Acrobatics

AERIALS
DIPS ’N TRICKS
ACRO BLUES

As a specialization, swing dances are married with all kinds of acrobatics.
These range from carefully bringing someone slightly out of balance to really flying high in the air, or even doing saltos.

Acrobatics are dangerous and are definitely not allowed during crowded socials and swing parties.
You can imagine what a swinging leg, a flying body, or a turning elbow can cause to others when movements are not perfectly executed.

These energetic acrobatics are mainly performed when the atmosphere during swing parties becomes so ecstatically high that spontaneous so-called “jam circles” are formed, where dancers show their very best as part of the thrill.
Acrobatics are also performed in showcases, performances, and on an empty dance floor.

Acrobatics are part of the energetic style of swing dances in general, but as a specialization, these so-called “aerials” or “dips ’n tricks” require close teamwork between leader and follower in a safe environment with trained teachers.

Lindy Hop

Lindy Hop is an energetic and expressive dance that blends jazz dance, tap, Charleston, and plenty of space for improvisation. Known for its distinctive stretch and bounce technique, it is both playful and highly sophisticated.

Lindy Hop originated in the late 1920s and early 1930s within African American communities in Harlem, New York, particularly at the Savoy Ballroom. Deeply rooted in African American musical traditions, rhythms, and social dance practices, it reflects the creativity, resilience, and joy of Black culture.

The dance takes its name from aviator Charles Lindbergh’s famous nonstop flight from America to Europe in 1927. A newspaper headline proclaimed, “Lindy hops the Atlantic”, inspiring dancers to adopt the name for this exciting new style.

Perfect timing, tension and release, strength, proper education, and clear safety measures are essential ingredients.

From the early stages of swing dancing, Lindy Spirit teachers introduce small, playful acrobatic elements in class to build trust and teamwork.
For example, if a leader sets up an acrobatic move and the follower does not respond, dancers learn to quickly switch to something else—an important part of improvisation.
Or, if a follower is brought out of balance, dancers learn which safety measures they can build in to avoid falling.

Awareness and lots of practice with these acrobatics build confidence between dancers and support the rich creativity of swing dancing—but always, always, with safety as the top priority.

Festivals

Balboa

Balboa is a swing dance with African American roots that developed in Southern California during the 1930s. It was created for dancing to very fast music in crowded ballrooms with limited space and slippery, waxed floors.

There are two main styles: Pure Balboa, which is danced mostly in a close position with detailed footwork, and Bal-Swing, which adds open positions, turns, and more freedom while keeping Balboa’s smooth feeling.

Blues

Blues dance comes from African American communities and is closely connected to blues music and culture. It is usually danced to slower music and can be done solo or with a partner.

Blues dance is grounded and expressive, using movements like hip motion, torso isolation, pauses, and layered rhythms. It allows dancers to show emotion, musical feeling, and personal style, from subtle and calm to deep and powerful.

Solo Jazz

Solo Jazz, also known as Authentic Jazz or Vernacular Jazz is an African American dance style focused on rhythm, musicality, and improvisation. It is danced alone and encourages dancers to express themselves through the music.

Dancers learn classic jazz steps and routines but are encouraged to mix them, play with rhythm, and develop their own style. Solo Jazz celebrates individuality, creativity, and connection to jazz music.

Collegiate Shag

Collegiate Shag is a high-energy swing dance with roots in African American vernacular dance. It became popular with college students in the 1930s, especially because it works well with fast swing music.

The dance is usually done in a closed, slightly offset position with an upright posture. It focuses on quick footwork, strong rhythm, and lots of energy.

Charleston

The Charleston is an African American dance named after the city of Charleston, South Carolina. It became very popular in the 1920s and is known for its lively kicks and swinging footwork, both forward and backward.

The dance grew out of earlier African American traditions, including Juba and other challenge dances. It was later adapted for stage shows and mainstream audiences, especially after appearing in the Broadway show Runnin’ Wild in 1923. Today, Charleston is still danced as part of swing and jazz culture.