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Summer Speakeasy at Saltdean Lido!
We are incredibly excited to be holding our Summer Speakeasy at the stunning Saltdean Lido on Saturday 3rd May!
Here is everything you need to know about what you can expect on the day, the building history and significance, and importantly, how to book your tickets!
Join us for our Summer Speakeasy at the stunning Saltdean Lido, for an exhilarating dress-up-and-dance event that will transport you back to the Roaring 1920s.
Where: Saltdean Lido, Brighton, BN2 8SP
When: Saturday 3rd May 2025,
Time: 2pm- 5pm
Age: 12+
Tickets are selling fast so click the link below to secure your place. We can’t wait to dance with you there!
What to expect:
As described by previous attendees, the MyCharleston Speakeasy is the “The most inclusive dance event at the Brighton Fringe” so it really is for everyone! Expect to be transported back to the glitz and glamour of the roaring twenties with encapsulating pop-up dance classes, shimmering outfits and dynamic dance performances. Live music from local legends Soultastics will be sure to get your toes tapping as soon as you enter the building (what more could you ask for?!) with classic jazz tunes and a hint of Mambo rhythm.
Past events have featured themes such as Ragtime, New Orleans Jazz, and The Savoy Ballroom Taxis. This year, we’re adding a touch of ‘Spanish Harlem’ to the event. As always, this is a dress-up-and-dance event, so start planning your outfit - you could be the winner of our ‘Best Dressed’ contest!
Historical significance of Saltdean Lido:
Saltdean Lido is a Grade II Listed building, located in the heart of East Sussex, and is an iconic, art-deco style lido that first opened in 1938. It is one of the few remaining lidos of its kind in the UK and has been an integral part of the local community for many years, offering a place for leisure and positive social interaction – with a touch of 20th century nostalgia.
Saltdean Lido was designed by architect Richard Jones in the 1930s and coincided with the broader trend during the interwar period, when British seaside holidays were gaining in popularity. Lidos (open-air swimming pools) were seen as the ideal combination of swimming in safe waters, whilst being near the sea.
During the 1940s and early 1950s, Saltdean Lido was seen as a glamorous destination for those who were seeking a prestigious seaside experience. The Lido was at the heart of social life in the area; attracting both local families and holidaymakers from afar, who were looking to enjoy snippets of seaside life.
As interest in foreign holidays grew, the popularity of lidos country-wide began to decline and as a result, the majority of original lidos across the country no longer exist. Despite Saltdean Lido falling into disrepair, it underwent a stunning restoration and reopened in 2017.
Today, its architecture is considered to be the apogee of lido design; epitomising some of the best elements of the modernist movement, with The 20th Century Society deeming Saltdean Lido as "probably the most architecturally significant open-air pool in the country”. In 2018 it was named by English Heritage as one of the Seven Wonders of The English Seaside.
Why is hosting our Charleston Speakeasy at Saltdean Lido Important?
The Speakeasy, as a concept, was popularised during the 1920-1933 American Prohibition, where alcohol was banned, and secret bars emerged to maintain the popular culture of drinking and dancing. Given the fact that Saltdean Lido was built in the 1930s, holding our annual Speakeasy event there works perfectly, as the Lido’s original art deco ambiance compliments the prohibition-era atmosphere that we create within our events.
Furthermore, hosting our Speakeasy at such an iconic venue, enables the spirit of the past to be revived whilst offering a modern experience; creating a nostalgic atmosphere that mirrors the rich cultural history of the time. It appeals to the allure of the hidden, the exclusive, and the decadent; perfectly aligning with the mystique of a Speakeasy.
Using venues like the Saltdean Lido, highlights its ongoing importance as cultural/social hub, whilst allowing people to experience its uniqueness in a new, innovative way.
Events like our Speakeasy also enable individuals to establish a deeper connection with each other and the venue; fostering a sense of community whilst encouraging cultural appreciation and the preservation of heritage – bringing Saltdean Lido’s history to life in a modern-contemporary context.
