learning merengue

lei · #1 10-23-2003, 05:34 PM

I am a Spanish teacher in the United States. I would like to come to the DR in July of 2004. I would like to attend the Merengue festival. Where is it? I would also like to learn how to play and dance the Merengue, so I can incorporate this part of the DR culture into my classroom. I would like to experience the DR for what it really is and not stay at a resort. If you could help me find a place to stay for myself and family (6 in all) and a local artist or place who would teach me about the music and dance of the Dominican Republic, I would really appreciate it. Thank you.
Lei

tondra · #2 10-24-2003, 12:58 AM

Check around at your local dance studios. I was surprised to find one about 25 minutes from where I live in Michigan. The basics of merengue are amazingly easy to learn. A great cardio-vascular workout for someone who is 50.

mkohn · #3 10-24-2003, 11:38 AM

In my experience, merengue in the American Ballroom Dancing style is different from merengue in the DR, and even Puerto Rico. It would be best to learn from a Dominican in the DR.
mk