Explore the vibrant world of swing dances

Lindy Hop is an American social dance originating in the 1920s at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem, New York (NY). Lindy Hop grew out of the Send Out which has roots in many African American dances including Charleston, Tap, the Cakewalk, & Texas Tommy. These African American roots also gave Lindy Hop its strong basis in self expression that we continue to see today.

There are many big names that came out of Harlem, NY. Whitey's Lindy Hoppers was one of those names. This group of people developed a professional performance group that traveled around the world spreading the knowledge of Lindy Hop.
Some of Whitey's Lindy Hoppers most famous members were Al Minns, Leon James, Frankie Manning, & Norma Miller.

East Coast Swing is a lively and energetic form of swing dance that evolved from the Lindy Hop in the mid-20th century. It features a 6-count basic step and incorporates both single-time and triple-time rhythms. Known for its versatility, East Coast Swing can be danced to various styles of music, including big band, rock and roll, and rhythm and blues. It’s characterized by its playful, upbeat nature and is popular in social dance settings around the world.

Collegiate Shag was popular in the late 1920s among, you guessed it, college students. If you’ve ever seen Collegiate Shag, you will know why! Only college students have that kind of stamina! This dance was extremely popular on the West Coast where it was used in dance competitions such as The Harvest Moon Ball. Today the dance has been taken to a new level by the addition of aerials and intricate footwork patterns.

The 1920s Charleston is a dynamic and exuberant dance style that originated during the Jazz Age. It emerged alongside the lively jazz music of the time, characterized by its syncopated rhythms and energetic movements. The dance features distinctive footwork, including fast-paced kicks and swivels, often performed with solo improvisation or in groups. The Charleston became synonymous with the carefree and liberated spirit of the Roaring Twenties, influencing popular culture and dance styles for decades to come. Its vibrant energy and infectious rhythm continue to captivate dancers and audiences worldwide.

The 1930s Charleston evolved from its 1920s predecessor but retained its lively and energetic essence. This dance style continued to be popular during the Great Depression era, adapting to the changing musical landscape with the rise of swing music. The 1930s Charleston maintained its syncopated rhythms and playful footwork, characterized by kicks, swivels, and improvisational steps. It became a staple of social dance floors and entertainment venues, reflecting the resilience and joy-seeking spirit of the time. The dance’s dynamic movements and infectious rhythm remain a testament to its enduring appeal in the history of swing dance.

It is said that Balboa became popular because of the crowded dance floors of the time. There was not room to do much moving around, and some ballrooms even forbade couples from separating from one another so that they could pack in the maximum number of dancers. Balboa has a unique body positioning. The dancers actually lean into one another slightly, touching from belly to chest. Balboa, when danced well, is very smooth, with the dancers’ heads barely moving, and their feet going wild beneath them.