Welcome to Social Dance Network Ireland, a resource for dancers, organisations, djs, bands, teachers and dance professionals.
Use Social Dance Network Ireland to find dance events in your area or when you are travelling. If you run dance events why not list them with us so dancers can find you.
Music Styles Played: rock & roll, R&B, rockabilly, Swing and Jump blues but also Country, 60’s garage, Northern Soul and even some alt 80’s
Gigs
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the DJ before attending a gig.
Sunday Dance Dice
Venue: Dice Bar, Queen Street, Dublin 7
Every Sunday, 8pm with DJ Oona Admission: Free
Ray Collins Hot Club
Rock n Roll, Swing & Honking Rhythm and Blues
- Support Oona & The Devils
- Special Guest DJ, Miss Aloha (Hula Boogie, London)
Venue: The Sugar Club, 8 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2
Sat 16th Jan, 7:30pm
Admission: €17.50 each (or 2 for €30) in advance: Tickets
Website: http://www.shebeenchic.ie Address: 4 South Great Georges Street, Dublin 2
Shebeen Chic is a restaurant, bar & music venue with live entertainment 7 nights a week.
Upstairs the restaurant serves simple, seasonal, locally sourced, tasty Irish food in a lively bohemian space. A private dining room off the ground floor has one large table and its own kitchen sink! making it the perfect spot for a private party. Upstairs the long bar serves perfect pints & smashing cocktails with live entertainment every night from Trad to Jazz……
The downstairs music venue is home to some of the best comedy, cabaret & live gigs on the Dublin scene.
Gigs
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the organiser before attending a gig
Tue 22nd Dec: Garret Baker, 9pm, Admission: €5
Tue 22nd Dec: Niall C Lawlor, 9pm, Admission: Free
Wed 23rd Dec: Ukulele Xmas Party, Window 6pm
Wed 23rd Dec: DJ Scott Mc Naughton, 9pm, Admission: Free
Sat 26th Dec: The Recession Club, 9pm, Resident Host DJ Kev
Sun 27th Dec: The Jazz Globetrotters, 9pm, Admission: Free
Mon 28th Dec: Trad Sesuin, 9pm, Admission: Free
Tue 29th Dec: Niall C Lawlor, 9pm, Admission: Free
Wed 30th Dec: Scott Mc Naughton, 9pm, Put your dancing shoes on
Thu 31st Dec: Shindig New Years Party Tunes for Party People, 9pm, Admission: Free
Pressure Drop an 8 Piece 2-Tone/Ska Band was established in the summer 2009, consisting of:
• Kevin (lead vocals/ trumpet) – Kevin was lead swinger with Ska Express” from Wexford
• Markie (bass) – Markie is an ex-member of the Dublin Ska Outfit “Gangsters”
• Mark (lead guitar/ backing vocals)
• Con (tenor sax/ guitar)
• Neicy (alto sax)
• Cyril (trumpet)
• Derek (drums)
• Steve (keys)
Having played in numerous popular and succesful Ska bands the lads (and woman!!!) decided to come together. With rehearsal’s currently going strong the group are looking forward to hitting the scene with a bang later in the year. Bringing you the best of the best in ska with an energy filled show not to be missed!!!
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the band before attending a gig.
Jan 23rd Halfwayhouse Ballycogley Co. wexford.
Jan 29th WhiteWater , Newbridge Co. Kildare.
Dublin based drummer with many years of experience in different styles and genres, can provide you proffessional drumming service, tailored to your needs.
Works with both originals and covers bands, currently available for recording and gigging sessions, tours, drum tution.
Closing the successful year highlited with multiple perfomances on Knockanstockan festival, Electric Picnic, Absolut Fringe Festival, residencies in Whelans and Tripod, you can check him out on 31.12.09. in The Village, preforming on New Years Show in 3D.
Each audience member will be given 3D glasses to experience the awesome power of the “3D Opti-Tron”, a newly developed form of 3D, using multiples screens at different angles. Be prepared to be taken to a new dimension!
Since the tender of age of 4 years old Craig Smith has been a dedicated and loyal fan to The King, Mr. Elvis Presley. His love for the music and mind-blowing performances that Elvis delivered naturally inspired Craig to enter the world of show business and take to the stage as The Memphis King. Having studied The King’s every move and vocal fluctuation, Craig Smith is able to impersonate Elvis to a tee and leaves audiences gasping for more in every show he plays.
