Swing Dance

About this course

The course develops more complex Lindy Hop and Lindy Charleston figures, partnering technique, individual styling and more elaborate combinations for social dancing. Sessions include a group warm-up, rotating partners and discussion of a short video about Lindy Hop in performance and its history. Alongside social-dance practice, participants learn the classic “Stops” routine and other choreographed material, working towards a performance-ready ensemble piece with a partner. Dedicated practice sessions allow learners to refine both their social and choreographed dancing with tutor guidance.

What you'll learn

• Perform Lindy Hop and Lindy Charleston figures, including six-count and eight-count material.
• Freestyle Lindy Hop and Charleston steps to 1930s and 1940s music.
• Apply partnering technique, individual styling and more elaborate combinations in social dancing.
• Distinguish between social dancing and performance dancing.
• Perform a choreographed Lindy Hop routine with a partner as part of an ensemble.
• Identify and discuss significant performances in Lindy Hop history.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for dancers with the stated intermediate Lindy Hop ability, either through completing the provider’s intermediate course or demonstrating six-count and eight-count Lindy Hop and Lindy Charleston figures over a full song. Participants rotate partners, take part in repeated physical activity and work towards performance, so a good level of fitness is required.

• Learners need to be willing to dance with different partners.
• Lead and follow roles are open to everyone, with switching between roles possible.
• The course includes an ensemble performance element.
• Physical restrictions should be discussed with the tutor before the course.

Before you go

• Wear comfortable shoes with a low or flat heel that allow free movement; trainers are not suitable.
• Bring water and a notepad. Learners may make their own text or video notes.
• Learners with physical restrictions, serious health conditions or a history of injury should seek appropriate medical advice and inform the tutor about activities they have been advised to avoid.
• Class activities may be photographed or filmed for learning and provider publicity. Learners can confirm or decline consent.