We can’t wait to host our event at Saltdean Lido on 3rd May, and take advantage of the unique venue, to create an unforgettable afternoon of music, dance, and entertainment, whilst celebrating local history and maintaining its legacy through introducing future generations to the magic of this vintage venue!
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Intro and edit by Lauren Pascolutti
All That Jazz: All You Need To Know
Join us for our next 5 week Musical Course in Hove or online, where you can learn the iconic All That Jazz routine from Chicago!
Hove details: Tuesdays from 22 April, 7-8pm at Open Space Studios, Hove
Online details: Wednesdays from 23 April at 7pm via Zoom
Visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!
The History and Influence of "All That Jazz" from Chicago
Few musical numbers are as synonymous with a show as "All That Jazz" is with Chicago. From its unforgettable introduction to its timeless choreography, this iconic song has cemented its place as one of the most celebrated openings in musical theatre history.
It's a call to action for a night of indulgence, a promise of excitement, and a glimpse into the decadent world that the musical explores.
Featuring a dazzling combination of jazz, sensuality, and swagger, "All That Jazz" sets the tone for the entire show and has become a cultural touchstone within the musical sphere. Let’s dive into the history of this legendary routine and explore its far-reaching influence on both a musical theatre stage and pop culture.
Watch our own performance here:
The Birth of "All That Jazz"
Picture this, the year is 1975, and the world of Broadway is about to experience a revolution…
The musical Chicago premiered on Broadway, with music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, and choreography by the legendary Bob Fosse. Set in 1920s Chicago, the show explores the lives of two women, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who manipulate the criminal justice system to become famous celebrities.
At the very heart of Chicago is the high-octane, provocative number "All That Jazz." The opening number introduces us to Velma Kelly, the show’s main character and a vaudeville performer who has just been arrested for the double murder of her husband and sister. As she prepares to make her entrance into the criminal spotlight, the song serves as her declaration of confidence, fame, and unapologetic attitude. The jazzy tune is a celebration of all things glitz and glam, wrapped in a sexy, dark, and playful rhythm that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the roaring twenties.
Bob Fosse’s Choreographic Genius
When we think of Chicago, it’s impossible not to think of Bob Fosse’s choreography. His distinct style—characterized by sharp, angular movements, sensual isolation of body parts, and precise, almost exaggerated gestures—was a perfect match for "All That Jazz." The routine, with its intricate dance steps, seductive poses, and rhythmic precision, exemplifies Fosse’s signature flair.
Fosse’s choreography for "All That Jazz" blends elements of vaudeville, burlesque, and jazz dance, creating a routine that feels both timeless and edgy. The number is filled with sharp, provocative movements that emphasize the sensuality of the performers while maintaining a level of sophistication. Velma’s commanding presence is front and centre as she dominates the stage, accompanied by a chorus of backup dancers who mirror her every move. The opening sequence, where Velma struts confidently across the stage, is instantly recognizable—it's an iconic moment in musical theatre history.
This choreography has since become one of the defining elements of Chicago. It sets the tone for the entire show: a celebration of fame, the cost of ambition, and the allure of the criminal underworld. Fosse's mastery of the craft ensures that "All That Jazz" stands out not just as a catchy tune but as a powerful visual statement about the show’s themes of performance, and female empowerment.
The Song's Impact on Chicago and Beyond
"All That Jazz" is more than just the opening number to Chicago—it has become the heartbeat of the entire production. It encapsulates the style, tone, and themes of the show, drawing the audience in with its electrifying energy and provocative message. The number instantly establishes Velma Kelly as a force to be reckoned with, and sets up Chicago as a show about the seductive power of celebrity, manipulation, and the dark side of fame.
When the musical was adapted into a film in 2002, "All That Jazz" became even more iconic, thanks to Catherine Zeta-Jones’ performance as Velma Kelly. The opening sequence in the film is a stunning recreation of the original choreography, with Zeta-Jones’ portrayal of Velma capturing the character’s confidence, wit, and irresistible charm. The film's success, both critically and commercially, brought Chicago back into the spotlight, reintroducing the classic number to a new generation and solidifying "All That Jazz" as an integral part of the cultural lexicon.