Craig Memphis King has been to Graceland 8 times in the last 4 years most recently having been there for the 32nd anniversary of The Kings death.
He also appeared on Gmtv along with his good freind oggy the dog Hodgkinson(also MK soundman).
MK also had the privalige to get married on the grounds of Graceland on the 7th jan 2005(photos of his visits will be placed on the photo link soon)
Craig has served in the army for 12 years and has always dreamed of being a successful Eta, well he is fulfilling that dream.
Having just completed a very succesful theatre tour Cmk is looking forward to going back on the road so keep checking back for further theatre shows.
Setlist
Craig’s repetoir includes hundreds of Elvis classics such as:
- Can’t Help Falling In Love
- A Little Less Conversation
- Hound Dog
- American Trilogy
- Suspicious Minds,Hurt
- Rubberneckin
- viva las vegas
- Jonny B. Goode
- My Way
- Jailhouse Rock
- Daddy Don’t Cry Daddy
- and many more
Gigs
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the organiser before attending a gig
- Mon 21st Dec – The Pale Pub ( http://www.thepalepub.com/map.html )
• East Coast Swing was derived from the Jitterbug, which grew out of the dance halls of Harlem during the 1920’s. Essentially, the terms East Coast Swing and Jitterbug are synonymous.
• East Coast Swing (6-Count) is intermixable with all forms of swing dancing, though primarily with Lindy Hop
• East Coast Swing is a circular, rotating swing dance that has many wraps, tunnels, and turns.
• The basic step is: rock step, triple step, triple step.
• The music is diverse and includes oldies (Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry), jump blues, country, big band, and top 40.
• East Coast Swing is a versatile dance suitable for both the ballroom and the bar room.
• With a wide range of music to choose from you can swing to almost anything.
• Swing music is written in 4/4 time with a tempo of 140-175 beats per minute. Since this is a quick dance, the steps should be small and light.
• You can’t go wrong with jukebox tunes from Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry.
What’s the difference between East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, and Lindy Hop Swing?
• East Coast Swing, also known as triple step swing, triple timing swing, and jitterbug, has a basic count of 12, 3&4, 5&6. Some folks describe the basic as “rock step, triple step, triple step.” The dance uses 6 and 8 count patterns. It was the standard swing dance of 50’s-era “sock hops.” The music speed is 140-175 beats per minute. This dance has lilt (bounce) and energy. It is generally danced without strict regard to any particular orientation or geometry. It’s easy to learn.
• West Coast Swing is danced in a slot (a linear pattern) to slower music (generally 110-130 beats per minute). It’s a smooth, often sexy dance, and it does not have lilt and bounce. West coast swing dancers consider their dance to be “cooler,” more chic, more sophisticated, and less barbaric than east coast swing. West coast swing can be more difficult to learn because several foot patterns are required and the patterns may contain 6, 8, and 10 or more counts. West coast swing requires a very good sense of timing and connection.
• Lindy Hop Swing is the current rage with young people. Lindy hop swing can involve lots of kicks and aerials (lifts and flips). The dance uses 6 and 8 count patterns. Common figures include the “swing out,” and the Charleston step.
Footwork can have many different forms:
Single Rhythm: Rock-step, step-hold, step-hold
Delayed Single Rhythm (Jump Swing): Rock-step, kick-step, kick-step; or rock-step, tap-step, tap-step
The reasons to choose different footwork are as follows:
• Learning: Beginning dancers can do simple steps easily, but they may struggle with more complex footwork. Advanced dancers may enjoy more complex footwork.
• Tempo: Simpler footwork, such as steps and holds, are easier to do to fast music. Complex footwork makes slow music more interesting.
• Musicality: If the music has very simple rhythm, then kick steps work well. If the music has a more complex rhythm, then triple steps work well. If the music pauses (breaks) then holds work well.
• Variety: It is nice to vary the dance form, so if you use one kind of footwork for a while, you might want to try another form for a while.
Where can I learn?
Classes starting in Dublin (City Centre) & Wexford in January
Contact: alan@danceclub.ie for more information
H-Bomb Boogie – Dublin’s Rockabilly and Rock ‘n’ Roll club
Myspace: www.myspace.com/hbombboogie
H-Bomb Boogie is a fortnightly record hop playing wild and crazy rockin’ sounds – boppers, jivers, strollers, r ‘n’ b shouters, soul stompers, western swingers, low down blues and sleazy instros.
