"Can You Dance To That?" - A Challenge We Love To Answer

On an early march evening at Atlas42 in Richmond, VA, we found ourselves immersed in the muffled, but vibrant sounds* of the Crain Brothers band. The air buzzed with energy, and the music, mostly a blend of classic rock, filled the smooth concrete dance floor. But amidst the rhythm and revelry, a question kept popping up: "Can you dance to that?"

Our response? A resounding, "Watch!"

It's a question we've heard countless times, often accompanied by a raised eyebrow or a skeptical glance. And it’s a challenge we absolutely adore. Because what we've discovered is that the partnered dance style we've cultivated, a beautiful blend of 6-count and 8-count rhythms influenced by Lindy Hop, Balboa, East & West Coast Swing, Bop, Carolina Shag and others, is remarkably adaptable.

We've learned to listen deeply to the music, to feel the nuances of the rhythm and the emotions woven into the melody. Whether it's a slow, soulful ballad or a high-energy, foot-stomping tune, we find a way to connect, to move in harmony with the music and with each other.

What makes it possible?

• Musicality:

• It's about more than just steps. It's about understanding the music's structure, its peaks and valleys, and letting that guide our movement.

• Connection:

• Partner dancing is a conversation, a dialogue between two people. It's about feeling your partner's energy and responding in real-time.

• Adaptability:

• We've learned to be flexible, to adjust our style and tempo to match the music. We don't force the music into a box; we let it inspire us.

• Joy:

• Most importantly we have fun. The joy of dancing to live music and adapting to the music is a large part of the fun.

It's a beautiful thing to witness the surprise and delight on people's faces when they see us dancing to music they thought was "undanceable." It's a reminder that dance is a universal language, a way to express ourselves and connect with others, regardless of the music's genre or tempo.

So, the next time someone asks, "Can you dance to that?" we'll simply smile and say, "Watch!" Because the answer is almost always, "Yes, we can." And we'll be having a blast doing it.

Call to Action:

• Have you ever danced to unexpected music? Share your experiences in the comments below!

• What is your favorite genre to dance to?

Happy Dancing!

* Sadly, the sound quality forced us to leave after the first set. The venue's PA system was simply too small, leading to excessive volume levels that quickly became distorted and unpleasant. What began as a promising performance deteriorated into an audio nightmare by the end.

Whose Dance Is It Anyway? The Lead, the Follow, and the Magic of Partnership

The Misunderstood "Push": A Lesson in Dance Language

The room buzzed with energy, a mix of nervous laughter and determined footwork. I have noticed many beginner couples with the same frustration when I work with them one-on-one. I hear "He keeps pushing me," or "And when I push her, she just stands there!"

A familiar wave of realization washed over me. This wasn't just a physical misunderstanding; it was a linguistic one. The word "push," so common in everyday language, has no place in the vocabulary of partnered dance. It conjures images of force, of resistance, of a battle rather than a graceful exchange.

"Let's talk about that word 'push'," I interjected. "In dance, we don't push. We suggest. We indicate. We lead." I demonstrated, placing my hand gently on my partner's back, a feather-light touch guiding her into the turn. "It's a conversation, not a command. You're not forcing your partner; you're inviting them to move with you."

The lead will usually go quiet, a sense of understanding settling in. "Think of it like this," I continued. "Imagine you're guiding someone through a crowded room. You wouldn't shove them; you'd gently place your hand on their arm and direct them around obstacles. In dance, it's the same principle, just with more artistry."

That little linguistic shift, from "push" to "suggest," transformed the atmosphere. Suddenly, the tension eased, and the students began to explore the subtle nuances of leading and following. They discovered that true connection wasn't about force, but about a delicate balance of intention and responsiveness. And it was that moment that reminded me, and I hope will remind you, that partnered dancing is a conversation, not a conquest. And as we explore in the blog post above, whose dance is it anyways? It's ours.

The Lead, the Follow, and the Magic of Partnership

Partnered dancing: it's a beautiful, intricate conversation played out with bodies, not words. But within this dialogue, the question often arises: whose dance is it, really? Is it the lead, dictating the moves? Or the follow, adding their own flair? Let's unpack this fascinating dynamic.

The Traditional View: The Lead's Domain

Traditionally, the lead holds the reins. They initiate the steps, guide the direction, and set the overall tone. Think of it as the choreographer in real-time, using subtle cues and physical connection to communicate their intentions. This structure provides a framework, a roadmap for the dance to unfold.

For many beginners, this concept is crucial. It provides a clear structure and a sense of security. The lead learns to communicate with confidence, while the follow learns to interpret those signals with precision.

Beyond Control: The Follow's Essential Contribution

However, to see the follow as merely a passive recipient is a grave misunderstanding. A skilled follow is an active participant, a vital component of the dance's magic. They interpret the lead's signals, adding their own style, musicality, and expression.

