What is Swingdance
Want to learn more about swing dance?
Swing dance is a group of dances that developed with the swing style of jazz music in the 1920s-1940s, with the most popular being the Lindy Hop. These dances are characterized by a distinctive upbeat rhythm and a focus on improvisation and personal expression. Swing dances can be danced to a variety of swing-era music, such as jazz, blues, and big band. They are still enjoyed and danced today by people all over the world.
At Swing Central Odense, we primarily teach Lindy Hop and Collegiate Shag.
Lindy Hop
The Lindy Hop is considered the original swing dance and developed in the late 1920s and early 1930s in the African American communities of Harlem, New York City. It was named after Charles Lindbergh’s “hop” across the Atlantic in 1927. The dance originated in the Savoy Ballroom, which was a popular dance venue that attracted dancers of all races and backgrounds. The Lindy Hop is known for its energetic and acrobatic moves, and incorporates elements of other African American dances such as the Charleston and the Breakaway.
During the 1930s and 1940s, the Lindy Hop gained popularity throughout the United States and Europe, and was often performed in ballrooms, dance halls, and on stage.
In the 1950s, the Lindy Hop declined in popularity as other dance styles such as the Jive and the Rock and Roll became more popular. However, the dance experienced a resurgence in the 1980s and 1990s, thanks to the efforts of dancers and instructors who sought to preserve and promote the dance. Today, the Lindy Hop is enjoyed by dancers all over the world, and is considered a vibrant and dynamic dance style that continues to evolve.
Collegiate Shag
Collegiate Shag is a swing dance that developed in the United States in the late 1920s and early 1930s. It is characterized by its fast and syncopated footwork, which is similar to the Charleston, and its close hold and connection with the partner.
The dance is said to have originated on college campuses, particularly in the Southeast United States, where students would dance to the latest jazz and swing music in college ballrooms and dance halls. The dance became popular among young people and was often referred to as the “college dance.”
In the 1930s and 1940s, the Collegiate Shag was a popular dance style, particularly in the Southeast United States, and was often performed in ballrooms and dance halls. It was also featured in films such as “Dancing Co-Ed” and “The Big Broadcast of 1936” starring Bing Crosby.
During the 1950s, the popularity of the Collegiate Shag began to decline as other dance styles such as the Jive and the Rock and Roll became more popular. However, the dance experienced a resurgence in the 1980s and 1990s, thanks to the efforts of dancers and instructors who sought to preserve and promote the dance. Today, the Collegiate Shag is still enjoyed by dancers all over the world and is considered a fun and lively dance style with a strong historical roots.