DJ Gavin Mulvey and DJ Tiki Paul play a explosive mix of high octane rockabilly, rock ‘n’ roll and rhythm ‘n’ blues and all manner of retro rockin noise.
50’s b-movie babes and monsters on the big screen.
Gigs
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the organiser before attending a gig
Admission: Free
All gigs take place in the Thomas House, 86 Thomas Street, Dublin 8
Every 2nd Saturday night from 8pm, next show 28th November, 8pm – 12.30am.
Rock Bop Boogie presents a series of Rockabilly/Rock n Roll gigs in Enniscorthy to help us forget about the Recession.
All gigs will take place in The Bailey, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford ( www.thebailey.ie )
Gigs
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the organiser before attending a gig.
Sat 12th Dec – Rock n Roll Christmas Show
Rock Bop Boogie presents one of the best Rock n Roll Christmas Shows in Ireland featuring one of the best Rockabilly bands in the world direct from the UK, “The Hicksville Bombers”.
Supported by Kilkenny’s finest band “TV Jones & the Tomahawks” and DJ Lew Boogie, DJ Gerry’s Jamboree (Northern Ireland) & DJ Moondog
Special Christmas Bonus Live Burlesque featuring top Irish artist “Miss Bella a Go Go”
For a glamorous introduction to the world of burlesque, Agent Lynch will be providing an exclusive workshop at The Morrison Hotel Art Gallery ( www.morrisonhotel.ie ) at 1-3pm on Saturday 21st Nov.
Price: 45 Euros, for booking email: workshop@dublinburlesqueball.ie
Stay overnight at The Morrison on 21st Nov and avail of the special burlesque rate of 120euro for double room. DBB guests only. The rate offered includes breakfast for 1 or 2 people in the room.
Please quote Dublin Burlesque Ball while booking. Limited places available, book yours soon
Further info: http://agentlynch.com/academy/
PART 1: Introduction to Burlesque: (40 mins)
A brief history of burlesque and striptease: Agent Lynch reveal the origins of burlesque and what neo-burlesque means today. Plus Agent Lynch talks about her own favourite burlesque and vintage legends.
The joy of stockings, nylon, and foundation : Agent Lynch is an expert on vintage style underwear (you should see her knicker drawer!) and she will give you her top tips about what styles will make the best of your glorious assets. Oooh I say!
Part 2: Learn your own Goldfinger Bond Girl Burlesque routine: (80 mins)
Agent Lynch will teach in easy-to-follow steps basic moves and secret tricks of the trade to make your own routine that you can take home and master.
Learn:
• Shimmies and shakes!
• Stockings and glove removal!
• Movement and classic ‘Pin-up’ poses!
• Agent Lynch’s signature moves!
Agent Lynch will be bringing a limited supply of authentic 100% nylon stockings, garter belts, and gloves from the wonderful vintage-style lingerie and stocking company ‘Secrets in Lace’. However, please do bring your own set of gloves and stockings if you have them. Also please note ladies: no nudity is required during the class.
Dress Code: Wear your most sparkly dancing heels,your slinkiest dress or skirt (no trousers please and no tops with long sleeves) and the best pout and raised eyebrow you can muster!
Agent Lynch will also be performing at the Dublin Burlesque Ball in the evening of the 21st. For more information see : www.dublinburlesqueball.ie
Testimonials:
• ‘Agent Lynch put all our nerves at ease and soon we were biting our gloves off with glee’ Rebecca Hanson
• ‘My secret mission with Agent Lynch was empowering, inspirational and possibly the most fun you could have in 2 hours, Im in awe of her talent and heavenly beauty. Lynch teaches you how to feel like a million dollars, learning the art of striptease, the strut and shimmy of a true diva and the thought provoking stocking and glove peel. Sassy, Sexy and Seductive from start to finish. Every girl has to experience this feeling! ‘ Kimberly Sanderson
Dublin Burlesque Ball – The Cabaret Festival Presents “A Prelude to Christmas”
Saturday 21st November
The Dublin Burlesque Ball wishes to entice all of you fine burlesquers to slip back into your hot 40’s and 50’s dress, cabaret costumes & risqué frocks to join us once more for our extravagant end of year showpiece.
In honor of the 120th anniversary of the Moulin Rouge, the Dublin Burlesque Ball wishes to host a vintage/cabaret night, Dublin Burlesque Ball’s “A Prelude to Christmas” show on Saturday 21st November at the Art Gallery Morrison Hotel (Lower Ormond Quay D1).
