Paso Doble is a dramatic, intense, passionate dance that is one of the most theatrical of the Latin Ballroom dances and great fun to learn. The Paso Doble dance is a Spanish dance that became popular in the United States in the 1930's. The Paso Doble dance is based on the Spanish bullfight where the man usually portrays the matador(bullfighter) and the lady is his cape. The lady can also portray the bull. There is a strong Flamenco influence in the Paso Doble dance, expressing both pride, passion and arrogance. You can see a sample of Paso Doble dancing in the Paso Doble video on this page.
The Paso Doble is a progressive dance that is danced around the dance floor. This dance uses strong, precise, forward, walking steps with heel leads, there is a marching feeling to the steps. Artistic hand movements similar to the expressive hand movements seen in Flamenco dance are used. There are many dramatic, classic matador poses that synchronize with the music. The head and chest are held high and proud as if taking in a deep breath and holding it.
Paso Doble dance music is written in 2/4 time and is counted 1 2,1 2 with one step danced to each beat of music. Two other ways of counting are 1 2 3 4, 1 2 3 4 and 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8. The Paso Doble dance is in the International Style Latin competition dance program and is also danced in shows. The American Style Rhythm competition dance program does not include the Paso Doble dance. Again, you can see a demonstration of the Paso Doble dance in the Paso Doble video on this page.