Recap of the start to Winter 2025 Swing Dance Classes! Let's get this party started!

This past week was an incredible start to our swing dance classes! 💃🕺

New SnapLock dance floor installed for classes

The afternoon kicked off with the installation of our amazing new portable dance floor. This gift from the dance community is a game-changer, providing a perfect surface for dancing anywhere!

By 6:00 PM, the room was buzzing with excitement as students of all ages (10 to 80+) arrived, ready to learn. We started with the basic swing rhythm, clapping and stepping to the beat, and then progressed to the 6-count rhythm that will be the foundation of our classes.

Seeing the smiles, the "aha!" moments, and the pure joy on everyone's faces as they discovered the magic of swing dance was truly heartwarming. It's a privilege to witness this transformation and share the love of dance with others. ❤️

Week 1: Got Our Feet Tappin', Hearts Whippin'! Welcome to Beginner Swing Dance! (Beginner Wednesday & Thursday)

Buckle up, because our Beginner Swing Dance Class journey started right here, right now!

This week, we cracked open the door to a world of music and movement. We tapped into the pulse of swing rhythms, learning to feel the beat in our bones and letting it guide our feet. We got ready to say goodbye to "two left feet" and hello to stepping out in style!

First up, we conquered the single step swing. We thought of easy, breezy moves that grooved to the melody. Then, we introduced the rock step (ball change), adding a sprinkle of spice to our footwork. We were surprised how quickly those basic steps started to feel natural!

But we held onto our partner (or grabbed a new one!), because it was time to double our fun with a double-step swing! We built on the single step, adding in an extra hop to keep things flowing smoothly. We just waited till we felt the music carry us through this one!

And finally, the pièce de résistance – the triple-step swing! This dynamic pattern combined everything we had learned, packing three steps into every count for a truly exhilarating experience. By the end of the class, we had mastered the magical 6-count swing pattern – the foundation of countless swing variations waiting to be explored!

But here's the best part: we weren't doing it alone! We were guided every step of the way, helping us connect with our partner and move as one in the open position. We were gliding across the floor in no time, leaving grins in our wake.

So, we ditched the doubts and dived into the joy of swing! This was our chance to discover a hidden talent, make new friends, and unlock a world of laughter, music, and pure dance floor magic. We couldn't wait to see ourselves shine!

P.S. Don't forget, this was just the beginning! Week 1 was our launching pad to a 6-week journey of swingy fun. We stayed tuned for more exciting dances, playful moves, and unforgettable memories!

Starting our deep dive into the Carolina Shag, we may not have gotten it perfect, but it was quite alright! (Intermediate Wednesday)

In Week 1 of Carolina Shag, we introduced the foundational six-count pattern: "triple step, triple step, rock step." We learned to break down this rhythm into individual steps, focusing on smooth, rhythmic movement and solid emphasis on beats two and four. The class also covered basic partner connection, exploring open and closed positions and transitions between them, along with simple mirror movements and partner facing to establish a comfortable connection.

Here comes Lindy Hop! Many had asked for it, but we were warned it was quick and we might need a towel for all the condensation! (Intermediate Thursday)

Week 1 was where we dove into the basics, like, what is Lindy Hop (besides totally awesome)? We learned it was a dance born in Harlem during the Black Renaissance, a rebellious child of jazz that lets you groove with a partner or fly solo. We also covered the importance of not stepping on toes (both literally and figuratively), because nobody wanted a dance partner with bruised feet. Then we got into the 6-count rhythm – basically bouncing our butt to the beat while stepping every now and then. We practiced rocking, tripling, and moving like we just didn't care (but still on beat). We also dabbled in partner connection, holding hands and not tripping over each other while doing the basic steps. So, yeah, bouncing, not tripping, and generally having a good time – that was Week 1 in a nutshell.

#SwingDance #BeginnerClass #DanceCommunity #JoyOfMovement #DanceIsLife #SnapLockDanceFloor

Dance Your Way to Playfulness: Rediscovering Joy in Movement

Who says dance is just for kids?

As adults, we often get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, forgetting the simple joy of movement. Dance, however, offers a delightful escape, inviting us to reconnect with our playful side and experience the numerous benefits it brings.

Why Dance is the Ultimate Playful Pursuit

Dance is more than just physical exercise; it's a holistic experience that nourishes both body and mind. Here's how:

• Physical Well-being:

  • Stress Relief: The rhythmic movements of dance release endorphins, natural mood elevators, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Improved Mood: The combination of physical activity and music can uplift your spirits and boost your overall mood.
  • Enhanced Creativity: Dance encourages creative expression, allowing you to explore different movements and styles.
  • Boosted Confidence: Learning new dance moves and performing them can increase self-confidence and self-esteem.

