Samba is a lively, rhythmical dance of Brazilian origin. The Samba music rhythm has been danced in Brazil since its inception in the late 19th century. There is actually a set of dances, rather than a single dance, that define the Samba dancing scene in Brazil; thus, no one dance can be claimed with certainty as the "original" Samba style. Another major stream of the Samba dance besides the Brazilian Samba dancing styles is Ballroom Samba which differs significantly.

Samba dancing is also popular among young girls. The basic movement involves a straight body and a bending of one knee at a time. The feet move very slightly - only a few inches at a time. The dance simply follows the beat of the music and can go from average pace to very fast. Men dance with the whole foot on the ground while women, often wearing heels, dance just on the balls of the foot. The Samba is the dance one sees in the Brazilian Carnival parades and in other Samba carnivals all over the world.

Gemini Ballroom Academy is Reno's newest Ballroom, Latin, Swing, Salsa, Social and Partnership dance school offering dance lessons to adults, teens, and children of all levels. Gemini Ballroom offers private or group lessons as well as specialty workshops, drop-in classes and social dance parties.

Your first private lesson at Gemini Ballroom is always free. All you have to do is, call us at (775) 32-DANCE (775-323-2623) or email geminiballroom@gmail.com to schedule your complimentary private lesson. You will receive a 25 minute private lesson, followed by time to go over the calendar (to recommend which classes would be best for you) and to answer any questions you may have.

Gemini Ballroom is located at 2920 Mill Street and the owners, Vanessa & Mario Ornelas, are also dance teachers. For more information, visit www.geminiballroom.com.