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What is Rueda de Casino and why is it so addictive?
If partner salsa is a conversation, then Rueda de Casino is a party. A circle of couples dancing in sync, executing moves in unison while a "cantante" (caller) shouts out the commands.
How does it work?
- Couples form a circle (the rueda)
- A cantante calls out the moves
- Everyone executes the same move at the same time
- Many moves involve partner switches — you never know who you'll end up with!
Origin: Cuba, 1950s
Rueda was born in the clubs of Havana in the 1950s, especially at the Casino Deportivo (hence the name "Casino"). Young Cubans invented moves with creative and sometimes humorous names.
Basic moves you'll learn first
| Move | What happens |
|---|---|
| Dile que no | Basic side switch |
| Enchúfala | The leader enters the centre and exits with the next couple |
| Dame | Partner switch (the essence of rueda) |
| VacÃlala | The follower gets to shine |
| Sombrero | The follower passes under the arm |
| Setenta | Complex turn with a spin for both |
Why is it so addictive?
- Maximum social — you dance with everyone, not just your partner
- Requires attention — no autopilot here
- It's fun — mistakes create laughter, not stress
- It builds community — after a rueda, everyone's friends
Rueda at Cubania
At Cubania, Rueda is our speciality. Our classes range from basic moves to advanced combinations. And every month we host open ruedas where beginners and advanced dancers dance together.
Rueda can't be explained, it has to be experienced. Come try it.