"OK, move your hips now, no shoulders! One, two, three, four."

These chants rang out from Irazu Coffee at El Centro de Espanol's Latin dance class as people gathered to learn how to dance the bachata, merengue and salsa. About 50 people participated on Nov. 18, ranging from experienced dancers gliding across the floor to beginners who stumbled over the most basic steps. The varying levels of skill made cooperation a must, with the experienced dancers helping out everyone else.

The event highlighted the different types of dancing that are represented throughout Latin America. El Centro de Espanol uses dance to spread Hispanic culture here at Elon University.

"We have some dance things like this and sometimes Elon 101 classes come to take classes," said Raquel Cortes, assistant director of El Centro. "We also have mini dance classes during open houses."

The event brought students from all across the globe together to experience Latin American culture, a culture where dancing is highly valued. Cortes spoke of the importance of dance in the culture.

"I am not a big dancer but have grown to love it," she said. "Now I learned it, and when I go to Latin America I can use it to socialize with the people and be a part of the culture."

Junior Monica Cuza, from Panama, said dance is a way of expressing herself.

Cuza said she has been using dance as therapy for many years.

"I danced throughout my high school years," she said. "I don't know I just love to dance. I guess it's like my therapy. I just dance whenever music is on."

Sophomore Ashley Bunting and junior Austin Rhoads partook in the lessons, but it was not their first time.

They heard about the event through their involvement in El Centro and having an interest in learning the culture.

"We just thought it would be fun," Bunting said.

Everyone learned all three dances, but salsa and merengue seemed to be the most popular.

"Salsa is more interesting and exciting," Rhoads said.

Cuza said she liked both.

"I prefer salsa and merengue because the music is more upbeat," she said.

After the lessons, the after party began. Festive music, more and more dancing and singing rounded out a long evening of fiesta. As the event wound down, it was clear Irazu had gotten in touch with its Latin roots.