"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.

"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.

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!