The Dublin Burlesque Ball promises to host our most extravagant, indulgent & elaborate show yet, providing this fair city with a truly worthy event to kick start the year’s Christmas festivities. They have been working tirelessly to bring you the most beautiful and refined starlets from the international Burlesque scene. Prepare yourselves for the finest burlesque acts…
…ladies and gentlemen may I introduce to you:
• Agent Lynch (UK), London’s burlesque bombshell & pin up, back by popular demand after a hugely successful performance in our August show.
• Angela Eve (USA), Chicago’s premier burlesque performer flies in especially for the show.
• Lada Redstar, Born in Yugoslavia, raised in Italy and living in Paris. The Hot pin up from the cold- She is also a producer extraordinaire (organizer and creative director of the Burlesque revue at Sarajevo Film Festival) will be performing her highly sexy, energetic and original routine.
• Kiki Kaboom (UK), Winner of Best Newcomer Award 2009 at the London Burlesque Festival, debuting for the first time in Dublin.
Plus a surprise Male Burlesque Performer, our very own Ireland’s next top Burlesque Star competition winner, exclusive burlesque exhibition from very talented photographer Rick Taylor and many more besides, all hosted once again by our favorite witty Diva Kristin Kapelli.
This is one highly anticipated night of full of extravagance. The Dublin Burlesque Ball hopes to raise a toast once again to their dear old friends and courteously welcome any new guests who wish to experience this high class Pre-Christmas entertainment.
The Dublin Burlesque Ball sincerely hopes you can join them in the sumptuous surroundings of the Morrison Hotel for this extravagant night on the 21st of November.
Doors open at 8pm
Tickets are available from
http://www.dublinburlesqueball.ie
• PayPal
€36euro plus booking fee
• www.ticketmaster.ie
€36 in Ticketron, St. Stephens Green.
€36 plus booking fee when booking by phone/internet or all other outlets.
Corporate Booking Welcome at corporate@dublinburlesqueball.ie
Media Reviews of the Dublin Burlesque Ball
“What better excuse does one need to dress in killer 1940’s costumes, spatz and figure-hugging numbers? Expect high-octane glamour and a group of eclectic revelers.”
- The Dubliner
“An event where Irish Cabaret and Burlesque enthusiasts mix up glitz and glamour with trademark sauciness, the DBB is worth going to for the fashion alone.”
- Stellar
“Moralist Thought Burlesque indecent but our girl found only good clean fun…”
- Daily Irish Mail- Michelle Fleming
“The Place is packed to the rafters with a motley crew of young and old, dressed to the nines, and having the time of their lives”
- Irish Daily Mail
“The Burlesque Ball recreate the glitz and glamour of this spectacular theatrical genre with its origins in nineteenth century music hall entertainments and vaudeville…then you really don’t want to miss the brilliant Dublin Burlesque Ball”
- Herald AM
“Everyone is part of the experience”
- Miss Bijour Hunter ( Burlesque Performer), The Irish Times Magazine
The enduring music of Johnny Cash appeals to all generations. From the rockabilly boogie of Sun studios, through the classic country hits of the 70’s, to the multi-award winning American Recordings, The Folsom Five capture the spirit and sound of the legendary Johnny Cash. This Dublin Five Piece remains true to the original spirit, look, keys, arrangements, and live performance famously recorded in Johnny’s celebrated series of prison concerts!
Whether performing one of Johnny Cash‘s signature outlaw songs or a ballad of the old west, The Folsom Five play with an energy an enthusiasm that is guaranteed to entertain and take you back to the sounds of those magical 1950’s shows that became the birth of Rock’n’Roll. Using slap double bass, retro guitars and replica valve amps they magically recapture the original Cash band atmosphere.
Liam (Lead vocals, acoustic guitar)
Liam has been professionally playing and singing Johnny Cash tunes for the past three years. He has been playing in bands, gigging up and down the country and abroad for many years. On hearing his friends band Aces Wild where putting a Cash tribute band together he instantly volunteered to be the front man.
Fozy (Backing Vocals acoustic guitar)
Foz got into Johnny Cash when he was listening to rockabilly and rock’n’roll, through the music of pioneers such as Carl Perkins Elvis etc., eventually forming his own rockabilly band Aces Wild with bass player Maurice. Deciding on a side project the band came up with a Johnny Cash tribute band The Folsom Five!