Beyond Chicago, "All That Jazz" has had an undeniable impact on popular culture. The song’s jazzy style, catchy rhythm, and sultry lyrics have been covered and referenced in countless performances, TV shows, and films. Its influence extends beyond musical theatre—elements of its style can be seen in the choreography of contemporary artists, and the song itself remains a favourite at jazz clubs and cabaret venues around the world. Its blend of jazz, dance, and showmanship continues to inspire performers and artists across genres.
The Enduring Legacy of "All That Jazz"
The impact of "All That Jazz" can still be felt today. The song’s combination of music, dance, and theatricality has made it a symbol of confidence, sensuality, and the glamour of show business. Velma Kelly’s bold entrance in "All That Jazz" has become an iconic moment in theatre, representing the power and allure of the female protagonist in a male-dominated world. Through Fosse’s choreography and Kander and Ebb’s music, "All That Jazz" speaks to a timeless desire for fame, recognition, and the intoxicating thrill of living on the edge.
As Chicago continues to be performed around the world, "All That Jazz" remains the crown jewel of the production. Whether seen on Broadway, in film, or in countless international productions, the number still has the power to captivate audiences. It’s a quintessential representation of the show’s bold energy, and its legacy as one of musical theatre’s greatest opening numbers that will continue to inspire, entertain and assure future generations of the lasting impact female empowerment can have.
All That Jazz - Previous MyCharleston Class
Join us for our next 5 week Musical Course in Hove or online, where you can learn the iconic All That Jazz routine from Chicago!
Hove details: Tuesdays from 22 April, 7-8pm at Open Space Studios, Hove - Book Now
Online details: Wednesdays from 23 April at 7pm via Zoom
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Course Previews: What's on This April
Spring is well and truly underway, and we have an exciting lineup of 5 week courses after Easter. Our new term begins on 22 April; watch all the course previews here.
Spring is well and truly underway, and we have an exciting lineup of 5 week courses after Easter. Our new term begins on 22 April; watch all the course previews here!
CHARLESTON COURSE - PENCIL FULL OF LEAD
BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE
Take a sneaky peek at our next Open Level Charleston Course coming up in April where we will be dancing to Pencil Full of Lead. This routine is a real crowd pleaser, combining classic choreography with a popular modern track. It’s quirky, upbeat and lots of fun! We run courses online and in the studio locations in the UK.
Available online and in studio. See dates and locations below:
Hove PM - 22 April, 6pm, Open Space Studios
Lewes - 22 April, 6:30pm, The Body Workshop
Portsmouth - 22 April, 7:30pm, CourtX
Online - 23 April, 6pm BST via Zoom
Eastbourne - 23 April, 6:30pm, Leaf Hall
Hove AM - 24 April, 10:30am, Open Space Studios
Brighton - 28 April, 7:30pm The Dance Space
MUSICALS COURSE - ‘ALL THAT JAZZ’ CHICAGO
HOVE ONLINE
Join us for our next Musicals course in April where we will be learning a routine to All That Jazz from Chicago The Musical. Featuring some of the iconic original choreography by Bob Fosse. This routine focuses on defining shapes at a steady pace and is accessible to all. Fishnets optional!
Available online and in studio. See dates and locations below:
PARTNER CHARLESTON - SOME OF THESE DAYS
24 April - Open Space Studios, 6pm - 5 week course
In our next Partner Charleston Course we will be learning a routine to Some Of These Days. This routine is inspired by some West Coast Swing steps and features the iconic Pretzel move! MyCharleston Partner Courses specialise in choreography, allowing you to develop your dance knowledge through building on the routine each week. Join us either as a pair or solo dancer - no partner swapping required!
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - BOOGIE WOOGIE BUGLE BOY
24 April - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 5 week course
We are very excited to announce that in our next Intermediate Charleston course, we will be dancing to the iconic track that is ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’. This was interestingly the most popular tune during World War II, and was picked to coincide with VE Day on 8 May. For this routine, expect an A-Z catalogue of Solo Jazz moves, combining classic moves and combos. Get these under your belt, and you’ll have the knowledge to attend any intermediate Solo Jazz class!
