How to Perform a Groucho Swing Dance Move

A Groucho swing dance move is a regular part of any traditional Lindy Hop swing dance routine. Named for the incomparable Groucho Marx, the move may actually be referred to by a different name depending on the person to whom you're speaking. Luckily, this is a signature move of the Lindy Hop and is difficult to mistake no matter what you may call it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Perform a Forward Groucho

1. Begin in a closed position. This means that the lead will pull the woman close, with one hand on her back just under the shoulder or on either her side or hip. The other hand will be holding the partner's hand.

2. Step back to begin a rock step on the first beat. Traditionally, the lead will step back with his right foot, and the lady will step back with her left. However, there are many variations on the rock step, some of which will have the lead step forward into his partner's backward rock step. The decision will rely on the style and expression you're trying to achieve, but will not affect the Groucho swing dance move itself.

3. Step forward to complete the rock step on the second beat.

4. Lead the follow in front of you so you are facing each other, and perform a triple step simultaneously. This should be happening on the third and fourth beats.

5. Walk-step forward as your partner walk-steps backward on the fifth and sixth beats.

6. Move forward as you triple step to close the space between you and your partner if you are leading. If you are following, you will perform the triple step while remaining in the same place.

7. End your forward Groucho in the closed position just a few short steps from where you began.

Perform a Reverse Groucho

8. Begin in closed position.

9. Rock-step on the first and second beats in whichever manner is necessary or appropriate for your dance routine.

10. Triple-step on the third and fourth beats.

11. Walk forward if you are the follow of the couple, while the lead walks backward. This is the primary difference between the forward and reverse Grouchos. Perform this walk step on the fifth and sixth beats.

12. Pull the follow to you (if you are the lead) while you triple step in place, instead of stepping forward as you would in a forward Groucho. The follow will triple step her way forward toward you.

Tips & Warnings

• Though swing dancing is a relatively casual form, if you're planning on competing in any dance competitions, you'll want to make sure that your closed form is perfectly framed, since this is the very first thing the audience and judges see as you begin your performance.