What most people don't realize is that Swing dancing is a genre of dances. It's not just one, but many small dances that make up all of Swing. The more dances you know, the more freedom you have. This also means the fun possibilities are endless! The two best dances to start off with for beginners are Lindy Hop and The Jive (Jitterbug). These dances can be taken at the same time as other beginner dances such as Charleston, Blues or Balboa without conflict.
Hepcat Studio's offers a variety of courses ranging from Beginner to Advance. As a new dancer, you have several choices of where to start. First, look for the courses ending in '1' followed by ANY letter. For example Jive 1 A. The '1' indicates that this course is appropriate for beginners, while the letter help differentiate between similar courses. These classes tend to be 6 week courses, which builds off the material of the previous week. The next choice is classes ending in 'All'. For example Lindy Hop All. Classes ending with 'All' are special classes designed to give you a bit more and help integrate you into our dance community. The first half hour of the class focuses on new dancers, basics and simple moves, while the second half focuses on enhancing your moves you just learned. The 'All' classes tend to be 'Drop-In', which gives new dancers the freedom to start any time.
The Lindy Hop is often referred to as the original Swing Dance. This dance is Hepcat Studio's bread and butter, spanning all the way back to the 1920's. This dynamic style of dance is sure to make you look like a pro amongst your friends. It can be danced fast or slow, depending on your preference. Lindy Hop is the most popular style of dancing amongst swing dancers and a great place to begin.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
Are you new to dancing? 'Lindy Hop 1 6-Count' is a great place to begin. While moving at a comfortable pace, 'Lindy Hop 1 6-Count' covers the 6 count foundation needed to dance Lindy Hop. After 6 weeks, you'll definitely be a Hep Cat on the social dance floor. No dance experience required. Dance partners are optional for this class.
In this class, you will learn Lindy Hop's 8 count basics while enjoying music from the Big Band era. 'Lindy Hop 1 8-Count' covers everything you need to make you feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor. There are NO prerequisite for this course, but we do recommended taking 'Lindy Hop 1 6-Count' at some point to round out your Level 1 training. Dance partners are optional for this class unless stated otherwise.
This is the continuation class of 'Lindy Hop 1 8-Count'. We cover all the standard basics to continue you on your Lindy Hop journey. Inside Turn, Outside Turn, Texas Tommy, Tuck Turns and more! Plus techniques! Now that you have your basics, it's time to apply it! Previously taken 'Lindy Hop 1 8-Count' or equivalent is required for this course.
Is this course right for you? 'Lindy Hop 2' instructors assume you know swing-out basics and uses it as a starting point. This course continues to help build your Swing Out so don't feel shy if you're still struggling.
'Lindy Hop 3' or Intermediate/Advance Lindy Hop focuses on strong Lead and Follow techniques. Lindy Hop has more moves than any other dance on this planet and with this course you will open the door to the impossible!!! 'Lindy Hop 2' is required for this course.
This is a special class that requires 'Lindy Hop 1 8-Count' or equivalent . The Swing Rueda is Winnipeg's favorite, dynamic and sassy, social game! A circular dance consisting of a Caller, calling moves and dancers responding, followed by crazy fun partner switching! This course covers all the standard basics to continue you on your Lindy Hop journey. Inside Turn, Outside Turn, Texas Tommy, Tuck Turns and more.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
Is this course right for you? 'Lindy Hop 2 Rueda' instructors assume you know swing-out basics without having to count in your head. We are not expecting you to be great at the swing-out. That's what this class is for!
This style is energetic, fun, and a great way to get your feet wet. Learn how to be a confident lead and incredible follow.
American Jive is an off shoot of the Lindy Hop, created in the 50's for Rock 'n' Roll. You'll be sure to enjoy yourself on the dance floor.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
New to dancing? American Jive is a Rock 'n' Roll style of swing dancing. Utilizing a 6 count basic, this dance is perfect for beginners! You will feel like a pro after just one class! Each Course A, B, and C, is designed for beginners with different beginner moves!
We recommend American Jive Level 1 as a pre-requisite for this course. Intermediate American Jive focuses on strong techniques to take your dancing to a new level. Caution: This couse is challenging even for a veteran dancer.
Try out this dance that digs to the very root and soul of music. Danced to slower tempos, blues is all about keeping things simple. Groove with us as we explore the fundamentals to blues dancing. Be assured, this style will heat up the dance floor!
Great for dancers wanting to learn how to improvise on the dance floor!
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
This high energy, upbeat dance is sure to get your heart pumping and your feet pulsing! It can be danced with a partner or solo. People will be sure to make room for you on the floor.
Charleston is the original swing dance that can be dancing in many styles. Solo Charleston, 20's Charleston (face to face), 30's Charleston (side by side), Tandem or Aeroplane are just some of the different variations we teach.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
A crowd favourite. This high energy, upbeat dance is sure to get your heart pumping and your feet pulsing! It can be danced with a partner or solo.
20's Charleston is the original swing dance. Dancers love this style because it's easier on the knees and danced upright. It's very much in fashion at this moment.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
A new course being offered. Slow Swing is a combination of the Lindy Hop and Blues dancing.
With it's beautiful soulful music, dynamic moves, and strong foundation, it's a perfect combination for anyone wanting to learn to dance!
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
This dance is tight! Balboa became popular because of packed dance floors. This style focuses on maintaining a close connection and making every step count.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
Solo Swing Dancing is a fantastic way to enjoy the music and continue dancing without a partner. Normally solo dancing is danced in a circle. Solo Swing consists of Solo Charleston and/or Authentic Jazz.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
Ever see those guys tossing the girls up into the air? Learn to add that pizzazz to your dancing! Just so we ensure that everyone is having a high flying time, we emphasize fitness, technique, and safety in this class.
We teach the class by building your confidence. Small steps and properly trained spotters!
Aerials are an important part of our dance culture, but must only be danced at the designated times and places. IE Jam Circles.
The above video is taken from YouTube and is intended to inspire you.
| Question | If I miss the first dance class, can I still join! |
| Answer | Yes you can, but we recommend that you contact us and arrange to come a little earlier for the second class, so we can catch you up. If you miss the first two classes, the answer would be no, it's a little hard for you to catch up unless you have a strong dance background. |
| Question | Do you need a dance partner? |
| Answer | Partners are not required, but please feel free to bring a friend, spouse, or family member. We ask that you register a head of time so that we can bring in additional dancers if needed. |
| Question | What kind of clothing do you recommend? |
| Answer | We recommend non-restrictive comfortable clothing. Dance shoes are not required, but please bring a pair of indoor shoes. If you don't have dance shoes, warn out runners' works best. Please be considerate and try not to where perfume or cologne. |
| Question | Is previous dance experience required? |
| Answer | If the course is labeled Level 1, it's designed for beginners with no dance experience. Any course labeled Level 2 and up does require previous dance experience. Please read carfully the posted requirements for those courses. |
| Question | What is the age range of your students? |
| Answer | Hepcat Studio's classes range from young adults and retired. We strongly promote commuity, all are welcome! |
Dancers under the age of 18 require a parental permission before registering for any Hepcat Studio Courses or Workshops.
| Drop-In Pricing | Student | General |
|---|---|---|
| One Class | $1000 | $1200 |
| Whole Evening | $1500 | $2000 |
Unless the class is listed as 'Drop-in Only', Drop-In pricing is only available during the first two weeks of a Level 1 (Beginner), 6 week course.
Assuming that you meet the course prerequisites, Drop-In pricing for Level 2 (Intermediate) and Level 3 (Intermediate/Advance) are welcome throughout the 6 week course.