Cuban casino, commonly called Cuban salsa, is one of the best-known Latin dances in the world.
Through the dance, the rich cultural expression of Cuba comes through: its history, its traditions, and its Spanish and African origins.
Born in the 1950s, this dance, which can be danced alone or with a partner, portrays moments of life and relationships between men and women, to music dealing with the same themes and often reflecting the joyful spirit and resilience of the Cuban people.
In this article, dive into the history of Casino, explore its distinctive music and influences, and discover how this dance continues to captivate dancers of all ages around the world.
Origins and history
Casino, which became “salsa”, was born in the 1950s in Cuba. Its name comes from the social clubs called “casinos” where middle-class people gathered to socialise, dance and enjoy music.
At the time, Son Cubano, a slower and more graceful popular music genre, provided the backdrop for these gatherings.
However, contrary to popular belief, Casino didn’t emerge from the luxurious Havana casinos frequented by the elite, but from more modest clubs accessible to the general population. Cuban Casino is a popular, people’s dance.
It was the Americans who gave Cuban casino the name “salsa”, looking for a commercial name to spread this Latin dance around the world. Fun fact: salsa almost ended up being called “ketchup”… no comment!
Casino music
Casino is mainly danced to Salsa or Timba rhythms, although its origins are closely linked to Son Cubano.
Over time, Casino music incorporated elements of jazz, mambo and other Afro-Cuban influences, creating a unique and catchy sound. Typical instruments include congas, bongos, bass, piano and brass, all helping to create a rhythmic, energetic melody perfect for dancing.
Here is a Spotify Cuban salsa playlist featuring songs in all kinds of rhythms:
Characteristics of the dance
Casino is characterised by its fluidity, energy and playfulness.
Unlike other forms of Latin dance such as Puerto Rican salsa, which is danced in a line, Cuban salsa Casino is danced in a circular way, as a couple in free dancing or in a group in what is called a “rueda” or wheel.
In Rueda de Casino, several couples dance in a circle, performing coordinated figures called out by a “madre”, a “cantante” or a leader.
Cultural influences
Cuba’s African and Spanish roots have deeply influenced Casino.
The fluid movements, the grounded dancing and the complex rhythms reflect the African heritage, while the structure and elegance of the dance bear witness to the Spanish influence.
Moreover, with the rise of tourism and cultural exchange, Casino has incorporated elements of popular international dances, constantly evolving while staying true to its Cuban origins – even though traditional Casino tends to “disappear” in favour of very showy moves.
Evolution and worldwide popularity
In the 1970s and 1980s, Cuban Casino grew in popularity outside Cuba, notably in Europe and North America.
The Cuban Revolution of 1959 and the subsequent US embargo, however, slowed its international expansion.
Despite this, the dance kept thriving in Cuba and eventually enjoyed a worldwide revival with the end of the Cold War.
You can find many dance schools offering a free Cuban salsa trial class, or enjoy quality online dance courses from home.
Salsa, Cuban casino: much more than a Cuban dance
Cuban Casino isn’t just a dance: it’s a symbol of Cuba’s cultural richness and history – the Cuban soul!
Combining music, movement and conviviality, it offers a window onto that Cuban soul, while continuing to evolve and adapt to new influences.
Whether in the lively streets of Havana or in dance studios around the world, Casino remains a living celebration of the joy and passion that characterise Cuban culture.
