Name: Social Solo Jazz Workshop with Gabs Novellino
Start: 2026-05-17T13:00:00+01:00
Location: Adélie Studios

Social Solo Jazz Workshop with Gabs Novellino

This open-level workshop is for those who want to find—or reconnect with—the joy of solo dancing as a social practice. Today, Solo Jazz is often associated with competitions and performances, but that’s not how the dance began. As a vernacular dance, Solo Jazz has self-expression and community at its heart.
Just as you might go to a club today to dance to Pop or Hip-Hop with friends, people in the 1920s and '30s did the same with Jazz. In this class, we’ll move away from "executing moves" and focus on how it feels to dance together. We will investigate the social aspects of the dance floor, finding ways to interact, jam, and feel confident moving solo in a room full of people.
What we will work on:
- The Social Heart: Understanding the historical and cultural importance of solo dancing as a social expression.
- Building Confidence: How to feel comfortable and free moving solo while surrounded by others.
- The Art of the Jam: Different ways to interact and play with other dancers on the floor.
- Authentic Connection: How to listen to the music and respond naturally so you don't get "stuck" in your head.
- Finding Joy: Practical ways to rediscover the freedom and fun of solo dancing.
When? May 17, 13:00-15:15
Where? Adélie Studios (121 Chesterton Rd, Cambridge CB4 3AT)
Costs? £20 + includes entry into our Sunday Stomp Fast Dancing Social at the Old Spring right after (15:30-19:00)
Tickets can be bought via DanceCloud: https://cambridge-swing-dance.dancecloud.com/dance/39557.
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Who is Gabriela Novellino?
Gabs started dancing at four years old and has never stopped. While spending a year abroad in Leeds, UK in 2012, she discovered the Jazz dances, fell hopelessly in love, and decided to dedicate her life to this passion. She is a dancer, teacher, choreographer, researcher, DJ and event organizer primarily in Brazil, and other Latin American communities. She specializes mainly in Lindy Hop, Authentic Jazz, 1920s’ Charleston, and Collegiate Shag.
In 2023, she became a Frankie Manning Foundation Scholar and also a part of the team that organized two editions of ILHC Latin America. She also works for iLindy, where she writes blog articles, weekly newsletter, and leads the production of new courses and projects.
Gabs is also a huge history geek and loves to dig deeper into the roots of Jazz music and dance. As a guest in the culture, she honors the opportunity to share the legacy and culture of Black American artists who created this art form.
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Access to Dance: An Access to Dance coupon code is available, giving a £7.5 discount for those who would otherwise be unable to afford to attend. Use the ACCESS2SOLOJAZZ code at the checkout.
Cancellation Policy: No cancellations or refunds unless we find replacement on the waiting list. You may resell your ticket yourself, please let us know who the buyer is