Imagine a jazz improvisation: the lead provides the melody, but the follow adds the harmonies and embellishments, creating a richer, more nuanced experience. They can anticipate, respond, and even subtly influence the direction of the dance.

A truly great follow elevates the lead, making them look and feel better. They bring life and vibrancy to the dance, transforming it from a set of steps into a living, breathing expression of connection.

The Dance as a Dialogue: A Shared Creation

Ultimately, the best partnered dances are a dialogue, a give-and-take, a true partnership. It's not about control, but about collaboration. The lead initiates, the follow responds, and together, they create something greater than the sum of their parts.

Think of it as a conversation between two musicians. One proposes a musical phrase, and the other responds with a counter-melody, creating a beautiful harmony. This dynamic exchange is the heart of partnered dancing.

Modern Interpretations: Blurring the Lines

In contemporary dance styles, the traditional roles of lead and follow are often blurred. There's a growing emphasis on fluidity, equality, and shared creativity. Some dances even feature equal roles, where there's no defined lead or follow.

This shift reflects a broader cultural trend towards greater equality and collaboration. It acknowledges that both partners bring unique skills and perspectives to the dance floor.

The Takeaway: It's Our Dance

So, whose dance is it anyway? The answer is: it's ours. It's a shared creation, a testament to the power of connection and collaboration. Whether you're a lead or a follow, remember that you're both essential to the magic of partnered dancing.

Embrace the dialogue, celebrate the partnership, and enjoy the beautiful conversation that unfolds on the dance floor. Because ultimately, the best dances are the ones we create together.

"What Kind of Dance Is That?" The Joy of a Style That Defies Categories

My wife and I love to dance. We've developed a style that's a bit of a melting pot, drawing inspiration from Lindy Hop, Balboa, East Coast Swing, Carolina Shag, West Coast Swing, and even a touch of the Bop. We seamlessly blend these styles, transitioning between them fluidly, creating something that feels uniquely ours. But it also creates a fun, and sometimes puzzling, experience when we're out dancing.

Over the past few months, as we've hit different venues, we've been showered with compliments, which is always lovely. But what's even more interesting is how people describe what they're seeing. It's like a dance Rorschach test!

One night, someone will come up and say, "That looks just like Carolina Shag!" The next venue, a couple will exclaim, "We see you doing some great Chicago Steppin'!" Most recently, we even had someone tell us, "You guys are doing some fantastic DC Hand Dancing!"

It's fascinating, and it got me thinking. Why do people see such different things?

It boils down to a few key factors:

1. The Shared Language of Swing: Many swing dances share a common ancestor, a core vocabulary of movements. The rock step, basic turns, partner connection – these are building blocks across styles. Our dance, as a fusion, naturally incorporates these shared elements. So, if you're familiar with one of these "dialects," you're likely to see something recognizable.

2. Regional Dialects: Just like spoken language, dance styles often have strong regional associations. Carolina Shag hails from the Carolinas, Chicago Steppin' from Chicago, and DC Hand Dancing from, you guessed it, Washington D.C. If you've primarily danced in one of these regions, that's your frame of reference. You're seeing our dance through that lens.

3. Emphasis and Interpretation: Our blended style shifts and changes. One moment, we might be doing something with a strong, grounded pulse and intricate footwork, reminiscent of Carolina Shag. The next, we're flowing smoothly with a close connection, perhaps evoking Chicago Steppin'. People latch onto the elements that resonate most with their own dance experience.

4. The Power of Suggestion: Sometimes, it's a matter of suggestion. Once someone mentions a particular style, others start to see it too, even if it wasn't their initial thought. Human perception is fascinating!

5. The Beauty of Fusion: Ultimately, the most important thing is that our dance is our dance. It's a unique blend, a conversation between different styles. It defies easy categorization, and that's precisely what we love about it.

So, the next time someone asks, "What kind of dance is that?" we can smile and say, "It's a little bit of everything!" It's a chance to share our passion for blending styles and perhaps even introduce them to the joy of "Combo Swing." It's a reminder that dance, like language, is constantly evolving, borrowing, and creating something new and beautiful.

The Rock Step: The Unsung Hero of Swing Dance

Recently, while preparing for a workshop this weekend and reflecting on teaching a class last week, I had a significant realization: the rock step is the linchpin when integrating 8-count Lindy Hop into a dance foundation primarily based on 6-count swing. This seemingly simple step becomes the crucial moment where the rhythm shifts, the energy changes, and the dancers seamlessly transition between these distinct swing dance styles. This blog post will delve into the unique role of the rock step in bridging these dance styles and fostering a deeper understanding of this fundamental element.

The Rock Step

In the vibrant world of swing dancing, where intricate patterns and dazzling acrobatics often steal the show, there's one seemingly simple element that often goes unnoticed: the rock step.

