On a recent Friday night, Murphy and Davis tried out El Bembe, a new night of salsa dancing at the Hernandez center in Villa Victoria that features lessons and a live band. Instructor Seemore Johnson, clad in a blue silk shirt and dark slacks and equipped with a headset-style microphone, took delight in shaking his hips to the hypnotic, rapid beat. Soon 50 pairs of hips followed Johnson's slender frame through the sensuous steps - some with more sensuous results than others. Learning salsa dancing is not as easy as taking up the box step or waltz. A sense of rhythm is important, as is coordination and an ability to count the beat.
Most people are able to pick up at least the basic steps.
Lessons generally start an hour before dancing. After learning a few steps, you're let loose. To dance on your own. Teachers roam the dance floor throughout the night, answering questions and occasionally cutting in to help with moves. It's good to shop around first for a style that's comfortable.