Classes, Dances, & Levels

For schedule, pricing, and locations, please go to the about page.

Class Descriptions

Solo Vernacular Jazz

There a so many dance moves that were created in the 20's through 40's that are really fun and unique, but have been all but forgotten! Maybe you're hip-hop dancer looking for inspiration, or a mom wanting to get out of the house, or a stiff guy wanting to loosen up - this series will empower, excite, and inspire. No experience needed!

Jitterbug Swing 1

A mix of Jitterbug Jive and Lindy Hop, this class is recommended for beginners and anyone without dance experience. This is a great introduction to the basic steps, fundamental moves, partner connection, rhythm, and musicality.

Jitterbug Swing 2

This three-part series is the next step of learning how to really swing dance as we delve into Lindy Hop, Jive, and Charleston. Along with lots of cool, new stuff, our passion is to review and teach material that will enable you to dance more comfortably. If you have previous lindy hop experience or have taking Lindy Hop I, this class is for you.

Jitterbug Swing 3

It's time to explore the wide world of dancing! Musicality, styling, technique, body movement, connection, and challenging moves is the essence of Jitterbug Swing 3. By now you know you love swing dancing, but we also want you to love how you dance and to bring out the best in your partner!

Completion of two parts of Jitterbug Swing 2, or a solid foundation in Lindy Hop and Charleston, or audition required.

Dance Descriptions

Lindy Hop

This is the original swing dance and the dance of choice among swing dancers. It is spirited and playful, done slow and fast - you can shape it into whatever you want.

Jitterbug Jive

Jive is well-known throughout the country, and is taught in grade-school and dance studios. We teach the basics but add more flair than what you'd normally see!

Charleston

The ol' folks will tell you that the Charleston is a crazy, flashy, kicking dance. If you want to Swing, you've got to learn Charleston!

Balboa

The dance is smooth, dignified, and relaxed. Balboa is danced close, which is great for fast tempos and tight ballrooms.

Blues

You know the music - stories of hard times with the idea it'll probably get better. The music carries a groove and rhythm that commands "dance", and the emotion of the music inspires you to feel it.

Class Series and Levels

Flexibility is important. Some classes repeat every 4 weeks, so you only have to wait 4 weeks for the next series. If want to advance quickly, you can take more than 1 class at a time!

To make things simple, the following table summarizes the levels and requirements.

Be advised that this scheme acts as a guide and that some classes (such as Charleston, Lindy, or Balboa) may be offered at a beginner level.

Jitterbug Swing 1 is required before taking Jitterbug Swing 2, Balboa 1, or Charleston 1. Also, if you have an extensive background in solo dance (tap, jazz, contemporary, etc), or if you have several months experience in partnered dance, then you may enter these level 2 classes as well.

At Level 2, there are 3 parts/series. The theme of the series will continually change (ie, a focus on Charleston vs. Blues or Jive), but some content will remain the same to reinforce skills and keep everyone on the same page. Depending on your progress through Level 2, you may proceed on to level 3 typically after 2-3 series.

Level 3 curriculum is determined by the instructors. You can expect both partnered and solo work, and any swing dance we mention at Sugar Swing.

Example progression: Jitterbug Swing 1 -> Jitterbug Swing 2C -> Jitterbug Swing 2A -> Jitterbug Swing 3