• Social Connection:

  • Shared Experience: Dancing with others creates a sense of community and shared experience.
  • Communication Beyond Words: Dance can express emotions and ideas that words alone cannot convey.
  • Strengthened Relationships: Engaging in a fun and playful activity like dance can deepen bonds with friends and loved ones.

• Mindfulness and Presence:

  • Focus on the Present Moment: Dance requires full attention to the body's movements and the music, promoting mindfulness.
  • Reduced Self-Consciousness: Immersing yourself in the dance can help you let go of self-judgment and embrace the moment.

How to Incorporate Dance into Your Life

1. Take a Dance Class: Whether it's ballet, hip-hop, or salsa, learning a new style can be both challenging and fun.
2. Dance Parties: Organize dance parties with friends and family, or attend local events that feature live music and dancing.
3. Dance at Home: Turn on your favorite music and let loose in your living room.
4. Dance Therapy: Consider dance therapy as a way to explore emotions and improve mental well-being.

Remember, the key to playful dance is to let go of inhibitions and enjoy the process. Don't worry about being perfect or following specific steps. Just move your body to the rhythm of the music and have fun!

So, why not rediscover the joy of dance and let your inner child shine? Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you.

We are Underhill's Swing and Shag Dance Collective and we can guide you towards the discovery of dancing your way to playfulness and lean in to the power of play!

Exciting News! New Venue, New Classes, and a Big Thank You!

We're thrilled to share some fantastic updates about the Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club!

First, the good news about our fundraising efforts:

We're so close to our goal of $4,500 for the SnapLock portable dance floor! Thanks to your generous contributions, we're currently at $3,950. We're hopeful that we'll be able to order and receive the floor before the end of December.

New Venue and Class Schedule:

To accommodate our new dance floor, we're excited to announce that we'll be moving our classes to the Colonial Heights Optimist Building starting in January 2025. This new venue will allow us to make some exciting improvements to our class offerings:

• Earlier Start Time: Classes will now begin at 6:00 PM, giving you more time to enjoy the evening.
• Extended Beginner Lesson: The beginner lesson will be extended to an hour and a half, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM.
• Flexible Class Structure: The Optimist Club is graciously allowing us to set up the dance floor on Wednesday evenings and leave it up until Thursday evenings. This means we can offer both Wednesday and Thursday night classes at this convenient location.

Here's the new class schedule for the next 6-week series:

Wednesday Nights (Starting January 22, 2025)

• 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Beginner Basic Swing Dance
• 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM: Beginner to Intermediate Carolina Shag

Thursday Nights (Starting January 23, 2025)

• 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Beginner Basic Swing Dance
• 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM: Beginner to Intermediate Lindy Hop

Register Now! Please register for your desired classes by filling out this form: https://forms.gle/mMyFnp5EVdNqHZLV9

A Heartfelt Thank You:

We want to express our sincere gratitude to the Colonial Heights Moose Lodge for allowing us to use their space for the past year. We appreciate their support and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

We're excited about the future of the Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club and can't wait to see you on the dance floor!

Best regards,

Roger & Denise Underhill

An update on a New Dance Floor for Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club

Exciting News! We're thrilled to announce our plans to purchase a Snaplock portable dance floor for the Colonial Heights community. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we're one step closer to making this dream a reality.

Our Vision

Our goal is to create a valuable asset for the local dance community by establishing the Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club as a 501c(7) nonprofit organization. This will enable us to:

• Own the dance floor: The floor will become a club asset, ensuring its long-term availability.
• Manage club finances: We'll establish a board and a checking account to handle business transactions efficiently.
• Offer rentals: The dance floor will be available for rent to the public for private events, dances, parties, and more.

How Rental Income Will Be Used:

1. Reimbursing Donors: If requested by our donors, our top priority is to repay the generous individuals who have contributed to this project.
2. Funding Club Activities: Once initial funds are reimbursed, we'll allocate remaining income to support club events, trips, and the search for a dedicated dance facility.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Your continued support is essential to the success of this project. Together, we can create a vibrant dance community and provide a top-notch facility for everyone to enjoy.

Make Your Donation Today

Let's dance together! 

Dancing on Concrete - A Swing Dance Club's Plea

We are the leaders of Colonial Heights Swing Dance Club, and we are passionate about bringing the joy of swing dancing to our community. However, we are currently facing a challenge that is hindering our ability to provide a safe and enjoyable dancing experience for our members.

