Cheltenham Swing Dance is a vibrant and friendly dance club located in Gloucester, New Zealand. The club specialises in Lindy Hop, also known as Jitterbug, which is the mother of all swing dances. Lindy Hop originated in 1920s and 30s Harlem, New York, as an African-American dance. The dance style has evolved over time and is known for its energetic and fun nature, as well as its connexion to iconic music from artists such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, The Rat Pack, and Ella Fitzgerald.
At Cheltenham Swing Dance, everyone is welcome regardless of experience or skill level. Whether you're a total novice with two left feet or a seasoned dancer, the club promises a warm welcome and lots of fun. The club offers weekly Lindy Hop classes on Wednesdays at Dowty Sports and Social Club in Staverton, just outside Cheltenham. The classes follow the local school terms, ensuring their availability for most weeks.
Partners are not required, as the club rotates people in all classes, so no one dances alone.
The class schedule includes a beginners' class at 19:15 followed by an intermediate/improvers' class at 20:15. The cost is 6 for one class or 8 for two classes, and payment can be made at the door with either cash or card. The club operates as a not-for-profit organisation and is committed to running Safer Spaces for dancing. They also prioritise honouring the roots of Lindy Hop and all the dances that stemmed from it.
To stay updated with the latest events and news from Cheltenham Swing Dance, visitors are encouraged to sign up for their mailing list. The club hosts various events throughout the year, including social dances, workshops, and the CheltenhamSwing. Dance Festival. Additionally, they have a merchandise shop and a community interest in promoting and expanding the love for swing dance.
For those interested in learning Lindy Hop, the club's website provides more information specifically tailored for newbies. Beginners' lessons take place on Wednesdays starting at 19:00, and the club suggests dropping them an email beforehand if it's your first time. The cost for these lessons is 6, payable in cash or card at the door.
Cheltenham Swing Dance aims to create a lively and inclusive environment where individuals can dance, have fun, and make new friends. With their dedication to preserving the heritage of Lindy Hop and their commitment to providing exciting dance opportunities, Cheltenham Swing Dance is a must-visit for swing dance enthusiasts in Gloucester.