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!

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.

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