A variation of the Shim Sham as performed by Al Minns and Leon James, two famous original Lindy Hoppers who were part of Whitey's Lindy Hoppers. No prior knowledge of the original Shim Sham is necessary. It's great for expanding your personal jazz movement and very versatile for incorporating into larger lindy routines.
This move can prove to be challenging, but the effort is worth it. Once internalized, squat Charlestons can really fun to do, though they can be exhausting when done for long periods of time.
A really cool variation of basic Charleston with many options for flare. It combines 4-count, half-time, and full-time rhythm. Some variations use the triple step rhythm.
Originally choreographed by Dax Orion and Kevin St. Laurent in 2007 at Herrang Dance Camp, the Slip Slop Shim Sham is a fun way to push your sliding skills. It uses the same structure as the Shim Sham, but involves tricky slide moves. Proper shoes and a proper floor can make all the difference with this short routine. It's also great to dance simultaneously while the rest of the room is dancing the traditional Shim Sham.
The magic of this move is in the leg that sweeps, but the technique of this move is in the standing leg. Commit to your weight change, bend into the leg, and add full leg extensions to make it look amazing.
The basic Lockstep uses full-time and 4-count rhythm. It's a classic phrase-ending move and great transition to use in choreographies. The exit has the advantage of being split-weight so either foot can be ready for the next move depending on what is needed.
This is specifically a version of the Big Apple routine as choreographed by Frankie Manning for Whitey's Lindy Hoppers. It can be seen in the film Keep Punching. The music used here was transcribed by Solomon Douglas from the film clip and recorded by the Solomon Douglas Swingtet. This routine can be used as is for performance gigs and/or played as a line dance during a social dance. It has a solo and partnered sections. This might be Jo's all time favorite routine. She has been spotted running enthusiastically from conversations, waiting for a drink at the bar, from the middle of dinner and even from the car as it pulls up to the social dance when she hears this song.
Often used in conjunction with Boogie Forwards, Boogie Backs are simple, fun and fundamental. This is the most standard/basic version, but variations abound. And yes, it does start on count 8 of the phrase.
Using 4-count and/or half-time rhythm, these classic kicks are aerobic, fun, and impressive. Many variations exist, so use this version as a great starting point.
Even though it can look like the weight is split, it's critical that you do a full weight shift on every step and twist. Upper body position and hand stylings should be modified to match the music and/or your own style.