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Maybe you think you have two left feet, or perhaps you’re convinced that you aren’t up to the athletic challenge. We’re here to tell you – you can do it! At Dance Pizazz, we firmly believe that everyone can learn to swing dance, regardless of their perceived rhythm or lack thereof. Swing dance is not just a fun, energetic pastime; it’s an incredible way to exercise, improve your coordination, relieve stress, and connect with others. Of course, the best way to learn about swing dancing is to do it, but consider some more reasons why you might take the leap.
When you hear the word “dance,” a workout might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, swing dance offers a fun and engaging way to get moving. Here’s why you should consider learning to swing dance:
Swing dance, a collection of exhilarating dance forms, originated in the 1920s to 1940s, a period known as the “swing era.” It was a time of artistic innovation, and swing music played a prominent role. Swing dances typically include partner-style dance forms, and the roots are deep and diverse.
A significant landmark in swing dance history was the opening of the Savoy Ballroom in New York in 1926. The ballroom attracted famous dancers and musicians, and it became a hotbed of creativity where new dance moves were born.
The Charleston and the Lindy Hop were among the earliest swing dance forms. These dances evolved alongside the swing jazz music of the era. The famous “Lindy Hop” dance form got its name when a local enthusiast, watching a dance at the Savoy Ballroom, read a newspaper headline that said, “Lindy Hops the Atlantic.” Without a name for the dance, he borrowed “Lindy Hop” from the headline, and the name stuck.
In the 1930s, the Jitterbug, a six-beat variant of swing dance, emerged. Swing continued to evolve, absorbing elements from tap and jazz dance. Dance groups like “Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers” and influential figures like Dean Collins played pivotal roles in spreading the dance’s popularity.
Despite its popularity, swing dance faced early criticism from the elite dance community, which deemed it a “degenerated form of jazz.” Some even considered it overly vulgar. In Germany, the swing music and dances were banned. However, this couldn’t dampen the people’s enthusiasm for swing, and party-goers continued to enjoy the music and the dances, despite the prohibitions.
In the 1940s, more and more influential dance studios recognized the dance forms naturally emerging in urban centers and started teaching them. This revolution led to the official establishment of swing dance in the 1950s.
Swing dance continued to evolve, incorporating various dance forms, including Ballroom East Coast Swing and Ballroom West Coast Swing, and remains a dynamic and captivating style of dance today.
At Dance Pizazz, we welcome beginners and seasoned dancers alike to discover the joy of Swing dancing. Our supportive and inclusive community fosters self-expression, personal growth, and confidence. Our Professional Dance Instructors are experts at what they do, but more importantly, they’re your steadfast partners on your dance adventure.
Whether you’re eager to learn the basics or take your Swing skills to the next level, we offer a range of lessons that cater to your needs. Swing dance is all about fun, fitness, and friendship, and our vibrant dance community embodies these values.
Don’t let doubts or misconceptions hold you back from your Swing dance experience. Swing is for everyone, and it’s an absolute blast! Embrace the rhythm, the fun, and the fitness. Take the plunge into the world of Swing dancing and join us at Dance Pizazz. Swing your way to a happier, healthier you and enjoy the camaraderie of our dancing community. The dance revolution is calling – will you answer?