Often overlooked, the rock step is the foundation upon which much of swing dance is built. It's the rhythmic heartbeat, the moment of pause and preparation, and the key to smooth and seamless transitions.

Why is the Rock Step So Important?

• A Moment of Reset: The rock step, with its inherent change in direction or momentum, provides a crucial moment for the lead to:

  • 
    Re-assess: Analyze the music, their partner's response, and the overall flow of the dance.
  • Plan: Decide on the next move or combination based on their assessment.
  • Communicate: Subtle cues within the rock step can signal the upcoming move to their partner.

• Versatility: The rock step is not a one-size-fits-all.

  • A forward rock can initiate a powerful Lindy Hop swingout or a forward traveling step.
  • A backward rock can set up a Balboa tuck turn or a smooth backward connection.
  • A side rock can change direction or prepare for a turn.

• Creative Canvas: The rock step is a canvas for creativity. Leads can experiment with different rhythms, weights, and levels within the rock step to add unique flair and personal expression.

Beyond the Technical:

The rock step is more than just a technical element; it's a moment of connection and communication. It's in the subtle shifts in weight, the slight pauses, and the nuanced cues that the true magic of partner dancing unfolds.

So, the next time you're on the dance floor, pay close attention to the rock step. Embrace its power to reset, to plan, and to express. You might be surprised at how much more nuanced and expressive your dancing becomes.

What are your thoughts on the rock step? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!

Week 2 Dance Class Recap: Leveling Up Our Moves

Hey dance enthusiasts! Week 2 of our Swing, Carolina Shag, and Lindy Hop classes was a blast, and we dove headfirst into some exciting new territory. This week was all about building on the foundations we laid in week 1 and adding some serious flair. Let's take a look at what we covered in each class:

General Concepts (Across All Classes):

No matter which style you're learning, some fundamental principles apply across the board. This week, we reinforced the importance of solidifying the basics. All classes kicked off by revisiting patterns from week 1 – you know, those catchy 6-count patterns, those essential 6 and 8-count rhythms, and of course, the triple step patterns. Practice makes perfect, and revisiting these core moves is crucial for building a strong foundation for more complex steps. We also continued to emphasize the importance of warming up before each class to get our bodies ready to move. And, of course, week 2 marked a clear progression, introducing more intricate patterns and concepts compared to our first week.

Swing Class: The Magic of Connection

Our swing dancers explored the magic of connection this week. It's not just about knowing the steps; it's about truly feeling the music and communicating with your partner, moving as one cohesive unit. As our instructor put it, "It's not just about the steps; it's about feeling the music, communicating with your partner, and moving as one." We also focused on seamless transitions between open and closed positions, adding fluidity and dynamism to our dancing. Learning to navigate the dance floor together as a duo was another key focus. Remember, practice outside of class makes a huge difference, even just a few minutes a day! Listen to your partner, work as a team, and don't be afraid to ask questions. And most importantly, have fun! Swing dance is all about the joy of movement.

Carolina Shag Class: Styling and Unique Steps

Our Carolina Shag students dove into mastering the core "rock step, up together back,
back in place" movement. Once those basics were down, we explored variations of the triple step, including the sailor step, kick-ball-change, and stutter step, which adds a personal touch to your dance. We even introduced some "Elvis Leg" styling – talk about adding some flair! It's amazing how a little stylistic choice can bring so much character to the dance. We grooved to a lively Beach music beat, connecting the dance to its rich cultural heritage.

Lindy Hop Class: Mastering the Swing-out

Lindy Hop lovers tackled the swing-out this week – a foundational move in this energetic dance. We explored different entries and exits of the swing-out (closed to open, open to open, open to closed, and closed to closed), learning how to create variety within this essential pattern. As our instructor mentioned, "These make the swing-out super fun and you can use them in almost any partner dance." We also talked about how Lindy Hop adds its unique flavor to that classic swing beat.

Summary & Takeaways:

Week 2 was a whirlwind of learning and fun! All three classes followed a structured, progressive approach, moving from fundamental steps to more complex patterns and stylistic elements. Partnering was a key theme, especially in our swing class, highlighting the social aspect of partner dancing. And both the Carolina Shag and Lindy Hop classes emphasized individual style, encouraging dancers to express themselves within the framework of the dance. Remember, repetition and practice are key to improvement, so keep practicing those moves! We can't wait to see you on the dance floor next week!

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

Finding Rhythm in Love: How Partner Dancing Can Enhance Your Life

Love, like a good dance, requires rhythm, connection, and a willingness to move together. While the everyday hustle and bustle can sometimes leave little room for romance, learning to partner dance can be a surprisingly powerful way to reignite the spark in your life, whether you're currently in a relationship or not.

