About this Event
Thistle Blues Dancing present these new 5 week courses on blues dancing, a style of partnered social dance done to blues and related jazz/soul/funk music!
Taking place on Tuesdays from May 21st til June 25th* at the Salisbury Centre in Edinburgh, these progressive classes will teach you not only how to dance blues but also about blues music, culture and history. With time after the classes to social dance, practice your new moves and make some new friends!
*No classes on June 4th due to venue availability but we may have some social event on this date instead like outdoor dancing.
These courses will cover the two main sub categories of blues dances:
1. Ballroomin' is a style done in Black American ballrooms and dance halls in the United States alongside jazz blues music, characterised by travelling, rhythmic steps and often featuring flashy moves like turns and dips. This style also directly overlaps with famous swing dances like Lindy Hop and Charleston, being danced in the same locations to the slower songs of the famous bands of the swing era.
2. Jukin' refers to the social dancing done in crowded juke joints, live music bars and house parties in the United States to the many many styles of blues music with a large variety of rhythms. With music from countless incredible artists such as B.B. King, Etta James, Ray Charles, Muddy Waters, Big Mama Thornton and Dr John. In this style there is a big focus on 2 partners dancing together as equals in conversation, riffing off each other's movement.
You can sign up for both courses or just one.
*IN CLASS* - No partner is required and everyone will get the opportunity to dance with each other in both lead and follow roles. Wear comfy clothes and shoes.
Blues as a dance style, often uses a close embrace as the main connection in partnership. Consent will be prioritised at all times. Everyone has the right to say no to a dance and that right must be respected.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Salisbury Centre, 2 Salisbury Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
GBP 20.00 to GBP 45.00
