Swing Dance Inspiration #35
Jazz Ballet with Cyd Charisse, Swing Playlist, Holiday Lesson Special
Hey Dancers!
For my readers who celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope you had a wonderful one! I took part in 2 feasts with other expats here in Spain. Believe it or not, we had turkey at both parties. Although, I’m more of a pie person.
Lesson Special: January
I’m running a holiday private lesson special! Get a loved one, a friend, or yourself the gift of dance (and some laughter).
January Special: 2 virtual private lessons for $90 (one hour each, may be taken consecutively). Must be redeemed between January 2 - 31, 2023. That’s a $20 discount for you!
Virtual private lessons are via Zoom, Google Meet, or Facebook Video Chat. Email me to set-up a private lesson. Lessons are generally available from 9 am - 4 pm EST on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
*The fine print: Lessons must be prepaid by December 31st via Venmo (preferred) or Paypal. Rescheduling allowed with 24 hours notice.
Video Inspiration
As the weather turns colder and the holidays approach it’s the perfect time to cozy up with some classic movies! And of course, many of them feature dancing…
One of my favorites is “Singin’ in the Rain.” Yes, it’s a bit cliche, but it’s a classic for a reason. This movie is weird and wonderful and has incredible dancing. If you haven’t seen it yet, treat yourself and watch it as soon as possible.
My favorite scene is the “Vamp Dance” which features dancer Cyd Charisse and Gene Kelly. This dance not a swing dance. But it blends jazz shapes, styles, and rhythms to create a modern ballet duet. The scene is supposed to take place in 1927, so the flapper style dress and Charisse’s aloof actions reinforce the stereotype of flapper girls’ disdain for socially acceptable behavior.
Cyd Charisse is incredible. As a child, she started taking dance lessons to regain her strength after having polio. For this movie, Gene Kelly specifically chose her because of her extensive dance training.
Cyd Charisse and Gene Kelly in “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952)
Song(s) of the Month
This month, I’ve got something a little different for you. It’s an hour and twelve minute long video that’s a playlist of great swing songs. It’s perfect for playing while you relax during the holidays (or cook up a storm in your kitchen).
I like this particular list because the selection of songs are great, they swing hard, yet they’re all very low-energy songs to set the holiday mood.
I often get asked what my family listens to while we gather for the holidays, and this is what I’d put on if I was the DJ. (When my parents DJ in the kitchen, it’s always Spotify’s “Italian Cooking Music”).
Click Here for the YouTube video link.
Do you need some dance inspiration? Check out my lesson special above!
I teach private lessons online, I’m available for gigs, and I have a video feedback option. Email me to set it up or with any questions. I’m currently located in Ourense, Spain and I’m available for teaching in person (and anywhere in the world online).
Virtual Private lessons are via Google Meet, Zoom, or Facebook Video Chat.
Happy dancing!
Lainey