MAMBO (AMERICAN)

1. Organizer's music in preliminaries and semi-final, Organizer's music OR music of the dancers' choice in the final.

2. Length of Exhibition: In all rounds except the final, the length of performance should be 1 ½ minutes long, to conform to the end of the musical phrase. In the final round, the couple may use music of their choice or the Organizer's music, which must be 2 minutes of music to the end of the musical phrase, but must not exceed 2minutes 15 seconds

3. Tempo: 45 - 47 bars per minute (180 - 188 beats per minute). Dancers must break on the 2nd beat of the bar.

4. Characteristics and Movement: Mambo originated as a street dance, and is a dance in which the man and woman challenge each other for control / strength / dominance. The woman is very strong and can be just as dominating as the man. The man is trying to remain in control and impress the woman with his physical ability and speed. Steps and movements come out of the original Latin American dance styles. It is very important that the movements, step combinations and ‘poses' be in perfect harmony with the rhythm and character of music throughout the dance. Interesting rhythms, twisty turns and wraps are characteristic of the dance.

5. Lifts: Not permitted.

6. In preliminary and in the semi-final rounds, two or three couples will dance at the same time, but this is determined by the size of the dance floor. In the final round, each couple performs alone.

7. In every round including the final, all couples will dance an opening minute and a final 1 minute together.