Paso Doble is a passionate and dramatic partner dance that is rooted in Spanish culture. It is directly inspired by the movements and drama of bullfighting and portrays the interaction between a matador (the leader) and a cape (the follower) as they work in tandem to gain victory over the bull. The dance is characterized by powerful, dramatic movements, sharp footwork, and intricate choreography. More than any other dance, Paso Double asks the dancers to radiate a commanding, confident presence throughout the entirety of their time on the floor. After all, Paso Doble is not simply a dance, but also a cultural expression of Spain's rich history and heritage, and proper technique honors the storytelling archetypes of Spanish culture through the two roles. Dancers often wear costumes that resemble traditional Spanish bullfighting attire, adding to the dramatic flair of the dance.
Music
Paso Doble is typically danced to a distinctive style of music characterized by its strong, march-like rhythm. It is often played at a brisk tempo, and features prominent brass instruments, such as trumpets and horns, which contribute to the bold and dramatic feel of the dance. The most famous and commonly used song for Paso Doble is “España cañí”, composed by Pascual Marquina Narro in 1923.
Venues
You can expect to see or dance Paso Doble at various venues and events. It is in the Latin family, and a prominent dance style in ballroom dance competitions. Ballroom dance studios offer Paso Doble lessons for those interested in learning and performing the dance. Additionally, Paso Doble is sometimes showcased in cultural events, Spanish festivals, and themed dance performances, where its dramatic flair can be fully appreciated.