Opening Out to Right and Left
Rumba Opening Out to Right and Left
This is a Bronze Level figure. This online reference gives a detailed description of the different variation of the dance steps, including timing, and movement; a list of figures that may precede or follow the pattern; and videos providing instruction and demonstration of the figure, techniques and practice routines that include it.
Leader
Start in Closed Position.
2: LF to side, part weight | No turn
It's a "lighter" lead to turn Lady 90' in this figure (vs. a much stronger turning lead in Closed Hip Twist.) Do shaping a bit.
3: Transfer weight to RF
4 1: Close LF to RF
2: RF to side, part weight
3: Transfer weight to LF
4 1: Close RF to LF
Follower
2: RF back, at a 90" angle to Man on his R side | 1/4 to R
Turn is started on "&" of previous beat
It may appear to be side step, but it really need to be back step, keep thighs tight together.
However upper body can turn and "open up" to audience.
R arm/chest going back to open up "big".
3: Transfer weight fwd to LF
4 1: RF fwd, then turn to end RF to side | 1/4 to L
Lady places R hand on his L shoulder - no rush on this. Just need arm to connect, delay putting Lady's R hand on Man's shoulder.
In advanced form, this step can be taken fwd in line with other foot (or slightly cross, forward walk turn), then turn 1/2 to end at the 90" angle to Man. Settle and pressure into hand first, before stepping LF back.
2: LF back at a 90" angle to Man on his L side | 1/4 to L
3: Transfer weight fwd to RF
4 1: F fwd, then turn to end LF to side | 1/4 to R
In advanced form, this step can be taken fwd in line with other foot, then turn 1/2 to end at the 90" angle to Man.
Regain normal hold at end of 6.
Note:
Man is dancing a LF Cucaracha and RF Cucaracha.
Turn on step 1 and 4 are made at end of previous beat.
An Extended Forward Walk may be used on steps 3 & 6.
Variations (Silver & Gold):
Man may place R hand on Lady's back on 6, release L hand hold. Lady: place L hand on Man's R shoulder and turn 1/4 R into step 1 of following figure to 90 degree. Normal hold is regained on step 3 of following figure.
Man may lead lady fwd towards his R side on last step of preceding figure and then turn 1/4 R on RF keeping his feet together, at the same time leading Lady to turn R
Lady LF fwd in line with RF towards Man's R side, then turn 1/2 R on LF to end LF back at a 90 degree angle to Man. No turn on step 1 of the following Opening Out Movement.