what happens at a class?
Curious about what attending a Lindy Hop class is like? Here’s a little guide to what to expect when you attend classes in our community.
when you arrive
When you arrive at class for the first time, you’ll be met by one of the teachers at the door, who’ll take your name for check in. Your online registration will be checked, and you’ll be invited into the hall. It’s natural to feel a bit shy when you arrive, but you can chat to other attendees while you wait for class to begin - they' probably feel the same as you!
The venue will have a clear dance floor for class, with some area for you to put your coat/bag out of the way e.g. on chairs/windowsills. There are gender neutral toilets (with individual stalls) available in the venue. The room is usually brightly lit and windows/doors will be opened where possible to increase ventilation.
during class
All dance classes begin with a simple warm up, continue with dancing explorations, and then end with a final social dance that brings us all together.
If it’s a partner dance like Lindy Hop, we rotate partners in class in a big circle. This is a great way to work on our communication and improvisation skills as well as meet new people.
Our Solo Jazz classes may work on choreography, improvising, or partnering with other people and playing games.
Throughout the class, you’re encouraged to ask questions and collaborate with other people - your teachers will be present throughout, keeping an eye out for any difficulties, providing guidance and supporting your learning. If you have questions you want to ask when the music is playing, feel free to wave over a teacher for help.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated - there’s water available for refilling water bottles available in the venue so you can help yourself to water whenever you need it.
after class
After class there might be social dancing or practice time, or class attendees might all go off for a drink or a snack in the bar (if we’re in Chapter) or at a nearby pub (if we’re in St Mary’s). Folks will usually offer an open invitation to everyone, and it’s ok to ask if you can join them. It’s also ok to say “No thank you” if you’d rather not.
We have a community whatsapp group for those who are dancing regularly in Cardiff - ask a fellow dancer for the link. We usually send out a link once you join Level 1 classes. This can be a great way to connect with other dancers, lift share, find out what’s going on locally or join people to attend events outside of Cardiff.
Frequently asked questions
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Check out our Intro to Lindy Hop courses - these are 4 week adventures aimed at helping you get the basics under your belt as well as diving into the history and legacy of swing dance and swing music.
Can’t make a course? You can join us on the first Wednesday of any month at Bootlegger for Wednesday Night Hop, our all levels drop in class!
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Wear clothes you are comfortable moving around in - it can get warm in classes so light layers are often a good shout.
Opt for flat, smooth soled shoes that are comfortable and won’t go flying off! If you’re wearing trainers, avoid ones with too much grip as it can make turning and changing direction challenging.
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No! In fact, most people come on their own! We rotate partners in our Lindy Hop classes so you’ll get a chance to meet and dance with everyone. Lindy Hop is a social, improvised dance and dancing with everyone is a great way to foster communication and community in our practice.
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Intro to Lindy Hop, Level 1, Level 3 and Solo Jazz classes take place in First Space at Chapter, Market Road, Canton. You’ll find us just by the cinema entrance on the ground floor. There is free parking available behind the building.
Level 1 and Level 2 classes also take place at St Mary’s Hall on Talbot Street, Pontcanna. There is a public car park a few minutes walk away on Severn Road as well as some street parking near the venue.
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We offer Access to Dance Passes to provide free passes to any of our classes for anyone experiencing financial difficulty, no questions asked.
For more details, check out our Access to Dance Page.
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Of course! Lots of people opt for private classes if they can’t make our weekly courses. We offer private tuition for individuals, couples or small groups. Please email jessie@swingproject.co.uk for more details.
“Jessie and Benjie are such fantastic teachers and make it so much fun. The classes are full of laughter as well as dancing!”
“Jessie and Benjie teach with a beautiful ethos, and both have a clear passion for swing that is so infectious. I can’t recommend their classes enough.”
“This was such an enjoyable and supportive class - but beware, it’s addictive!”
“I was flying solo so went along feeling nervous and shy, but left with a huge smile on my face and a new gang of friends.”