Our current dance floor is made of concrete or tile-covered concrete, which is a very hard and unforgiving surface, this can be further complicated when the floor is not well maintained and becomes sticky. This surface can cause injuries, such as ankle sprains, knee problems, and hip pain, especially when dancing for extended periods of time. We are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable dancing experience for all of our members. To achieve this, we are raising funds to purchase a Snaplock portable dance floor. This dance floor is made of polypropylene base with various commercial grade laminate top surfaces that look like wood that is designed to absorb shock and reduce stress on dancers' joints. It is also easy to set up and take down, so it can be used for a variety of events.

The cost of a 21’ x 21’ Snaplock portable dance floor is about $4,300. We have a generous donor that has offered to match donations up to $5,000 which would result in our ability to get a 30' x 30' floor! Let's make it happen! We are asking for your help to raise this money so that we can provide a better dancing experience for our members. It also allows us to set up on a myriad of other indoor or outdoor flat surfaces of dirt, sand, grass, asphalt, etc.

How You Can Help

There are many ways that you can help us to raise funds for our Snaplock portable dance floor. Here are a few ideas:

• Donate to our spotfund campaign: We have set up a spotfund campaign to collect donations for the dance floor. Please visit our page and donate whatever you can.
• Attend our events: We hold a variety of events throughout the year, such as classes, workshops, and social dances. By attending these events, you will be supporting our club and helping us to raise funds for the dance floor.
• Spread the word: Please tell your friends and family about our fundraising campaign. The more people who know about our cause, the more likely we are to reach our goal.

With your support, we can create a space where dancers of all levels can come together to enjoy the music, connect with friends, and move their bodies without fear of injury. Your contribution will help us build a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant dance community.

Donate Today!

Dancing Across Divides: An Afternoon of Unity at the Summer Instructors Ball

This past weekend, we had the privilege of attending the Summer Instructors Ball in Philadelphia, PA. This incredible event brought together dance instructors from across the region, from New York to Virginia, showcasing a diverse array of dance styles. What truly struck me was the power of dance to bridge cultural gaps and foster a sense of community.

A Melting Pot of Dance

The Summer Instructors Ball was a vibrant celebration of dance, featuring everything from Detroit Ballroom to Carolina Shag. Instructors, accompanied by their students, took turns performing short showcases, providing a glimpse into their unique styles and the rich histories behind them.

A Social Dance Haven

Between the showcases, the social floor was a bustling hub of activity. Dancers of all levels and backgrounds came together to share their passion for dance. The blend of different styles created a mesmerizing tapestry of movement, as dancers communicated through lead and follow, exchanging steps and rhythms.

Building Community Through Dance

One of the most inspiring aspects of the event was the sense of community that permeated the space. Dancers from diverse backgrounds came together, united by their shared love of dance. The Summer Instructors Ball served as a platform for collaboration, learning, and inspiration. It reminded me of the incredible power of dance to bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.

Conclusion

The Summer Instructors Ball was more than just a dance event; it was a celebration of human connection and the transformative power of dance. As I left the event, I was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to continue sharing my passion for dance with others.

Swing Dancing Through Time: A Footwork Exploration Workshop

Denise and I had the opportunity and a fantastic time presenting a workshop to over 40 dancers this past Saturday, May 18th, at the Colonial Heights Moose Lodge as a fundraiser for their Ballroom Renovation Project! As a part of this project they are planning to install a solid wood dance floor in order to support dancing as a way to promote and build the community at large. This workshop was our first attempt at bringing together a group of dancers from the Colonial Heights area and taking them on a journey to explore the origins of the dances they love.

In this blog post, we'll be outlining the basic structure of the class and sharing some additional notes. We're excited to continue offering these educational workshops in the future!

8-Count Charleston: The Root of Swing

The energetic Charleston dance, with roots in the rich tapestry of African American social dances, originated in the coastal communities of South Carolina, particularly around Charleston, the very city that lent its name to the craze. These dances, often seen on plantations or at social gatherings, laid the foundation for Charleston's footwork and rhythmic spirit. During the Great Migration (early 20th century), African Americans, seeking opportunities and escaping racial tensions, moved north in large numbers. This migration brought Charleston, along with other cultural elements, to the vibrant Harlem neighborhood of New York City. There, the dance further evolved, incorporating elements of tap and taking on a new life as a partnered expression within the burgeoning jazz scene. Charleston's playful steps and infectious energy became a symbol of the era's vibrancy and continue to be a celebrated part of swing dance history.

The Charleston was a wildly popular dance that spawned many variations during the 1920s and 30s. 