BOOK NOW
Videos: Watch what we got up to in term one 2025
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the first term of 2025! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the first term of the year! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.
Hove Morning Group
Hove Evening Group
Brighton Group
Lewes Group
Eastbourne Group
Portsmouth Group
Another Day of Sun - Musicals Group in Hove
It’s De-Lovely - Partner Charleston
Everything you need to know about ‘Who’s got the Pain’
As featured on the Fosse/Verdon series, “Who’s got the Pain’ was the only film number that Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon performed together. We are very excited to be teaching this number for our next Charleston Musicals Course running from 24th February to the 31st of March both Online and in Brighton & Hove!
As featured on the Fosse/Verdon series, “Who’s got the Pain’ was the only film number that Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon performed together. We are very excited to be teaching this number for our next Charleston Musicals Course running from 24th February to the 31st of March both Online and in Brighton & Hove!
This 6-week Musicals Course is a great opportunity to perfect your inner-Fosse, so you can Jazz-Hands your way into any social dance; making you so copacetic on the dance floor!
Click this link, or visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!
Want to find out more? Read on to discover why this dance is highly celebrated in the world of Jazz!
Historical Context: ‘Hands, Hips, Hats:’
As seen throughout his work, Fosse developed a distinctive choreographic style, wherein many of his routines have dancers sat into one hip with fingers flexed and hiding their eyes beneath a hat. In today’s society this is often mockingly called ‘Jazz hands’ but the terms that Fosse coined was ‘Webbing’ and ‘Spirit Fingers;’ this move is often danced in a sequence with a hat.
Although Fosse did not invent the phrase, Hands, Hips and Hats, the way he put them together and what he made them hint towards (sex, corruption, and falsity) became his in his own right. Since ‘Who’s got the Pain’ has been aired, his iconic style of dance has been imitated on Broadway, the West End and also in Pop Culture videos; most notably in Michael Jackson’s music video Beat It and II Hands II Heaven by Beyoncé; who have folded Fosse’s style into their own.
‘Who’s got the Pain’- Damn Yankees:
Thanks to the high number of streams of the miniseries Fosse/Verdon, Fosse’s name is now back in cultural conversation, as is the 1958 number Who’s got the Pain, featuring Gwen Verdon. At this point in his career, Fosse was still married to his first of three wives, Joan McCracken, but when Verdon was cast as Lola in Damn Yankees, the two created an inseparable bond.
Fun fact: Did you know that Fosse’s love of dancing in hats was in aim to hide his premature balding?
From the very beginning of the routine, Fosse and Verdon embark on a stylistic journey of stereotypical Fosse choreography. Their faces are hidden under their hats, their hips are shunting, and all angles created are crisp and clean. The body isolations, tick-tocks, and perfect synchronisation were all picked up from the African diaspora, adding to the multi-cultural elements of the dance.
This fun, eccentric dance will undoubtedly get your toes tapping as you embark on a voyage through timeless choreography full of Jazzy flare (plus the song is pretty cool too!)
Sign up today, by clicking this link, or visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Everything you need to know about Hot Honey Rag
On Saturday 8th February we are hosting our next Musicals Masterclass, and we could not be more excited for this one because Chicago is coming to Hove! Want to find out more about the history of the routine? Here is everything you need to know…
On Saturday 8th February we are hosting our next Musicals Masterclass, and we could not be more excited for this one because Chicago is coming to Hove! In this two-hour workshop, you will be able put on your finest 1920s Glad-Rags and channel your inner Velma Kelly as you master the iconic routine that is ‘Hot Honey Rag!’
Click this link to secure your place!
Want to find out more? Read on to discover why this routine is loved and celebrated by so many. Why this routine hit the theatres by storm; making it quintessential to the world of Broadway!
Now, we all know that Chicago is one of the most iconic and enduring musicals of all time. Its dazzling choreography, unforgettable songs, and sharp portrayal of crime, fame, and corruption continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Among the standout moments in Chicago is the sizzling "Hot Honey Rag," a show-stopping number that has become a symbol of the musical’s energy and flair. Let's take a closer look at the history and cultural impact of this routine.
