Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you take a class from us, Sugar Swing wants your needs and goals to be met: we provide a great place for learning and socializing, and you don't need to bring a partner. Instead of being treated as 'just another student', we will take the time to be personal with you!

From beginner to advanced, Sugar Swing offers classes for your level. It's a perfect setup: 1 hour 15 minutes per lesson for 4 lessons - and that's it! If you enjoyed the class, you can always take the next level.

Facilities

Classes will typically be held at 10139-87 Ave, Strathcona Hall(Click for map). Located just off Whyte Ave, this newly-renovated hall is probably the nicest hall in the city! This beautiful facility has mirrors, wood paneling, and gorgeous hardwood floors.

Membership

The annual cost of a membership is $20, and immediately you may apply the membership discounts of $10 off all classes and $3 off every Sugar Foot Stomp, and all events. You also gain access to an extensive video library of lessons, clips, class summaries.

Enrollment

We cap enrollment for a class at 24 students. We believe that having smaller class sizes will allow the instructors to solidify ideas, keep the classes running smoothly, and create a strong learning environment.

Partner?

No partner required! What? How does this work? First, we rotate leads and follows (ie, guys and girls) in class. Secondly, enrolment ensures we don't have more than 2-3 people out of rotation. Honestly, the girl/guy ratios have yet to be a problem. Finally, if there is a shortage, the instructors themselves will become part of the rotation.

You have a partner and want to learn and dance with them? Do not worry - we skew the rotation timing so that you end up spending more time with your partner.

Activity, Shoes, Clothing, Etcetera

Although swing dancing can be exertive, the lessons are not overly exertive. We teach material you can social dance with and really enjoy - nothing really fast, no crazy aerials, or anything dangerous. Footwear - mobility, comfortable, and it should not stick (though masking tape works wonders). Clothing - wear whatever you would for going out in public. As long as you're clean and not unsightly, you will be fine. Good hygene is encouraged - this cuts down on illnesses, and your partner will appreciate minty.

Aerials

Due to several reasons (risk of injury, requirement of a partner, requirements of strength and skill), we do not teach aerials in our beginner-level classes. Occasionally we will teach an aerials class to intermediate-level students

Why do people swing dance?

There are many reasons why someone would want to learn swing dancing.

• Keeps you fit without being too strenuous.
• The music is very enjoyable to listen to.
• Dancing connected with another person is much more interpersonal.
• It is a very social dance, intended for enjoyment rather than sport.
• It can be easy, it can be hard... it all depends on how far you want to take it.
• There is always something new to learn!

Most swing dancers today do not compete very often, if at all. They are mostly seen dancing socially or as part of performances. However, any competitions that are held, are quite amazing to watch. Swing dancing (especially Lindy Hop) has become a very diverse and matured art form. Nonetheless, dancing is fun and cool. There are swing dance clubs in practically every major city - some are small, others are large. Check out the links page to see what goes on in other places.

Travelling is a key aspect in swing dancing. Many individuals go on dancing excursions to other cities to take part in weekend workshops for lessons or just social dancing.