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AA Workshop Class Descriptions
A Taste of Charleston, 1930's Style
In this class, we welcome you to the weekend with a quick taste of 1930's Style Charleston, also known as Lindy Charleston or
Savoy Charleston. This is an explosive and highly stylized dance form that is intrinsically related to Lindy Hop, but is also
a complete and exciting dance on its own. We will learn the basic steps, some fun variations, and as many figures as we can
squeeze into the allotted time to get you social dancing Charleston right away!
Lindy Hop Essentials: Making Sense of Rhythms
In this class we will look deeply at the core repertoire of Lindy Hop and begin to dissect it into its component parts. Taking a rhythmic perspective, we will examine the mechanics of both 6 and 8 count footwork patterns, and what makes them make sense in different contexts.
Lindy Hop Essentials: Shape and Flow
This class will begin with exercises explaining the core shape-components of Lindy Hop movement including linear vs. rotational movement, and use those as a jumping off point to explore more complex shapes and how you can use them to create a dynamic, flowing dance.
Total Rhythmic Communication!
This class is about developing a totally flawless form of communication with which you will learn to know for certain that you and your partner are moving together, understanding each step in the same way, even if you're dancing with a complete stranger. We will give you drills you can use time and time again to help build a deep and powerful set of leading and following skills.
Musicality, Form & Phrasing: The Big Picture
This class is an introduction to the structure of swing music, and how you can use that structure to inform your dance (1) psychologically and (2) creatively. After studying a little bit of the theory behind swing music, we will apply that knowledge to the idea of 'pacing yourself' -- finding the balance between using simple, repeatable moves and using 'specialty' moves.
Sweet & Smooth Social Dancing
Music: Diana Krall - I Love Being Here with You
This class is designed for those with some dance experience who are interested in improving the quality of what they do and increase the enjoyment of their partners. We will work on all the skills that go into a really satisfying dance for both partners, regardless of dance background.
Charleston Jackpot!
This class will expand upon the Charleston basic by teaching you the two fundamental turning patterns of Charleston, how to create useful Charleston transitions, and, time permitting, how to put some big and spicy accents into your social Charleston.
Tandem 360
Here we will cover the basics of Tandem Charleston and its associated positions and transitions such as the S-Turn, Chase Charleston, Chase Turns, Right and Left Sendouts, and some exit options. Strongly Recommended Prerequisite: Charleston Jackpot Class; we will definitely be referencing rhythms and patterns from that class to help explain the material from this one!
Acceleration: Fast Dancing Steps and Drills
In this class we will look at the fundamental modes of social Lindy Hop -- Swingouts, 6 Count Turns and Passes, and Charleston -- and show you how to make them work for you at higher tempos. Topics will includes techniques for establishing and maintaining control of your movement, stylizations for fast dancing, and an exploration of alternate footwork possibilities.
Bagel Breakfast / Teacher Training ($20 additional charge)
This interactive workshop will provide useful insights to those who want to refine their teaching,
want to start teaching, or think they might be interested in teaching at some time in the future.
Bagels and cream cheese will be provided.
Teacher training is also availalbe separate from the workshop. If you are interested, please e-mail
us at jaz@jazdance.com.