musicality, and inclusivity, making it both a social and performance art. In every class or social night, dancers are not just learning steps, they are connecting with a rich cultural heritage and sharing in a joyful, communal experience.