The New York is a very popular figure in basic Cha Cha. In the more advanced levels, you will still see many variations of this figure from the Three Cha Chas in side-by-side position to the Split Cuban Breaks, and more.
New Yorks are breaks which alternate from left to right side-by-side position by way of the Chasse, using the basic rhythm 2, 3, 4&1. Both left and right foot break forward.
Although the figure may begin in closed position or with a two-hand hold, it will be necessary to release the hand that is farther away from your partner as you turn to side-by-side position. The free arm may then extend outward (as shown in video clip), or it may be held closer to the body when space is limited.
As tempting as it is to thrust the joined-hand through as you turn to side-by-side position, try to avoid this, as it diminishes the connection. The best position for the joined hand is hip-level.
Note when watching the video that the dancers remain facing each other until the very end of the chasse.
STEP#
COUNT
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
Begin
Open facing position.
Prep
1
Right foot side.
Release right hand hold on end of prep step.
1
2
Left foot forward in side-by-side position.
1/4 turn to right between prep step and 1.
2
3
Transfer weight to right foot.
Begin to turn left.
3-5
4&1
Facing partner, chasse to left, LRL.
1/4 turn to left between 2-3. Regain right hand hold on 3, and then release left hand hold on end of 5.
6
2
Right foot forward in side-by-side position.
1/4 turn to left between 5-6.
7
3
Transfer weight to left foot.
Begin to turn right.
8-10
4&1
Facing partner, chasse to right, RLR.
1/4 turn to right between 7-8. regain left hand hold on end of 8. End in open-facing position, 2-hand hold.
STEP#
COUNT
DESCRIPTION
NOTES
Begin
Open facing position.
Prep
1
Left foot side.
Release left hand hold on end of prep step.
1
2
Right foot forward in side-by-side position.
1/4 turn to left between prep step and 1.
2
3
Transfer weight to left foot.
Begin to turn right.
3-5
4&1
Facing partner, chasse to right, RLR.
1/4 turn to right between 2-3. Regain left hand hold on 3, and then release right hand hold on end of 5.
6
2
Left foot forward in side-by-side position.
1/4 turn to right between 5-6.
7
3
Transfer weight to right foot.
Begin to turn left.
8-10
4&1
Facing partner, chasse to left, LRL.
1/4 turn to left between 7-8. regain right hand hold on end of 8. End in open-facing position, 2-hand hold.
The New York is a very popular figure in basic Cha Cha. In the more advanced levels, you will still see many variations of this figure from the Three Cha Chas in side-by-side position to the Split Cuban Breaks, and more.