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The Dance Cure: Why We’re Answering Dr. Lovatt’s Call

Have you ever stood on the edge of a dance floor, watching couples spin effortlessly, and thought to yourself, “I am just not that kind of person” ? If so, you aren't alone. You are suffering from a cultural symptom that Dr. Peter Lovatt—a psychologist and passionate advocate known as "Dr. Dance"—has spent years trying to heal. Recently, we came across a quote, in a BBC piece "Why Dance Is Key To Our Humanity" , by Dr. Peter Lovatt, author of The Dance Cure , that perfectly articulates the battle we are fighting here at Underhill’s Swing and Shag Collective. He says: “A large portion of society thinks that they are not the right type of person to dance. Because we take something that’s really fundamental and natural and expressive in movement, and then we codify it. We make it very strict, We judge people for it. People feel self-conscious when they do it, and then people stop doing it.” At Underhill’s Swing and Shag Collective, we consider Dr. Lovatt a partner ...

What Can You Expect from a 6-Week Beginner Swing & Shag Dance Class Series?

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From Wallflower to Wall-to-Wall Swingin': Your Beginner Dance Class Adventure Awaits! Have you ever dreamed of gliding across the dance floor like a scene from a classic Hollywood movie? Do the infectious rhythms of swing or dance music make your toes tap uncontrollably? Then strap on your dancing shoes and join us for an unforgettable journey – the Beginner Swing Dance Class Adventure! From Shy Steps to Show-Stopping Styles: Don't worry if you have two left feet. Our beginner classes are designed for absolute newbies, welcoming you with open arms (and plenty of patience!). We'll start with the fundamentals, breaking down those rock steps, triple steps, and fancy footwork into easy-to-follow chunks. Soon, you'll be seamlessly weaving them together into smooth sequences and dazzling moves. But Hold Onto Your Partner! (Or Find One!) Swing dance isn't just about the steps, it's about connection and communication. We'll guide you through the essential roles of ...

Did You Know That the Carolina Shag is a Form of Swing Dance?

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The Carolina Shag is a fast-paced, upbeat dance that originated in the Carolinas in the 1940s. It is danced to beach music, which is a mix of country, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll. The Shag is known for its quick footwork and flashy moves. While the Shag is a unique dance in its own right, it is also rooted in the tradition of swing dancing. Swing dancing is a broad term that encompasses many different styles of dance, including the Shag, Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Balboa. Swing dances are all characterized by their syncopated rhythms and playful movements. If you are a fan of swing dancing, or if you are looking for a new and exciting dance to learn, then the Carolina Shag is a great option. The Shag is a fun and challenging dance that can be enjoyed by dancers of all skill levels. Here are some of the benefits of learning the Carolina Shag: It's a great way to get exercise. It's a fun and social dance. It's relatively easy to learn. It's a versatile dance that...