Watch our very own routine of ‘Hot Honey Rag’ based on 2002 musical. Choreography by Rob Marshall.
The Origins of "Hot Honey Rag"
"Hot Honey Rag" first graced the stage of Broadway in Chicago, which opened in 1975. Written by John Kander (music) and Fred Ebb (lyrics), the musical is set in 1920s Chicago and tells the story of Roxie Hart, a vaudeville performer who finds herself on trial for murder. Chicago’s sleek and jazzy score pays homage to the Vaudeville and Jazz Age, and "Hot Honey Rag" is one of its standout musical numbers.
The number features a high-energy combination of music and dance that captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties; a time of excess, freedom, and rebellion. Originally, the routine was choreographed by Bob Fosse, whose signature style has gone on to define much of Chicago’s aesthetic. Fosse is known for his attention to detail and his choreography for ‘Hot Honey Rag’ is a blend of Jazz, burlesque, and vaudeville; combining quick footwork, sharp isolations, and suggestive movements in which exude sensuality and confidence. which were seen as highly provocative and daring for the time. In the production of Chicago, these moves translate into a routine that is at once, flirty and intense, and seductive and humorous; therefore upholding the power to captivate audiences around the globe!
Watch Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera perform the 1975 choreography from the musical.
The Song and Its Power
"Hot Honey Rag" is performed in the second act of Chicago and serves as a pivotal moment in the show. Roxie Hart, having gained fame from her murder trial, joins Velma Kelly for the performance. The song itself is a catchy, jazzy tune with playful lyrics about a woman’s desire and the irresistible allure of the “Hot Honey Rag” dance, which provides the perfect backdrop for the choreography to shine!
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Since its debut, Chicago and the "Hot Honey Rag" number have left an indelible mark on musical theatre. The number has become a hallmark of Broadway and beyond, influencing the way subsequent musical theatre productions use choreography to tell a story. The incorporation of female empowerment and feminism within a musical was groundbreaking, and it has paved the way for other shows to explore similar ideals.
In a larger cultural sense, "Hot Honey Rag" is part of a greater conversation about women's agency, the commodification of fame, and the complex relationship between power and seduction. The number’s provocative energy invites us to consider the fine line between performance and reality, and glamour and the darker truths lurking beneath the surface.
As a result, it is clear that ‘Hot Honey Rag’ is more than just a routine from a musical; it is the cultural touchstone that represents the intersection of art, entertainment, and societal expectations; placing influential feminism at the heart of the performance- what more could you ask for?
Now you’ve read the history, and watched the routine what are you waiting for? Click the link or visit www.mycharlestondance.com and secure your place in being able to dance one of the most empowering routines in history!
Location: Open Space Studios, Hove
Dressing up is encouraged!
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Videos: What's on Spring 2025
February is here, and we have an exciting lineup of events this month. Our new term of the year begins on 24th Feb, watch all the previews here.
February is here, and we have an exciting lineup of 6 week courses this month. Our new term of the year begins on 24th Feb, watch all the previews here.
CHARLESTON COURSE - STRUT MISS LIZZIE
BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE
EASTBOURNE
Take a sneaky peek at our next Open Level Charleston Course coming up in February where we be dancing to Strut Miss Lizzie. We run course online and in the studio locations in the UK. See below dates and locations:
Online - 24 Feb, 6pm BST
Brighton - 24 Feb, 7:30pm The Dance Space
Hove PM - 25 Feb, Open Space Studios
Lewes - 25 Feb, 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop
Portsmouth - 25 Feb, 7:30pm, CourtX
Eastbourne - 26 Feb, 6:30pm, Leaf Hal
Hove am - 27 Feb, 10:30am, Open Space Studios
MUSICALS COURSE - ‘WHO’S GOT THE PAIN?’ DAMN YANKEES
HOVE ONLINE
join us in our brand-new musicals course inspired by the 1958 film adaptation of Damn Yankees. We chose this routine as it’s a standout moment in Musical theatre featuring Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon—the only time they performed together on film. The number is an example of Fosse's early choreographic style and we can’t wait to bring it to life both online and in studio
Course available online and instudio
24 Feb - 7pm GMT - Via Zoom
25 Feb - 7pm - Open Space Studios, Hove
PARTNER CHARLESTON - PARLA PIU PIANO
27 Feb - Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course
Take a look at what's in store in our 1920s Partner Charleston Course which runs every Thursday at 6pm. If you fancy giving it a go, you can sign up to the next course either as a pair or solo dancer and join us from 27 Feb for the next course.
