What is swing?
Swing Dancing originated in Harlem, New York City in the late 1920s. It continued its popularity through to the late 1940s. The Swing Dance style that was widely danced was called Lindy Hop. The rhythms in Lindy Hop match the Jazz music swing beat. So you might say the two go hand in hand. The Savoy Ballroom in Harlem was a haven for Black Americans to dance Lindy Hop and connect with the brilliant original Jazz musicians. Chick Webb, Ella Fitzgerald, just to name a few, all played at the Savoy Ballroom. The Savoy Ballroom was famous for its ‘Battle of the Bands’ where two Jazz bands would face off against each other in the ultimate Jazz music showdown. A dance troupe called Whitey's Lindy Hoppers performed swing dance around the world and featured dancers such as Frankie Manning, Norma Miller, Willa Mae Ricker, Al Minns, Leon James- just to name a few!
The two most influential people in the origin and development of Lindy Hop swing dance are Frankie Manning and Norma Miller.
Frankie Manning
Frankie began dancing in his teens in Harlem and quickly became good enough to join an elite dance club. From there, he is known for his innovative style of dance that characterizes our Lindy Hop style today. He was an amazing choreographer and his passion for dance influenced many people.
Norma Miller
Norma Miller was one of the youngest recruits to join the original Lindy Hoppers and spent most of her 99 years involved with dance, music, comedy and film production. She danced in Broadway musicals and led many dance events and was a catalyst in a swing dance revival in the 1980s. She is affectionately known as the Queen of Swing.
Founders
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need dance experience?
Definitely not! There are plenty of places that offer beginner lessons and when you come to a social dance there is no expectation that you will have danced swing or any other kind of dance before.
Do I need a partner?
No. In fact, a lot of dancers come by themselves or with a group of friends but have no specific partner. The dances are structured in such a way that everyone will get a partner but each couple will also rotate throughout the lesson.
Am I too old or too young?
Be aware that each venue may have their own rules for age limits but usually only on the younger side. Kids can dance but be aware and check if the venue or dance is specifically for 18+.
What clothes and shoes should I wear?
Since swing is an athletic kind of dance, it is best to stick to comfortable clothes that allow you to move and be cool. Avoid shoes, and heels and wear shoes with soles that won’t grip the floor, since this will make the spinning hard!
Will I be doing flips and aerials during the lesson or social dance?
Most likely not. Even though that’s what a lot of people think about when they think of swing dance, it is not a common practice on most social dance floors. It is possible, but many safety precautions need to be in place. Aerials aren’t taught during drop-in classes and are always learned in a specific workshop with a designated partner that you trust and a spotter.