Often asked?
What is Lindy Hop?
The most common word you'll hear when learning about Lindy Hop is: FUN!
Lindy Hop is considered a “social” dance, thanks to its close connections to the dance ballrooms in America, which means everyone is welcome! No matter your age, your level of fitness or if you’re a total beginner. Once you got the Lindy bug, there’s no way to stop!
Referred to as the grandfather of all swing dances, the Lindy Hop was a couple's dance that originated from the coming together of tap, the Charleston and the Breakaway, and was danced to the swinging jazz rhythms of the 1900's. It was born in the dance ballrooms in Harlem, New York, during the 20’s but it was the Savoy Ballroom, that was one of the most famous places, that saw Lindy Hop flourishing inside its doors and it was a place where everyone was welcome to dance, share moves and inspire each other, no matter their skin colour. It became really popular during the Swing Era of the 30’s and 40’s.
Swing dancer extraordinaire and ambassador of the Lindy Hop - Frankie Manning was a leading dancer at Harlem's legendary Savoy Ballroom where, in the mid-1930's, he revolutionised the course of the Lindy hop with his innovations, including the Lindy air step and synchronised ensemble Lindy routine.
Lindy Hop is considered a “social” dance, thanks to its close connections to the dance ballrooms in America, which means everyone is welcome! No matter your age, your level of fitness or if you’re a total beginner. Once you got the Lindy bug, there’s no way to stop!
Referred to as the grandfather of all swing dances, the Lindy Hop was a couple's dance that originated from the coming together of tap, the Charleston and the Breakaway, and was danced to the swinging jazz rhythms of the 1900's. It was born in the dance ballrooms in Harlem, New York, during the 20’s but it was the Savoy Ballroom, that was one of the most famous places, that saw Lindy Hop flourishing inside its doors and it was a place where everyone was welcome to dance, share moves and inspire each other, no matter their skin colour. It became really popular during the Swing Era of the 30’s and 40’s.
Swing dancer extraordinaire and ambassador of the Lindy Hop - Frankie Manning was a leading dancer at Harlem's legendary Savoy Ballroom where, in the mid-1930's, he revolutionised the course of the Lindy hop with his innovations, including the Lindy air step and synchronised ensemble Lindy routine.
What do you Teach?
We mainly teach Lindy Hop, a dance done to big band sounds. While “Lindy Hop” is the flagship of most swing dancing, we will also introduce you to a range of other great swing dances such as 1920s solo and partnered Charleston, Jazz Steps and Jazz Routines.
When can I Start?
You can join in at any time. There is no need to book or register — just turn up. Attend a few of the level 1 classes until you are confident in the fundamental rhythms.
If you miss a few it won’t matter as you will be learning a new move each week and combine them with previously learnt moves.
If you miss a few it won’t matter as you will be learning a new move each week and combine them with previously learnt moves.
What do I Wear?
As long as you are comfortable and can move freely wear anything you are comfortable in.
Layers are often a good idea as it can get quite hot!
For footwear, flat shoes are preferably, as high heels can be quite difficult to dance in!
Layers are often a good idea as it can get quite hot!
For footwear, flat shoes are preferably, as high heels can be quite difficult to dance in!
Do I need to bring a Partner?
Absolutely not! We rotate the class right through the lesson, so bringing a partner is not necessary.
What is Level 1 - Beginners?
This is the class for you if you have never danced before or if you have done some dancing but have never done a Lindy hop class.
Two primary rhythms are covered in these classes:
Two primary rhythms are covered in these classes:
- 6 beat Lindy Hop
- 8 beat Lindy Hop basics
- Classic moves such as Swing out
What is Level 2 - Improvers?
In general for these classes you need to know the basic swing rhythms taught in Level 1:
- 6 Beat Lindy Hop
- Charleston (Side-by-side)
- and the basics of 8 beat Lindy Hop (swing outs!)