Mo (Upright Double bass)
Mo has been playing upright bass since the early 80’s with Red Hot Rockers and Sun 56 and now plays with the rockabilly band Aces Wild with singer Foz. Feeling the Johnny Cash buzz with the film release Walk the Line he jumped at the chance of rockin it up with a Johnny cash tribute band.
Johnny (Lead guitar)
Johnny has been playing the guitar since his early teens. He learned his chops playing along with old 45’s of Johnny Cash and Buddy Holly. Also a member of rockabilly band Aces Wild, he was the natural choice to fill Luther Perkin’s boots in this Johnny Cash tribute band.
Mocker – Drums
Whilst listening to rock’n’roll in his teens Mocker got a taste for Johnny Cash. Picking up the sticks in the 80’s during the rockabilly revival. Mocker’s been playing in bands consistently for the last 20 years. Joining Aces Wild he then joined The Folsom Five with Fozy, Johnny, Liam, and Maurice.
Gigs
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the band before attending a gig.
Sat 28th Nov – Master Deerys, 27-28 Market Street, Monaghan
Fri 11th Dec – The Button Factory ( http://ww2.buttonfactory.ie )
Set List
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL ABOVE LISTED SONG SONGS MAY NOT BE PERFORMED.THEY CAN BE ADDED TO AND SUBTRACTED FROM AT THE BANDS DISCRESION
Folsom Prison Blues
Get Rhythm
Ring of Fire
Understand Your Man
Stripes
San Quentin
Hey Porter
Five Feet High and Rising
25 Minutes To Go
I Still Miss Someone
Rusty Cage
Big river
Tennessee Flat Top Box
When the man Comes Around
One
I Walk The Line
Man In Black
Cry Cry Cry
A Boy Named Sue
Personal Jesus
Sam Hall
Cocaine Blues
Ghost Riders In the Sky
Are you a Band? Why not list your gigs with us so dancers can find you.
From the Liffey Delta, Aces Wild are a staple of the Dublin rockabilly scene.
This hot rockin’ quartet play traditional rockabilly with that shot of Aces Wild magic, resulting in a lively and infectious Neo-Rockabilly style.
With wailin’ guitar, dawghouse bass and infectious beats, this band are a hard working outfit playing kick-ass rockabilly. Their live shows are renowned for their energy and passion.
The band are experiencing growing media attention, featuring on RTE’s Consuming Passions television series and in various publications such as Dublin’s Anaolgue magazine.
The band consists of:
Foz (Lead vocals, rhythm guitar)
A lifelong fan of rockabilly and rock and roll, Foz formed Aces Wild with bass player Mo in 1999. His vocals are reminiscent of original rockabilly stars such as Johnny Burnette. Foz is the lyricist and song writer in the band and writes authentic rockabilly with timeless themes.
Mo (Upright Bass)
Mo began his love affair with rockabilly at an early age. His infectious slap-bass playing is an integral part of the Aces Wild sound.
Johnny (lead guitar)
Johnny plays an Eddie Cohcran style Gretsch 6120. He learned his chops listening to old Johnny Cash and Buddy Holly 45s.
Mocker (Drums)
Mocker is a well-traveled performer having gigged all over the world with his band The Klingonz. Picking up the sticks during the rockabilly revival in the 80s, Mocker joined Aces Wild in 1999.
Album
Aces Wild launched their debut album “Get Gone” last year to wide acclaim and are currently recording their eagerly awaited follow up album.
The album, called ‘Get Gone’, features 13 tracks of original material steeped in traditional 50s Sun Studios era rockabilly with killer riffs and infectious grooves.
The album was recorded in “The Shack” in Dublin and produced by Paul Thomas and Aces Wild
All the songs on this excellent debut album are Aces Wild originals, with the emphasis on up-tempo material. The boppin’ beat prevails throughout a set of songs that will please fans of straight ahead Rockabilly Music with it be traditional or modern style.
The track listing for the debut album “Get Gone” is:
1. High N’ Dry
2. Get Gone
3. Outta my mind
4. I Lose It
5. Hypnotised
6. Rock It
7. Ice Cold Lady
8. Down N’ Dirty
9. Kittens Got Claws
10. Breakdown Blues
11. Destination You
12. Cuss N’ Moan
13. Eye on You
Gigs
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the band before attending a gig.
Sat 21st Nov – The Bailey Enniscorthy Co. Wexford ( http://www.thebailey.ie/ )
Are you a Band? Why not list your gigs with us so dancers can find you.
