What is konpa?

Konpa, also known as compas or kompa, is a dance style coming from the Caribbean country of Haiti. It is danced to a music style with the same name and is usually danced in pairs. 

Konpa embraces a fusion of African, European, and Caribbean influences. The music originated in 1955, however, both the music and dance have elements that are older than that. These elements included influences from Haitian Mereng, traditional Afro-Haitian and Cuban styles. 

Konpa is a family dance, the basics are easy to learn and you can dance it with anyone. Haitian konpa serves as a celebration of life, cultural identity, and the resilience of the Haitian people.

However, konpa has continued to evolve and new moves and styles are created by dancers in the Haitian diaspora. Konpa is a diverse dance that can be danced in many ways. For example, depending on the song or the dancer, konpa can be slow, fast, sensual, energetic or elegant. There is a lot of space for individual expression, without sacrificing the many ways to connect with your partner. 

Recent years have seen the popularity of konpa grow around the world. Konpa classes are now taught in the big cities on the East Coast of the US and Canada and in many cities in Europe as well.