Expanding your dance education
What is West Coast Swing?
West Coast Swing gained popularity because of its refined style and ability to be adapted to contemporary music. During the late 1950s, the dance began to gain national recognition and has continued to grow in popularity until the present day.
After nearly five decades, West Coast Swing has endured the test of time and it’s no surprise why.
This adaptable dance incorporates many forms of swing including the Lindy, Shag, Whip and Push.
Eager to display their talent, versatile dancers are continually innovating creative and interesting movements in swing
​Why we love West Coast Swing (and why you should learn it)
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​Versatile & Practical WCS can be danced to a wide range of tempos and styles of music - slow and sexy, smooth and sophisticated, or fast and rhythmic. You'll be dancing to Top40, R’n’B, classic Swing, Jazz, Funk, Blues, Pop, Country & Western and Hip Hop. You can dance in a club, at a wedding, or in a restaurant (and have the staff tip you for entertaining their guests)!
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It’s an equal partnership dance. WCS is a conversation between each dancer The leader initiates the dance, but the follower can assist and add some zest to the "conversation." This constant interplay keeps this dance fabulously exciting. Focusing on the roles of lead and follow (and not gender), it is “socially acceptable” for two men or two women to dance with each other - referred to as a "degendered dance."
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You can incorporate and apply other dance techniques You can incorporate different techniques from a variety of dances, such as Ballroom, Country, Latin, and Hip Hop, etc.
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Creativity is highly recommended Out of all types of partner dance, West Coast Swing gives dancers the most flexibility when it comes to being creative. People love WCS because it's like a smooth roller coaster ride - once a dancer understands the foundations of pattern, technique, timing and communication, many "surprises" can be added. You may find that you are even surprised by yourself when dancing by spontaneously inventing creative steps and patterns!
