How to Choreograph a Swing Dance Routine

Swing dancing is an American pastime that dates back to early World War II. Swing dance routines can be fun and very visually impressive given the right components are in place. Creativity and a sense of fun are integral to choreograph a good routine, so here are a few step to get you on your way to choreograph your own jiving swing dance routine.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Acquire a partner. Swing dance routines usually consist of two people so find a partner on your skill level to help you choreograph your routine.

2. Watch videos of authentic swing dancers, or visit a swing dance club to see how the art of swing dancing plays out on the dance floor. Many swing dancers integrate acrobatic and sometimes dangerous stunts in their routines, so judge carefully to your skill and talent level.

3. Listen to a few recordings of good swing music to determine what tempo and style you want your swing dance routine to be. Many swing dance songs employ a fast and driving tempo so be prepared to sweat.

4. Choose a song that suits you and your partners feeling and mood. Choose a lively song at least three to four minutes long in which you can integrate a plethora of swing moves.

5. Pick a style for your dance. Swing dancing has different substyles within the larger genre of swing from savoy, pony swing, and jive they all have a different look and feel. There are three basic modes of swing western swing, eastern swing and coastal (California) swing.

6. Decide if you want your routine to be more for show or feel. Performance swing dancing is more showy and technically more difficult than social swing dancing which is more about movement and fun.

7. Choreograph your swing dance. Unlike other forms of dance, it's not advisable to choreograph your swing dance too much, and its better to see what comes from experimentation. However you can develop a skeleton of eight counts to help you and your partner establish a flow and rhythm.

Tips & Warnings

• The clothing of swing dance helps to add to the feeling of swing, so try practicing or even choreographing your routine in traditional swing gear.
• If you are a first time swing dance choreographer, you might try visiting a swing dance class. You will get inspiration and an idea of basic swing steps you can employ in your routine.
• You may see a lot of acrobatics in some swing routines. Be warned that many swing routines are quite dangerous and there is a risk of injury.

Resources

• Connect with other swing enthusiasts.
• Learn swing dance with the instructional videos.
• Learn about the history of swing dancing.