Underhill's Swing and Shag Dance Collective

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 ta...

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 so...

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. B...

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 ...

This 2-hour workshop is your chance to explore the rich history of swing dance through its footwork evolution . Get ready to tap your toes and learn how swing dancing transformed across the decades! Here's what you'll get for your $25: Charleston Craze: Master the iconic Charleston steps of the 1920s, including the side-by-side and the shimmy. *To learn more about the history, here a quick video:  Abbreviated Charleston History - Lindy Hop and Swing Dance Partnered Charleston: Learn how the Charleston transitioned into a fun and flirty partnered dance in the 30s. Balboa Basics: Discover the smooth and close-bodied Balboa style from California, known for its lollies, paddles and more. Swingout Showdown: Explore the footwork differences between East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop, two major swing variations. Timeless Fun: Socialize with fellow swing enthusiasts, learn from experienced instructors, and most importantly, have a blast! Gourmet Pizza: Choose your favorite pizza...

Have you ever watched a couple swing dancing and been captivated by their effortless twirls and infectious energy? Swing dancing is more than just a fun activity; it's a gateway to a more flourishing life.  While achieving ultimate fulfillment involves various aspects, here's how swing dance can significantly contribute: Body and Mind in Harmony: Swing dancing isn't just about fancy footwork, think the Carolina Shag. It's a full-body workout that gets your heart pumping, improves coordination, and boosts flexibility.  The rhythmic nature of the music and the focus required to learn the steps can also elevate your mood and combat stress.  Find Your Tribe: Swing dance classes are a fantastic way to meet new people who share your enthusiasm. This fosters friendships, creates a sense of belonging, and combats feelings of isolation.  Imagine a room filled with individuals eager to learn, laugh, and celebrate the joy of movement together. Confidence Through Movement: Le...

Calling all intermediate swing dancers! Ready to add a dose of wow-factor to your routine? Look no further than the "Reverse & Flow" pattern, a footwork and musicality masterpiece that's guaranteed to turn heads on the dance floor. This exciting combo brings together dynamic lead/follow interplay with two show-stopping elements: 1. Mesmerizing Male Reverse Turns: Ditch the spins and throws, because it's all about smooth, controlled reverse turns for the guys. This technique adds a unique flavor to the dance, showcasing your balance and coordination. 2. Flowing Female Solo: Take center stage with a captivating solo pattern that snakes down the dance slot. This sequence combines elegance and control, highlighting your musicality and footwork finesse. But don't worry, the video doesn't just throw you into the deep end. It breaks down the entire pattern step-by-step, covering: Footwork: Master the intricate footwork, from basic swings to kick-ball-changes a...