The Goonz Are Planning a route for the Goonz Dublin custom and classic car cruise for Nov 8th in connection to the Dublin Tattoo Convention.
The Hot Rods and vintage cars will be meeting up at 9.30am at West Coast Coffee temple bar the cruise will be Cruising at 10am running for an hour ending up at the D4 Hotel Ballsbridge for the start of the Dublin tattoo convention.
There will be t-shirts on sale with all proceeds going to the Irish Seal Sanctuary. Donations also welcome
Jump Swing dates back to the late 1990’s swing revival in Southern California: Long Beach and Redondo. Originally termed Retro or Jump or Neo Swing, it followed the regional post-punk, post-rockabilly enthusiasm, as many punk bands and mosh pit dancers converted to swing. The original music featured an up-tempo amalgamation of rock, jump blues, and big band swing – a strong backbeat is characteristic.
Jump Swing has become popular because of the Movie “Swing Kids” and the Gap Commercial looks like a promo for our GSDTA Curriculum. This new variety of Swing has the flavour of the old jitterbug with an easier approach that is FAST, FUN and EASY to learn!
Necessary Background before we JUMP into Jump Swing
Lindy: Basic patterns are all 8 beats, advanced patterns are 6 beats East Coast Swing: Basic patterns are all 6 beats, advanced patterns are 8 beats
Year 2 we are all doing the same patterns.
Jump Swing is simply taking the “Essence” of the look and feel of “SWING” and making it instantly available. By doing Jump Swing first, the student does not go through the “Beginner” look that plagues many dancers. After learning all the variations, it is easy to substitute other RHYTHMS in order to conform to whatever style you wish to portray.
Who Developed Jump Swing?
• Skippy Blair (mother of Jump Swing), saw young dancers jump around during the post rockabilly swing revival of the mid-late 90s. She noted the common practice jumpy 6-count kick pattern, made adaptations, and arranged a syllabus for her teacher workshops. Skippy adopted the name JUMP SWING for her classes, abandoning the original home grown name RETRO SWING. She has helped to spread the dance around the USA. She pioneered her own exceptional instructional approach, popular with many top teachers.
www.swingworld.com
• Sonny Watson compiled some of the Retro Swing with additions in his Retro Swing Video.
www.streetswing.com
What music is Jump Swing Danced To?
The jumpy kick 6 & 8-count patterns segues nicely into Charleston, and feels very satisfying to rockin’ music in any genre, especially tunes with a strong backbeat. A quick overview:
• Up tempo Pop/Rock: Footloose, Part Time Lover, Heat Wave, Walking On Sunshine,
• Jump Blues: Rock This Town, Shake Rattle & Roll,
• Neo Swing: Jump Jive & Wail, If You Can’t Rock Me
• Classic Swing: Sing Sing Sing, Shout And Feel It, Moten Swing, One O’Clock Jump
Where can I learn?
Classes starting in Dublin (City Centre) & Wexford in January
Contact: alan@danceclub.ie for more information
• West Coast Swing is the State Dance of California
History
• West Coast Swing is a contemporary swing dance derived from Lindy Hop. As smoother styles varied throughout the states, West Coast Swing developed in the 1950’s, following the music trend as it veered away from Swing Music.
• WCS is danced to modern pop music – singers like Gaelle, Lisa Shaw, Akon, Justin Timberlake, Duffy, Jennifer Lopez and Chris Brown.
How it works
• West Coast Swing is a smooth partner dance performed to slower tempo music with an emphasis on follower initiated improvisation, tight turns, and rolling footwork. Basic moves include whips and sugar pushes, often stretching into an anchor step.
Why you should West Coast Swing
• This popular modern dance is full of head-turning moves and tricks while intricate footwork adds to the excitement of the dance. If you enjoy modern popular music, smooth dancing, and lower tempos, you should try dancing West Coast Swing!
My West Coast Swing Teacher Training with Skippy Blair
Skippy Blair is the Founder of the Golden State Dance Teachers Association (GSDTA) & Co-Founder & Education Co-ordinator of the World Swing Dance Council (WSDC) http://www.swingdancecouncil.com/
After her years of teaching under Arthur Murray in the ’50s, Skippy became extremely influential in the teaching and development of West Coast Swing. The USA’s top performers and competitors study with her to this day. Skippy observed that only 1 in 500 dancers has that natural quality that “simply takes your breath away.” Why? Her continued reflection and analysis of this topic has led her into the very marrow of dance technique. She has develped teaching methods that have enlightened not only the top few of the dance elite, but even the least talented, on whom most instructors would prefer to simply give up. Info at www.swingworld.com
The name “Western Swing” was being used by Arthur Murray for the dance. That Skippy changed it to West Coast Swing is the least of her achievements.
