Rueda de Casino: Master the Essential Moves for Parisian Salsa Nights
In Paris, the Rueda de Casino is the heart and soul of Cuban salsa nights. Whether at the Balajo or along the Quais de Seine, it's common for a "Cantante" (the caller) to kick off a giant circle in the middle of the dance floor.
So you don't end up standing on the sidelines, here are the 10 fundamental moves that every Cuban salsa dancer in Paris absolutely needs to know in 2026.
1. Transition moves (The foundation)
- Dame (or Dile que no): The basic move for switching partners.
- Enchufla: The leader turns the follower under his arm to swap places.
- Adios con la Hermana: An enchufla followed by an immediate partner change.
2. The timeless classics
These moves are called in 99% of Parisian Ruedas:
| Move Name | Quick Description |
|---|---|
| Sombrero | A movement where the hands end up behind the neck like a hat. |
| Setenta (70) | A series of complex turns ending with a Dile que no. |
| Balsero | A fluid move evoking the motion of the waves. |
| Evelyn | An elegant variation, hugely popular in the dance schools of the 11th arrondissement. |
3. The Cantante's calls (The Caller)
In a Rueda, the caller can also announce collective actions:
- Un Tarro: Everyone switches partners while clapping their hands.
- Echeverria: Everyone moves toward the center of the circle.
- Foto: Everyone freezes to strike a pose facing the center!
Where to learn the Rueda de Casino in Paris?
If you're a beginner, several collectives offer free intro sessions before the parties. It's the best way to memorize the names of the moves without any pressure.
Find Rueda classes and intro sessions in our dedicated section:
