Soirée démonstration & initiation à la danse swing
By Roxane Nicolas and Alice Mariette
Once a month, the Club tries to organize an introductory dance evening. This way, members can come and groove while trying out different styles of choreography! Last month, everyone gathered to learn Breton dance, in an atmosphere that was as warm as it was relaxed. This time, the Club tried out the steps of a completely different dance: swing.
Meet at 7:30 PM in the FIAP lobby… Volunteers and members are already there, and the evening begins with our traditional Friendship Café. Over a drink, everyone chats, shares their experiences, and exchanges stories. As always, the atmosphere is fantastic during this “giant Friendship Café” (we gathered around 7 or 8 tables!)
Dance Floor Introduction
Everyone is then invited to join the dance floor. Tonight, the “Social Swing System” association is hosting a big Happy Swing Party. Swing, which in English means “swaying,” is danced with a partner!
Origins of Swing
Swing originated in the 1920s with the Charleston. At that time, the Charleston was danced solo, in pairs, or in groups to the lively rhythms of jazz.
Today, swing has evolved into a partner dance, similar to the waltz. “Swinging” encompasses several dance styles, such as Lindy Hop or Balboa, but they all share the same common trait: boundless energy and a touch of fun.
Follow the Rhythm
First, participants are treated to a spectacular demonstration. To a jazz rhythm, the dancing couple flawlessly executes the steps.
Mahdi, a regular at Club activities, jokes, “I think the instructors are really top-notch. I hope I’ll be just as good by the end of the night!” He adds, “I’m going to a swing party tomorrow! So, I’m paying close attention and learning. That way, I’ll feel more confident there.”
A Dance for Two
After dancing together in a circle, the group is divided: girls on one side, boys on the other. Facing each other, they begin learning the swing steps.
Then the couples form, each person searching for their partner. Chan Hee, a young Korean, shares, “I really love partner dances, the connection with the partner!” In a truly relaxed and friendly atmosphere, each couple lets loose to the rhythm of the swing. And it’s going pretty well!
Christian, a young Frenchman and a regular at Club events, exclaims, “With the Club, the activities are always as fun as they are interesting… Plus, it’s innovative because I had never seen this type of dance before!”
The Motto: Sharing
There’s a large crowd, representing many nationalities, and the atmosphere is genuinely warm. Pierre, a member of the Club for 4 months, shares: “I loved the Breton dance night last time, and that’s why I came back.” Alexane, who attends Club activities whenever she can, adds: “I had already participated in the Breton dance, so I wanted to learn another dance. I thought it was great, and the instructors are really talented!” Morad, a young Moroccan, adds: “It was my first time, and I absolutely loved it—it was amazing!”
In short, this swing dance introduction evening was a great success, bringing together enthusiasts and novices from all walks of life in a friendly and festive atmosphere.
The Club continues to stand out for the diversity and originality of its events, offering everyone the opportunity to discover new cultures and disciplines in a warm setting.
We eagerly await the next event, which promises to be just as memorable and enriching for all members.