Bachata
Matador (Crossed-Hand Matador)
Also known as: Crossed-Hand Matador, the cape pass
A crossed-hand cape-style pattern that sweeps the follow past the lead like a matador's pass — the flagship Moderna turn-pattern showpiece.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
An advanced turn pattern danced from a crossed-hand hold. The lead carries the joined hands around and sweeps the follow across and past him like a bullfighter drawing the cape, ending in an open hold. The crossed hands and the big sweep are what make it read as a showpiece.
Key Points
- Lead: Keep the crossed hands high and the sweep wide and continuous; lead the pass from body rotation, not arm strength.
- Follow: Travel the full arc of the pass and stay tall, letting the cross unwind cleanly rather than fighting it.
- Timing: Over a full 8-count so the sweep can breathe.
- Common mistake: Cramping the sweep so the hands tangle, or rushing so the 'cape' never opens.
Style Notes
A flashy Moderna highlight — give it room and a strong musical phrase. Resolves to open position ready for a spin or a hand-change.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
- Musical use
- Level
- Advanced
- Type
- Frame
- Style
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