West Coast 101
In an effort to preserve the fundamentals and characteristics of West Coast Swing, the World Swing Dance Council has delved back into formal Pattern Names & Lists, starting in 1952 – and followed the development and evolution up through 2008, in order to be able to sanction 14 Basic Patterns in West Coast Swing. This was necessary in order to present 14 Patterns that could authentically represent the essence of West Coast Swing. We have had numerous requests over the past 18 years to clarify these basics. This is actually timely because of growing requests, not just across our nation, but world-wide, to provide a BASIC LIST that would serve as the 14 required, compulsory, patterns for a new, Fundamental Competition.
Here is the current proposed list for West Coast Swing 101:
1. Triple Rhythm Break & Anchor
2. Left Side Pass
3. Underarm Turn
4. Underarm with Hand Change
5. Right Side Pass
6. Lady’s Right Turn & Pass (Torque Turn)
7. Turning Basic
8. Throw-Out (from closed position)
9. 4-Beat Starter Step
10. Basic Tuck (from closed position)
11. Push Break (Sugar Push)
12. Two Hand Tuck
13. Release Whip (Basic Whip)
14. Closed Whip
You may already recognise this dance as 4-Count Swing, 4-Count Hustle or even 2-Hand Salsa of the 1970s. You may also recognise this dance similar to Modern Jive (LeRoc or Ceroc®) This dance takes on the look of whatever music is being played. It’s great for Cruises, Weddings, School Classes, or any other social situation where you need or want easy, quick and FUN dancing.
GSDTA taught this dance form from 1977 through 1980’s under the name 2-Hand Salsa. By 1995, with the return of the popularity of Salsa Music, 2-Hand Salsa no longer fit the Salsa picture. Skippy Blair changed the name to Melange, meaning a “Mixture of Things” in French. Melange is the dance that can resemble Country Swing, Latin or even Hustle.
Melange is a dance that EVERY student wherever possible should know Melange before going on to other more complicated RHYTHM dances. It makes the dancer comfortable in any social situation and also teaches a variety of partner moves that support future learning. The Rhythm Pattern is Double-Double and each new pattern starts with a “Rock Step”. All patterns should be counted through 8.
The simplicity of the dance allows students to concentrate on Centering, Movement, Position Changes, Count and Feeling the Music rather than concentrating on Foot Patterns.
This is one dance that could probably make you the “Life of the Party”. As a man, it is easy to lead non-dancers into this dance, simply be letting them march in place. Melange prepares you for various directions that are used in other dances. Most of all it is a FUN dance that is EASY to learn. It is also a wonderful way to get introduced to partner dancing.
Source: www.swingworld.com
Where can I learn?
Classes starting in Dublin (City Centre) & Wexford in January
Contact: alan@danceclub.ie for more information
Motion Study: The Dancer’s Tune-Up and the KEY to “Whole Body Dancing”
• Social and competitive dancers across the nation are experiencing a rapid elevation in skill level by adding this one study to their regularly scheduled dance classes!
• Elements of movement and timing are broken down piece by piece, practiced individually and then incorporated into a jazz-like routine.
• Motion Study classes are designed to improve all social and competitive dances, including Ballroom, Swing, Latin, Night Club Two Step and Hustle.
• Motion Study classes are one of the most efficient and effective ways to improve balance, control, turning, and timing… and to put a feeling of “magic” into your dancing.
• The Motion Study class, more than anything else, will help your dancing, balance, musical interpretation and control.
• The purpose of the class is to work on isolating areas and elements that enhance your individual dancing. It frees the dancer to discover their creativity without the pressure of worrying about a partner.
• Once you begin to discipline and realize your own dance potential, it is easier to build a successful dance relationship with a partner.
• For advanced dancers and beginners alike, it is a foundation for all syncopations, for styling, and body control in any type of dance.
• Teaches you to dance with your whole body, not just your feet.
• Teaches you to connect your dancing with the music—like the professionals!
• Converts the technique you learn in class into a habit so that you can take it out on the dance floor.
• Is also great exercise for strengthening your waist, torso, hips, and thighs!
Motion Study is great for dancers of all levels as it:
• Eliminates that beginner look, imparts style, and elevates the overall dancing level of experienced dancers who desire to be more dynamic and graceful on the dance floor.
