CAROLINA SHAG:

Nicknamed "Beach Dancing," the Shag originated on the beaches of South Carolina, particularly Atlantic Beach and Myrtle Beach, in the 1940's. It is danced to Old Motown, Blues, Oldies R&B, and slow to medium tempo Swing music. The Shag showcases fancy footwork and spins with a smooth, flowing feeling. Involving 6 & 8 count patterns mostly danced in a slot, the Shag is reminiscent of the West Coast and East Coast Swing. This dance was named the official state dance of South Carolina in 1984, and has remained popular in the South. You don't have to find a beach for this dance, but you could easily dance the Shag with a drink in your hand and pretend.

EAST COAST SWING/LINDY HOP:
East Coast Swing

A true American dance, it had its origin in Harlem of the 1920's, and has undergone many mutations. Almost every decade has its particular brand of Swing. After Charles Lindbergh's first flight across the Atlantic, it was called the Lindy Hop; shortly after, the Jitterbug evolved; and the advent of Rock 'n' Roll changed the dance again. Most styles contain 6 and 8 count patterns danced to upbeat, foot stomping, and energetic music. Depending on what geographic area you are in, you may hear it called different names such as: Philadelphia Lindy, Savoy Swing, or Carolina shag. East Coast Swing, Jive and West Coast Swing are very current styles. No matter what you like to listen to, you'll find a swing style to suit your taste!

JIVE:

The Jive is Europe's version of the American Jitterbug. The term "Jive" was associated with Cab Calloway's Hepsters Jive Talk and was influencing the music and dancing of the era. During World War II, much of this "Jive Talk" crossed the Atlantic and spread throughout England and the rest of Europe. Today, in the U.S., it is taught mostly in the Latin Section of the International Style. It has a rock step first with an exaggerated bounce…add kicks and flicks and you've got one heck of a workout. Not to be shied away from, the Jive is fun, flirty and full of sass!

WEST COAST SWING:
West Coast Swing

Known as the "Sophisticated Swing," West Coast Swing incorporates slinky, smooth and sexy moves to Soul, Blues and Contemporary music. This dance began in Blues clubs in the 1940's, originating from the Lindy Hop. Since then, each region has developed a style and name for this slotted Swing dance. Examples are: The Texas Push, Chicago Steppin, and D.C. Hand Dancing. Whatever you call it, the West Coast Swing is "the" Swing Dance for today's music and is hotter than ever!