The Tumbra

(c. 1955)

Introduction

The Tumbra is a mid-20th century couple dance, invented by Fanny Pechetti and described by Morrie Morrison in 1955.

Like the earlier Moochi, it is an adaptation of Foxtrot to Waltz time.

In this case, SSQQ figures of Foxtrot are danced on the 1, 3, 5, and 6 of the six counts of a waltz.

The Dance

Anything from Magic Step (SSQQ) Foxtrot can be adapted into the Tumbra.

Here are some possibilities:

Back the Follow: Back the Follow two slow steps (1, 3), then diagonally side close into the center along LOD (5, 6).

Forward and Back Sway: Sway along LOD (1), against LOD (3), and side (5), close (6) against LOD. Then repeat against LOD to regain original orientation (1, 3, 5, 6).

Promenade: Promenade two slow steps along LOD (1, 3), then side (5), close (6) along LOD.

Side Sway: Sway along LOD (1), against LOD (3), and side (5), close (6) along LOD.
Single Pivot: Back the Lead (1), back the Follow (3), and side (5), close (6) along LOD.

Multiple Pivots: Simply repeat the Single Pivot.

Zig Zag: Back the Lead two steps diagonally to center along LOD (1, 3), and side (5), close (6) along LOD. Then back the Follow two steps diagonally to outside wall along LOD (1, 3), and side (5), close (6) along LOD.

The Music

I've yet to find a copy of the original music, which was said to have been adapted from a Sudanese tune, but in the meantime, it can be danced to moderate waltz music. For example, try:

Sources

MM55 — Morrie Morrison. (1955). Morrie Morrison's Dance Book, A Journey into the Land of Terpsichore. Seattle.

If you or your community is interested in learning the Tumbra, .

For more dance descriptions, see our three books on dancing:
The Book of Mixers: 100 Easy-Teach Dances for Getting Acquainted (2022) by Richard Powers and Nick & Melissa Enge,
Cross-Step Waltz: A Dancer's Guide (2019) by Richard Powers and Nick & Melissa Enge, and
Waltzing: A Manual for Dancing and Living (2013) by Richard Powers and Nick Enge.

Home About Dances Manuals Search