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - IT DON’T MEAN A THING
BOOK NOW
27th Feb - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course
We are very excited to share a clip of our next intermediate Charleston routine. Set to the tune ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing’ it’s a real crowd pleaser. Take a little look at what Fiona has planned and join her from 27th Jan, 7pm at Open Space Studios in Hove.
Top Tips For The January Blues
It’s official, today is the most depressing day of the year! So here are our top tips on how to beat the January blues and seasonal depression
It’s official, today is the most depressing day of the year! So here are our top tips on how to beat the January blues and seasonal depression. You might well think we are going to advise you do some dancing to cheer yourself up. There is no doubt about it dancing is great way to lift your mood but when your mojo is low it’s hard to find the motivation to dance. So, what can you do to lift your spirits in these dark winter months? Here are some ideas you can try in the post-holiday slump
Cry It Out
There is a lot of pressure these days to be happy all the time, but being sad and even crying is OK. I recently told a friend I enjoy a good cry sometimes. Her response was fantastic; she said, "Crying is healthy and cathartic. We should never attach shame to crying – it’s natural! Crying makes us remember we are feeling emotional beings.” So big thanks to Andrea for her sound advice. The conversation had been in relation to a podcast which is both brilliant and life-affirming but at the same time it’s a tearjerker. So, get your box of tissues ready and have a listen to ‘Strangers on a Bench’. The presenter Tom Rosenthal approaches a stranger on a park bench and asks if he can sit down next to them and record their conversation. It’s such a simple premise, and the content is incredibly compelling
Music
When my mood is low, I find I lack energy, so I’m not inspired to dance even though I know it’s good for me. What can help is as a stress relief technique is to listen to music, and I create as many opportunities as I can in my day to hear new tunes. My go-to platform is the fabulous French music station FIP. Brighton fell in love with FIP back in the days of short-wave radio as the signal could be picked up here. There is very little chat, and the music style is a mix of Jazz, Blues, Hip-Hop, Soul, and World Music. They play unusual versions of well-known songs, and I love the way it can jump from some crazy Avante Garde Opera to a super funky tune. Now everything is digital; you can download the app and listen at your leisure. Be warned—your Shazam app will be busy!
Daydreaming
I don’t like making plans in January. When my mood is low, I don’t want to make big decisions or commit to things. However, that doesn’t stop me from planning my imaginary holidays. So far this year, I’ve explored the souks of Morocco and gone to my friend Patti’s wedding in America, where I chatted to all her funny American friends. It’s free, there is no booking fee, and you can teleport home the moment your kid starts shouting “Mum”!
Ok, that bit wasn’t my imagination! But as the subject of kids has come up, my son is great at getting me imagining: “What supercar would you get, Mum?” “If you won the lottery, how would you rebuild our house as a mansion?” The imagination only needs a little tickle of a question, and it comes alive.
As I was writing this, I did a quick Google search in which I typed “Top questions for stirring your imagination” into the search bar. Four clicks later, I found the question I’m about to share with you because it really made me laugh …
Question: What kind of rides would be in a theme park for snails?
Move Through The Blues
You didn’t really think I would write all this and not recommend a good dance to lift your mood. I still think it’s hard to find the motivation to dance when you are feeling low, which is why finding an dance class could be the key to getting yourself up and moving.
Dance classes for adults are widely available, and there is a broad range of styles. Whilst drop-in classes seem more convenient, the drawback is you will have to find the motivation to get yourself there each week. When it’s cold and dark, that’s going to be hard. Booking a dance course makes it more likely that you will attend because you’ve committed and paid.
