The Samba

Samba is the national dance of Brazil. Many versions of this dance, from Baion (pronounced: Bajao) to Marcha, are danced at the carnival in Rio. To achieve the true character of the Samba, a dancer must give it a flirtatious and exuberant interpretation.

Before 1914, the dance was known under a Brazilian name "Maxixe". The first attempts of introducing Samba to European ballrooms are dated 1923-24, but it wasn't until after World War II that the Samba became a popular dance in Europe.

How routines should look:

It's a party dance - so have some fun with it!

The dance should involve lots of bounce - time to wiggle your hips and shake your booty.

It's not as clipped and mannered as other Latin dances and involves the couple dancing in unison.

Routines should include:

The Volta - the crossing over of the feet. This move can also be done on the spot, when they are known as Spot Voltas.

The Roll - this is when the two dancers' bodies are brought close together and they make a rotating motion.