What? Charleston requires spinning? Indeed it does. Expand your charleston 2 fold by learning to spin and kick at the same time!
Jo uses the Swing Out framework and some set styling options as a way to establish a base of movement so followers can eventually create their own variations. It's important to practice the movement solo initially before attempting with a partner. Once you have a willing Leader, ask them to lead short sequences of just Swing Outs so you can really burn into muscle memory each new variation.
It starts like the regular Tandem Rainbow, and ends like the regular Tandem Rainbow, but gets funky in the middle. Everyone needs to have solid independent balance, solid kick technique and strong calves.
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.
If you're not falling, you're not learning. Get the right shoes on the right floor and start finding your limits.
Lazy Fast dancing can look simple, but the technique is critical to making it feel comfortable. To be successful with this, focus on getting the mechanics right. We view this as early style Lindy hop when the traditional jazz music was using more of a two beat feel and was typically played at upper tempos. Lazy fast dancing can be a comfortable method for long nights of social dancing.
The mythical magic of the sugar push. When the connection feels correct, variations feel like butter. Leaders need to be open and receptive to their follows movement and creativity. If someone brings the push, the other can bring the sugar.
The Shim 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.
The best part of side slides is the ride. If you do the proper preparation, you can enjoy long smooth rides across the dance floor.
A classic short piece of choreo (32 bars) from the famous Whitey's Lindy Hoppers. This is a must know for any Lindy performer or competitor. Level 5 is the primary version Kevin and Jo use. Level 3 & 4 are adapted versions for lower tempos and for when you don't have a partner you can do aerials with.