Two key things when looking for a class—and I think this is more important than the dance style itself—are finding a class at a convenient location and time of day.
Dancing is such a fun way to get fit, improve mood, and learn a skill, so it’s good for the brain too. Most dance classes have a social aspect, and connecting with people makes us feel better about ourselves and the world around us. Whatever mood I’m in when I begin a dance class, I am always happier and more energised by the end of it.
So, if dance lifts your mood, you could try a class. Or, if you want to try it now, I have one final tune I would like to recommend. It’s a Fado tune, which is a style of music from Portugal known for being mournful. This particular piece is unusual as the melody is upbeat, and the lyrics play with the idea that you can enjoy feeling sad or even feel sad about being happy. It breaks down the duality of happiness and sadness and celebrates the emotions of both co-existing.
This blog has been written to advise those who feel their mood has been low recently. If you have been affected by low mood over a longer period of time, please seek professional advice. We have also provided a link to resources you may find helpful:
Support for Mental Health
Health benefits of Charleston dancing
It’s no secret that dancing brings a wide range of physical and mental health benefits with it, which is why dancing is a fun way to stay fit for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. We would like to show you some of the many health benefits of Charleston dancing in this blog, so keep reading if you want to know more.
It’s no secret that dancing offers a wealth of physical and mental health benefits, making it an enjoyable way to stay active for people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Charleston dancing, in particular, provides a full-body and mind workout that can positively impact your quality of life, body image, and mood. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to help reduce depression and ease anxiety.
Benefits of Dancing for your Brain
Dancing isn’t just great for your body—it’s a workout for your brain, too! Research from Coventry University highlights that regular dance practice can improve spatial working memory (the ability to hold and replicate visual information) by an impressive 18%, along with boosting other areas of cognitive function.
For older adults, the benefits are even more significant. Frequent dancing has been associated with a 76% reduced risk of developing dementia, making it a valuable tool for maintaining brain health as we age. Brain imaging studies also show that dancing increases the volume of the hippocampus, a critical area for spatial memory, more effectively than traditional fitness exercises.
Additionally, dancing enhances white matter in the brain, which supports processing speed and memory. Remarkably, these improvements in white matter are not observed in other forms of exercise, emphasizing how unique dancing is in its ability to boost cognitive health.
For more insights into the amazing benefits of dancing, check out Michael Mosley’s Just One Thing podcast—a 10-minute deep dive into how dancing can transform your well-being. 🎧
Physical Health Benefits
1. Improved Heart and Lung Health
The dynamic movements of Charleston dancing improve blood circulation, making your heart more efficient. Your lungs benefit, too, as the increased oxygen intake enhances overall respiratory function.
2. Better Balance and Spatial Awareness
Charleston dancing promotes good posture and trains your balance. It increases spinal mobility, reducing the risk of issues like slipped discs. By focusing on coordination and motor skills, dance also sharpens your mind while strengthening your body.
3. Enhanced Coordination, Agility, and Flexibility
Spending long hours sitting? Charleston dancing is a perfect remedy for tension and stress. It improves blood flow to tendons and ligaments, maintaining or even enhancing your mobility. The complex movement patterns—such as coordinating your upper and lower body simultaneously—sharpen your concentration, coordination, balance, and agility.
MENTAL HEALTH
Mental Health Benefits
1. Boosted Cognitive Function
Charleston dancing improves brain blood flow, leaving you more alert and efficient. Studies suggest that dancing can reduce the risk of dementia, as the rhythmic and coordinated movements enhance connections between brain cells, keeping your mind sharp and young.
2. Greater Self-Confidence and Social Skills
Dancing releases endorphins, leaving you feeling happier, more relaxed, and satisfied. Attending Charleston dance classes also offers a chance to meet new people, building your social skills and boosting your confidence.
Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health, sharpen your mind, or lift your mood, Charleston dancing is the perfect solution. If you’re ready to give it a go, check out our upcoming Charleston dance courses—starting soon!
Videos: Watch Pennies From Heaven, Bad Guys and Hold Tight
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the final term of 2024! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.
Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the final term of 2024! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.