"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!