Our Mission

Underhill's Swing and Shag Dance Collective's mission is to rekindle the social connection and joy of partner dancing by providing accessible instruction, promoting public dance events, and empowering a network of passionate instructors and ambassadors to bring swing and shag back into the heart of our communities. We envision a future where partner dancing is a thriving and inclusive cultural experience, enriching communities through spontaneous public dance events, fostering intergenerational connection, and instilling a lifelong love of movement.

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

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.


Monday, September 2, 2024

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.




Dreaming of Swing and Carolina Shag in Our Community: Join the Vision!

Hey everyone, Roger & Denise Underhill here, and we wanted to share something we've been dreaming about: bringing the joy of swing a...