Breakaway Innovation:

In the early 1920s, dancers began incorporating a new move called the "breakaway" into their Charleston routines. This involved couples momentarily separating while still connected by one hand, allowing for individual footwork improvisations. This innovation marked a crucial shift from a purely solo dance to a more social and interactive partnered form.

8-Count Balboa: The Smooth Operator of Swing Dances

Balboa, a captivating swing dance born in the 1920s of Southern California, is known for its close-bodied elegance and distinctive footwork. Here's a quick rundown:

• Origins: Emerging in crowded ballrooms, Balboa might have adapted from dances like the Foxtrot, Charleston, or even the Rhumba. Its exact lineage is a subject of debate among dance historians.

• Style: Unlike the open positions of Lindy Hop, Balboa embraces a chest-to-chest connection with partners. The focus lies on smooth footwork variations and syncopation, creating a captivating visual and rhythmic interplay.

• Footwork: Characterized by a four-on-the-floor rhythm with quick steps and hip swivels, Balboa emphasizes intricate footwork patterns within a compact space.

• Legacy: Balboa's unique style has endured, attracting dancers who appreciate its close connection and intricate footwork variations. It remains a vibrant part of the swing dance community today.

• Count: 1,2,3,4 (hold),5,6,7,8 (hold) or Step, Step, Step, Hold, Step, Step, Step, Hold

8-Count Lindy Hop: The Swing Dance King

Lindy Hop, a high-energy social dance born in the 1920s Harlem of New York City, is the undisputed king of swing dances. Here's a quick rundown of its key characteristics:

• Birthplace: Harlem, New York City (late 1920s)

• Roots: A fusion of various dances like the Charleston, Tap, and breakaway variations, Lindy Hop embodied the vibrancy of the jazz scene and the cultural exchange happening in Harlem.

• Style: Energetic, playful, and highly improvisational. It features intricate footwork with 8-count rhythm (although 6-count variations exist), throws, aerials (lifts and dips), and a strong sense of connection between partners.

• Legacy: Lindy Hop transcended racial and social barriers, becoming a symbol of joy and liberation. Today, it's a global phenomenon with dedicated communities worldwide, constantly evolving and inspiring new generations of dancers.

• Count: 1,2,3&4,5,6,7&8 or Rock Step, Triple Step, Step, Step, Triple Step

6-Count Swing: A Simpler Way to Swing Dance

The 6-count swing dance is a great entry point for those wanting to explore the world of swing dancing without the initial complexities of the 8-count Lindy Hop. Here's the lowdown:

• Easier Rhythm: The 6-count structure offers a clear and manageable rhythm pattern, making it easier to learn the basic footwork compared to the 8-count Lindy Hop.

• Connection: While not as close-bodied as Balboa, 6-count swing emphasizes a comfortable connection between partners, allowing for smooth movement and lead-follow communication.

• Style: Generally known for a smoother and more controlled feel compared to the energetic swings and aerials of Lindy Hop. 6-count swing can still be playful and expressive, with variations like footwork embellishments and dips adding personality.

• Learning Progression: Many dancers find success starting with 6-count swing before transitioning to the more intricate footwork and connection of Lindy Hop.

• Popular Styles: East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Bop, Carolina Shag

• Count: 1,2,3&4,5&6 or Rock Step, Triple Step, Triple Step

Charleston Line Dance Bonus

Thanks for Attending!

Roger & Denise Underhill

Dust off your dancing shoes and travel through time with our Swinging Through Time Workshop!

This 2-hour workshop is your chance to explore the rich history of swing dance through its footwork evolution. Get ready to tap your toes and learn how swing dancing transformed across the decades!

Here's what you'll get for your $25:

• Charleston Craze: Master the iconic Charleston steps of the 1920s, including the side-by-side and the shimmy.
  *To learn more about the history, here a quick video: Abbreviated Charleston History - Lindy Hop and Swing Dance
  
  
• Partnered Charleston: Learn how the Charleston transitioned into a fun and flirty partnered dance in the 30s.
  
  
• Balboa Basics: Discover the smooth and close-bodied Balboa style from California, known for its lollies, paddles and more.
  
  
• Swingout Showdown: Explore the footwork differences between East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop, two major swing variations.
  
  
• Timeless Fun: Socialize with fellow swing enthusiasts, learn from experienced instructors, and most importantly, have a blast!
  
  
• Gourmet Pizza: Choose your favorite pizza from a menu provided by Furnace Neapolitan Pizza Pop-Up
  
  
• 3-hours of Dancing: Stick around and dance as we spin some Beach, Boogie, and Blues with a side of classic country and rock-n-roll from 7pm to 10pm ($5 admission for dance only)

No partner needed! This workshop is perfect for beginners and anyone curious about the fascinating footwork of swing dance.