More Than Just Steps:

Partner dancing is more than just learning a series of steps. It's a journey of:

• Self-Expression: Dance is a powerful form of self-expression. It allows you to connect with your emotions and move your body in a graceful and joyful way.
• Confidence Building: Learning a new skill and mastering challenging steps can significantly boost your self-confidence.
• Social Connection: Dance studios and classes provide a welcoming and social environment where you can meet new people who share your passion for movement.

Benefits for Singles:

• Improved Social Skills: Partner dancing enhances social skills like communication, interaction, and engaging with others.
• Increased Confidence: As you become more comfortable on the dance floor, you'll gain confidence in social situations.
• New Friendships: Dance classes provide a fantastic opportunity to meet new friends who share your interests.

Benefits for Couples:

• Deepened Intimacy: Close physical contact, the shared breath, the rhythmic movement – partner dancing creates an intimate and sensual experience that strengthens the physical and emotional bond between partners.
• Improved Communication: Dance necessitates constant, subtle communication. You learn to read your partner's body language, anticipate their movements, and respond accordingly. This translates beautifully to everyday interactions, fostering deeper understanding and responsiveness.
• Stress Relief: Physical activity like dancing releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that combat stress and improve overall well-being for both partners.
  

Ready to Give It a Try?

Whether you're seeking a romantic connection, looking to boost your confidence, or simply want to enjoy the joy of movement, partner dancing is a fantastic option.

Have you had this experience while learning to dance or while dancing? If so, please share in the comments and let others know how good it can get!

We have a new series of beginner and intermediate swing, Carolina Shag, and Lindy Hop classes starting up in January 2025! Click the links below to find more info!

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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!

5 C's of Dance: A Path to Mastery

As a dance instructor, I’ve been fascinated by the journey dancers take from beginners to experts. It's more than just learning steps; it's about developing a deep connection with the dance and growing as an individual.

Recently, while attending a USTA (United States Tennis Association) course, I discovered a powerful framework that beautifully aligns with this journey: the 5 C's from the American Athlete Development Model. These principles - Competence, Confidence, Character, Connection, and Creativity - are essential for mastering any skill, including dance.

Let's explore how these 5 C's can guide dancers on their path to excellence:

1. Competence

The foundation of any skill is competence. In dance, this means mastering the basic steps, techniques, and rhythms. As dancers gain proficiency, they build a strong base upon which to develop their skills further.

2. Confidence

As dancers become more competent, their confidence grows. This confidence is essential for taking risks, trying new things, and performing with expression and conviction.

3. Character

Character plays a crucial role in a dancer's development. It includes qualities like respect, discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. These traits contribute to a positive and supportive dance community.

4. Connection

In partner dances like Swing and Carolina Shag, connection is paramount. It involves effective communication between the lead and follow, understanding each other's movements, and creating a harmonious partnership.

5. Creativity

Once dancers have a solid foundation in technique and connection, they can begin to explore their creativity. This involves expressing themselves through their dancing, adding personal touches, and developing their own unique style.

As we embark on our next Swing and Carolina Shag class series, we'll be incorporating these 5 C's into our teaching. By focusing on competence, confidence, character, connection, and creativity, we aim to help dancers not only improve their skills but also develop a deep appreciation for the art of dance.

What do you think about the 5 C's framework? Have you seen how it applies to your own dance journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Get Your Swing Dance On: Upcoming Events from Underhill's Swing and Shag Dance Collective

Are you ready to groove to the rhythm of swing and shag? Underhill's Swing and Shag Dance Collective is excited to announce a series of upcoming events that will have you dancing the night away.

Beginner and Intermediate Classes

• Wednesdays starting September 11th: Beginner class at 7:30 PM and Intermediate class at 8:30 PM at the Colonial Heights Community Building.

• Thursdays starting September 12th: Beginner class at 7:00 PM and Intermediate class at 8:00 PM at the Colonial Heights Moose Lodge.

Friday Night Fas' Dancin'

Join us for a night of fun and dancing on Friday, September 13th at the Colonial Heights Moose Lodge. Enjoy a beginner-friendly lesson at 6:00 PM followed by a DJ dance until 10:00 PM.

Feature Attraction Band

Get ready to rock the night away on Saturday, October 12th with the Feature Attraction Band. This talented group will be playing classic beach music, rhythm and blues, and rock-n-roll at the Colonial Heights Moose Lodge. Tickets will be on sale soon, so stay tuned!

Family-Friendly Dance Night

On Friday, October 25th, we're partnering with the Colonial Heights Recreation and Parks Department to host a family-friendly dance night. Enjoy a dance lesson suitable for ages 6 and up followed by a DJ dance for adults. This is a great opportunity for dancers to practice their skills in a social setting and introduce the community to the incredible opportunities for fun and community connection through partner dancing.

Stay tuned for more announcements and get ready to hit the dance floor! We can't wait to see you there.