What is the Lindy Hop?
Lindy Hop is original swing dance and began in Harlem NYC during the jazz age and is mostly associated with the Savoy Ballroom. The dance style is irreverent and fun but nontheless spectacular to watch with fast turns, kicks, jumps, pecks and flailing hands - Lindy Hop is the most filmed Swing Dance in the movies from the 1920s, 30s & 40s to today... (see 'the Mask', 'Malcolm-X', 'Blast From The Past' even 'Chicken Run').
Lindy Hop is now danced throughout the world from America to Scandanavia and Europe (including the UK). Huge annual events are held such as Sweden's Herrang Dance Camp & the UK's Goodnight Sweetheart, run by the fabulous
Joseph and Trisha, in Hertfordshire.
Frankie Manning, a much revered figure, was there at the Savoy in the beginning, created the first ever 'air steps' (left) and as a member and later choreographer with Whitey's Lindy Hoppers and his own group The Congaroos, appeared in numerous 'soundies' and world tours back in the 1930's & 40's. After being 're-discovered' back in the 1980's, he has won a 'Tony' award for his recent choreography and is still teaching workshops at many of these big events today while now in his 90's!!!
SAD NEWS>>> Frankie Manning: May 26, 1914 - April 27, 2009
It is with great regret that we inform you that legendary lindy hopper and inspiration to tens of thousands of dancers around the world Mr. Frankie Manning passed away earlier this week. Frankie has inspired literally thousands of people to swing dance and this is an extremely sad week saying good bye to our leader and the man who has inspired us in so many ways. Thanks for everything Frankie and we promise to be true to the dance, the wonderful dance you gave us. Rest in Peace.
Styles of Lindy Hop
Hollywood Style AKA Smooth-Style Lindy Hop
Inspired by Dean Collins and can be seen in many 1940's films & clips. It began in 1930's / 40's from Lindy Hop & re-gathered momentum in the 1980's/1990's. It is a "slotted dance" with 6 / 8 Beat patterns, very stylised & good for crowded dance floors.
Hip-Hop Swing
Like all dances (that aren't stifled by a controlling governing body) Lindy Hop continues to evolve - hip-hop swing, funky swing, jive-fusion are all names that describe an emerging style that has grown from a fusion of hip-hop street dancing and lindy.