Swing Into The Weekend

Friday, July 6, 2007

Sunday lessons get underway at the Zendah Grotto. (Slideshow)

Every Sunday for the past eight years, the Suncoast Swing Gang gathers at the Zendah Grotto in Tampa for lessons and dancing.
Organizers say there's a resurgence in the swing world because it's an activity that's both hip and wholesome.
Although Tampa Bay On Demand reporter Virginia Johnson did not have experience with this type of dancing, she gave the lessons a shot. First, teacher Fran Johns showed the packed class some of the basic moves.
The term "swing dance" refers to a group of dances including Lindy Hop, Charleston, Shag, Balboa, and Blues developed in response to swing and big band music of the 1920s, 30s and 40s.

Virginia finds herself a partner to learn some moves.

Dr. John P. Lenhart, the author of Dance to Live , told Tampa Bay On Demand that dancing produces endorphins which make people happy. "I started dancing in my early 50s and I've noticed a big difference in my energy level and in my psychological well being," said Lenhart. "It allows you to interact with people of the opposite sex in a very safe environment. So you dance with them for one or two dances and then move onto someone else. They are there to dance and get exercise."

Swing Dancing

See the entire story on Tampa Bay On Demand, channel 340 on Bright House Networks digital cable!

According to instructors, there's no need to bring a date or dance partner. There are opportunities at swing dances to meet and dance with plenty of new faces.
As for Virginia, she picked up quickly on the steps and found herself dancing in no time!
In the Tampa Bay area, there are swing dance events several times each week. For information on them, click HERE .