Sign up today and get ready to Swing Through Time!

Swing Dance Your Way to a More Fulfilling Life: How Dance Can Spark Joy and Connection

Have you ever watched a couple swing dancing and been captivated by their effortless twirls and infectious energy? Swing dancing is more than just a fun activity; it's a gateway to a more flourishing life. 

While achieving ultimate fulfillment involves various aspects, here's how swing dance can significantly contribute:

1. Body and Mind in Harmony: Swing dancing isn't just about fancy footwork, think the Carolina Shag. It's a full-body workout that gets your heart pumping, improves coordination, and boosts flexibility.  The rhythmic nature of the music and the focus required to learn the steps can also elevate your mood and combat stress. 
   
   
2. Find Your Tribe: Swing dance classes are a fantastic way to meet new people who share your enthusiasm. This fosters friendships, creates a sense of belonging, and combats feelings of isolation.  Imagine a room filled with individuals eager to learn, laugh, and celebrate the joy of movement together.
   
   
3. Confidence Through Movement: Learning a new skill like dancing can be challenging. But mastering those steps and expressing yourself through movement is a powerful confidence booster. As you progress, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for your body's capabilities and feel a sense of accomplishment.
   
   
4. De-stress and Unwind: Let's face it, life can be overwhelming. Swing dancing offers a perfect escape.  It's a chance to lose yourself in the music, have fun, and express yourself creatively.  This can be a valuable tool to de-stress, improve your mood, and leave your worries on the dance floor. 

But the magic doesn't stop at the end of the class:

• The Community Keeps Growing: The world of swing dance extends far beyond the classroom. Social dances, workshops, and even performance opportunities often arise. This allows you to:
  
  
• Expand your social circle: You'll interact with passionate individuals, potentially building strong friendships and a supportive network.
  
  
• Become a Dance Master: Delve deeper into specific styles, improvisation techniques, or even explore the world of performance.
  
  
• Travel the World (One Swing Step at a Time): Swing dance events and festivals are held worldwide. Participating in these opens doors to unique travel experiences and cultural immersion.

Remember, a flourishing life is a multi-faceted journey. However, taking the first step into a swing dance class can be the spark that ignites positive changes in your well-being, social connection, and personal growth. So, dust off your dancing shoes, and be prepared to swing your way towards a more fulfilling life!

FREE** 6-week Beginner and Intermediate Swing and Carolina Shag dance classes will start up again at the following times and locations:

Every Wednesday night starting on April 10th and ends on May 15th
Colonial Heights Community Building, 157 Roanoke Ave, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Beginner Lesson: 7:15 pm / Intermediate Lesson: 8:15 pm

Every Thursday night starting on April 11th and ends on May 16th
Colonial Heights Moose Lodge, 170 Moose Ave, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Beginner Lesson: 7:00 pm / Intermediate Lesson: 8:00 pm
**For Moose members and qualified guests:
The Moose requests that any participant that is a guest and is not from the same household consider a Moose membership ($45/year) after two classes.

You can use this form to register for either class:
Spring 2024 Swing Dance Class Registration Form

Feeling the Spark of Collaboration Ignite!

 

Last night's intermediate class was pure magic! As we guided our students through building dances in layers and linked patterns, we witnessed something truly special: the seed of collaboration blossoming within our dance community.

It wasn't just about mastering moves (though those footwork combos were on point!), it was about connecting, responding, and building together. Watching them weave improvisations into each other's sequences, supporting each other with encouraging smiles and playful energy, and creating spontaneous moments of shared joy filled our hearts with so much warmth.

This is exactly what we dreamed of when we introduced this teaching approach. We wanted to encourage communication through movement, to break down barriers between dancers, and to spark a sense of shared ownership in the creative process. And last night, we saw it happen right before our eyes! ✨

We're so grateful for every single student who embraced this journey with us. You inspire us to keep pushing the boundaries of dance, to build a community where connection thrives, and to celebrate the joy of co-creation.

Here's to the future of our dance community, where collaboration ignites creativity and where every dancer feels empowered to add their unique spark to the collective flame!

#dancecommunity #collaboration #joyofdance #improvisation #buildingtogether #inspiredbyyou

P.S. Don't forget to share your favorite moments from last night's class in the comments! We'd love to hear all about your #collaborativecreations!

If you would like to experience the joy of swing and Carolina Shag dancing, come on out to our next beginner sessions that start on January 17th, 2024 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Colonial Heights Community Center!