• Saves you a lot of agonizing time and money later on when you want to unlearn bad habits.
• Makes you a more dynamic dancer in all of your dances.
• Makes the difference between amateur dancing and champion dancing!
Source: Kate Ford, 1997 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships Showcase Division winner, and Golden State Dance Teachers Association Master Instructor, has been dancing and teaching for over 25 years.
Who developed Motion Study?
• Motion Study was originally developed for professional dancers by internationally renowned Skippy Blair, “the Teachers’ Teacher.”
www.swingworld.com
Clips
Debra Lynn – Motion Study 2-Hour Workshop Review 1
Debra Lynn – Motion Study 2-Hour Workshop Review 2
Debra Lynn – Motion Study 2-Hour Workshop Review 3
Where can I learn?
Classes starting in Dublin (City Centre) & Wexford in January
Contact: alan@danceclub.ie for more information
Niteclub Foxtrot (often referred to as Ballad) is a slow, romantic, sensual dance, where you sway to the music and glide around the dance floor. Niteclub Foxtrot is one of the few dances for those slower songs 60-80 beats per minute.
Niteclub Foxtrot is a social dance that has been danced in every era and in every country but is seldom given a name.
No matter which dance someone wants to learn, most people progress faster if they master the simple basics of Social Dance by learning Niteclub Foxtrot first.
This dance only uses 2 Basic Dance Rhythms and 3 Foot Positions. It is like learning one syllable words before introducing two & three syllable words.
It’s a great dance for developing good timing; the student starts to hear the phrasing in the music and starts to experience a FEELING for musical interpretation.
Nightclub Foxtrot, which is essentially a compact hybrid of American style Foxtrot and basic nightclub slow dancing.
The “nightclub” version of the ballroom dance, the Niteclub Foxtrot is danced to slow music in a 4/4 time meter.
Source: www.swingworld.com
Wedding Dance & Slow Night Club Dancing
This dance is very easy and a perfect dance for weddings or slow night club dancing. Learning this dance will not only add a little flair to your “regular” slow dance, it will also teach the basics of lead and follow in a closed dance position. Knowing this dance will also help when learning the more advanced ballroom dances.
Because the mood of these songs is usually dreamy and romantic, slow dances are very popular nightclub and wedding dance selections.
Yes you really can dance to those ultra slow ballads and you can still do spins and dips! Sadly many people assume that they can only do the “Bear Hug Sway” to really slow music.
Music
Examples include:
“Unforgettable” by Natalie Cole
“Strangers in the Night” by Frank Sinatra
“At Last” by Etta James
“A Kiss to Build a Dream on” by Louis Armstrong
“Kissing a Fool” by Michael Buble.
Where can I learn?
Classes starting in Dublin (City Centre) & Wexford in January
Contact: alan@danceclub.ie for more information
Music Styles Played: Jazz, Blues, Country Swing, Rockabilly (Rock ‘n’ Roll), Doo-wop, RnB & Calypso
Gigs:
Gigs are subject to change without notice – Social Dance Network accepts no responsibility for cancelled gigs – always check with the DJ before attending a gig.
Trixie BEEPBEEP’S BOPSHOP
Every Friday: 10pm to 2am The Bopshop is on a break until 29th Jan Venue: Le Cirk, Dame Street, Dublin 2 ( web: www.lecirk.ie/ ) Admission: Free
The Gramophone Disco
The Gramophone Disco is a magical & romantic world of vintage sounds and visuals. Combining 78 records played on wind up gramophones and classic vinyl records, the listener is transported back to an age where music was heartfelt and spurred one to really dance. Using Victorian, Edwardian, early Modernist art and decor, the visitor is enveloped in an antique world. The Magic Lantern Cinema projects highlights of classic and early film, of both Irish and international production, that are tailor made to marry with the mood of the music. The overall atmosphere is a dizzying party of great music and dancing. It is a civilised sanctuary for those weary of the over stimulated modern world. Playing dirty ditties at a shindig near you soon.
More info: http://www.myspace.com/gramophonedisco
The Twisted Pepper, Middle Abbey Street, Dublin 1
15th Jan 2010, 10pm – 2.30am
Admission: €5 before 11pm, €10 after 11pm
(but guess what? Free to Swing dancers, ref: Alan Doyle, Social Dance Network Ireland)
Are you a DJ? Why not list your gigs with us so dancers can find you.
