Ok, for a 50 somethins midwesterner, What is Punta dancing-can an old, non rhymic learn?

With rum, anyone can learn anything.

LOL @ Kathryn

Well Jay.....Punta is a VERY rythmic dance. It involves mostly the knees and the butt.
While I got plenty of butt.....my knees ain't so great.....LOL

I'm 40.....and consider myself to have a fair amount of rhythm.....so I've tried it before.

You start by putting on some punta music of course.....then stick out your butt.......feet hips width apart......knees slightly bent.....NOW....

Shuffle those feet in short forward steps.....while at the same time swinging your butt around in a circular motion.

Kind of like rubbing your tummy and patting your head at the same time....LOL

Takes not only rhythm....but lots of coordination......or as Kathryn says.....lots-o-rum.....LOL

In the Southern parts of Belize.....during festival times....especially Garifuna Settlement celebration.....the people will do this dance all night long around a fire.....for hours...even days!!!

Only thing I've ever accomplished trying to do this fool dance is throwing my lower back out and making my knees sore as hell....LOL

Guess you really can't teach an old....um...dog....new tricks!

Have Fun!

I suggest a very intimate partner. It's a very seductive dance. My husband and I watched the locals for about an hour. It was pure joy from the top of their heads to the tips of their toes. The music is intoxicating, and even if you don't normally dance, you will be up and moving before you know it. Lured in by the beat, and the other dancers, you can't help yourself. My husband NEVER dances, and he danced the night away with me. It was HEAVEN. We're in our mid 40's, so you should have no problem. Even brought home some CD's. They're a hit at our parties!!!! Have fun.
Debbie

Seen it. Looks like a seizure to great music.

Ah, no thanks. Sounds like getting beat with a baseball bat for two hours would be a better option.

Not near enough Bombay Blue and vodka on the island to make that work.

Oh thanks daughters, now Mom needs hip and knee joint replacements. "ouch"
Now I have to sit with Choochoo, sipping Blue.

Anyone can do it. Just get sucked in to the music and watch the other people. I also agree the right partner is very important. Punta dancing is extremely sensual. One of my fondest memories of Belize is the punta dancing!

[This message has been edited by Terri (edited 11-07-2000).]

Chloe,
Not to worry..our usual traveling companions include an orthopedic surgeon, a mental health professional, an attorney and a substance abuse counselor.

No kidding.

LOL at CHOO CHOO!!!
Sounds like the perfect company to bring along. Just leave your accountant at home. You're on vacation!!!!!

Mom, you are a hot tamale and a gorgeous woman. I see no health problems what so ever that would hold you back from the ultimate dance. Your husband (Dad?) would LOVE it. He'd be chasing you around the island for the rest of your vacation!!!
Debbie

CHOOCHOO....you must introduce me!
It would be nice to chew the fat with these folks......no shop talk.....we just share the same views usually. Would be fun