Classes#
Balboa Basics (Thu 18:30)
Balboa is a swing dance performed in a close embrace, usually to fast-paced music; it is characterized by a blend of subtle weight shifts, creative footwork, and figures that open up the dance position. No prior experience is required for the Balboa Basics course. We aim to share the fundamentals of the dance with you covering everything from steps, figures, posture, and connection to the skills needed for the social dance floor.
Anyone can lead or follow, switch roles, or stick to just one role.
Balboa Mixed (Thu 19:45)
In this course, we will explore how to dance to any tempo in a relaxed way using basic Balboa figures, focusing on improvisation, flow, and the joy of the dance connection. The emphasis is on dancing gently and with a strong connection.
Lindy Hop Basics (Wed 18:30)
Lindy Hop is the most well-known swing dance, originating in African American communities during the 1920s through the 1940s. It is primarily danced in an open position and is characterized by a joyful, spirited feel. Like jazz and swing music, the dance thrives on improvisation, interaction, and connection. We learn basic elements of swing and solo jazz to develop a versatile, musical dance style, while placing great importance on equality, consent, and comfortable connections.
"Switch" means that participants can try out both dance roles (leading and following). However, those who prefer to stick to just leading or just following are welcome to do so.
We use gender-neutral language and aim to create a queer-friendly, open atmosphere.
Lindy Hop Mixed (Thu 18:30)
Swing Out Intensive
The Swingout is the focus of this course. Together, we build it up step by step and add exciting variations. We also experiment with different footwork.
Suitable for all dancers who want to learn the Swingout or deepen their skills.
Lindy Hop Intermediate (Wed 18:30)
This course is designed for those who have a solid grasp of the basics and regularly attend social dances.
Together, we will explore how to make your dancing with others feel even more comfortable by utilizing flow, stretch, and connection, while also trying out new variations. Another goal is to increase the tempo.
Prerequisites: Tuck Turn, Swing Out, a confident 6-count position change, the fundamental principles of leading and following, and a confident transition between 8-count and 6-count dynamics.
Solo Jazz Basics (Thu 19:45)
Charleston: Rhythm & Routine
This solo course is perfect for fans of fast-paced music! This series focuses on Charleston variations drawn from both 1920s Charleston and Lindy Charleston, enabling you to dance in a relaxed way even at higher tempos. We will expand your repertoire, refine your rhythm and flow, and work on smooth transitions between different variations. We will also learn the popular "Mama Stew" routine as a short practice choreography.
Registration#
You can sign up for the classes via our class booking portal: Go to registration
Notes on the Classes#
- Participation in our events requires acceptance and adherence to our Code of Conduct.
- In the classes, dance partners are rotated regularly. If you don't want to rotate, you don't have to.
- You can flexibly choose in class whether you want to practice as Follow or Lead. You can also stick to one role.
- Instructors are encouraged to use gender-neutral language. We generally speak of Leader and Follower (neutral terms), and each person can decide which role they want to dance.
- Classes are held in German, but can be given in English if needed.
- Please arrive on time for classes and allow time for changing clothes and shoes.
- We recommend wearing comfortable, flat, clean sneakers or dance shoes. High shoes/heels are not really suitable.
Notes on the Location#
- The classes take place in our dance studio at Goldschmidtstraße 16. The premises are not wheelchair accessible.
- If you're coming by bike, please don't park directly on the path in front.
- You may not enter the dance floor in street shoes — only dance shoes or clean sports shoes are allowed. You can change your shoes in the entrance area. If you don't have suitable shoes, you're also welcome to dance in socks.
- There are gender-neutral restrooms. One restroom has only individual stalls, the other has urinals and individual stalls. The restrooms are labeled accordingly.