Charleston Double Kicks
As a solo drill it's double kicks, but really this technique is applied to any number of kicks beyond one.
As a solo drill it's double kicks, but really this technique is applied to any number of kicks beyond one.
Follow slide variations. You will need a slippery floor and slippery shoes to make these slides impressive. In general, these slides are independent from your partner so they are great for being musical and flashy even when your leader is boring and not leading interesting variations.
Simple flash can be the best flash. Your only risk is perhaps upsetting the "purest" of Lindy Hoppers who might say, "Hey, that's a west coast swing move!" To which you can reply, "But we're having fun....go away!." or if you care to get more particular you might say, "But what dance did west coast swing evolve from?" The answer is Lindy Hop. Also, sharing is caring.
This builds on single and double kick technique and is a key feature for both solo and partnered Charleston moves.
Leader slide variations. You will need a slippery floor and slippery shoes to make these slides impressive. In general, these slides are independent from your partner so they are great for being musical and flashy even when your followerer is boring or not ready for fancy variations.
This southern California staple has it's highs and lows. In the beginning, every outside turn seems to become a quick stop. Therefore we challenge you to use it sparingly, but with great musical accuracy. Overuse may cause creative stagnation, but a well timed quick step is akin to nirvana.
Training drills with music that are great for warming up and preparing you for more challenging movement.
The Sham Sham has become a global Lindy Hop phenomenon. When in doubt....Shim Sham! We have 3 versions for you to learn based on your current skill level or if you need inspiration in deciding what to teach your students. Originating in the tap dance community in the 1920s from Leonard Reed and Willie Bryant, Lindy Hoppers have since modified it to work for "soft shoe" dancing. The primary version used in the global Lindy Hop community was introduced by Frankie Manning to NYC in the 1980s.
With a great move comes the responsibility to have great shoes. Kevin happens to be wearing hard leather soled shoes with a built up heel provided by Saint Savoy. The floor also needs to be sufficiently slippery and ones partner needs to be supportive. Once everything is in place, slide your heels away.
A traditional aspect of Lindy Hop styling used predominantly by followers, but valuable for leads to know as well. Never underestimate the power of swivels because many a Lindy Hopper have built reputations based on their swivel styling.