Hey Dancers!
I’m currently preparing to teach another local dance lesson and to attend a Balboa festival in Sitges, Spain. I can’t wait to return to the beaches of Sitges (that rhymes!) and dance my heart out. We loved this event last year for the laid back atmosphere and super friendly dancers.
But before that, I’m continuing to build the dance community in my hometown of Ourense, Spain. Between my classes and Pablo and Julia (from Big South Swing), we’re creating a nice little group of lovely dancers.
Video Inspiration
I’ve been watching a lot of solo jazz videos to prepare for my next jazz dance class in Ourense. And this one struck me as a perfect mix of chorus girl energy and just plain good fun.
Watch Lucille Ball, Ginger Rogers, and Lucie Arnaz (Lucille’s daughter) do “The Charleston” on the “Ginger Rodgers Goes to Tea” episode of “Here's Lucy.” This is from 1971 so Ginger and Lucille are both in their 60s!
While watching, take note! These moves are a mix of 1920s style Charleston and late 1930s Broadway style (for example, the big kicks where they touch the ground at 0:48).
Lucy, Ginger & Lucie do “The Charleston”
Song of the Month
I heard the song “Six Appeal” by Charlie Christian at my local monthly dance last week. My feet started moving and remembered how much I love this song.
From the first time I heard it at New York’s Frim Fram Jam, I just wanted to dance to it. The slick guitar solo is some of Charlie Christian’s finest (in my opinion).
Fun facts: This recording is from 1940. It’s composed by Charlie Christian and Benny Goodman. Yup, that’s Lionel Hampton on the vibraphone. And the name for the song comes from the arrangement of the sextet (guitar, clarinet, vibes, piano, bass, drum).
“Six Appeal” by Charlie Christian
Looking for some dance inspiration?
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