Swing Dancing – Lindy Hop

The original Swing Dance!

Lindy Hop is a Black American dance that originated in Harlem, New York City, in the late 1920s.

Lindy Hop, the original swing dance, is joyful, free spirited, and infectious. Sometimes known as Jitterbug, Lindy Hop evolved from the Charleston era and dominated dance halls throughout the Great Depression until World War II. It’s an unabashedly joyful dance, with a solid, flowing style that closely reflects its music — from the late 20s hot Jazz to the early 40s Big Bands.

Lindy Hop is a partnered social dance but you don’t need to bring your own partner. We rotate during the class so that you have a chance to meet and dance with many different people. Partners are connected in a playful lead/follow relationship. The dance evolved along with the new swing music, based on earlier dances such as the Charleston and the Black Bottom, by the African American community in Harlem. Absolutely no experience or partner are required.

The name Lindy Hop was inspired by Charles Lindbergh’s flight to Paris in 1927, when the newspaper headline read: “LINDY HOPS THE ATLANTIC”.

Frankie Manning

We owe much of what we now know as the contemporary Lindy Hop community to Frankie Manning.

Legendary Lindy Hopper Frankie Manning passed away in 2009, just one month before his 95th birthday. His spirit lives on in the hearts and feet of swing dancers around the world. Frankie is remembered and revered for his vital role in the history and revival of swing dancing, as well as for his radiant and charismatic personality.

Learn more about Frankie Manning and get the book, FRANKIE MANNING:AMBASSADOR OF LINDY HOP.