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Stepping Out in Style: Top Hat Glides Back on Stage - and into the Studio with MyCharleston
As Top Hat wows audiences on stage, you can take centre stage yourself with MyCharleston’s new term of dance courses.
Few musicals evoke the glamour and elegance of the golden age of Hollywood quite like Top Hat. With the show now delighting audiences on a UK tour following its dazzling run at Chichester Festival Theatre, MyCharleston is stepping into the spotlight too - offering brand-new Charleston dance courses inspired by this timeless classic. This term, we're celebrating the show’s return by bringing two of its most iconic numbers, “Puttin’ On The Ritz” and “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails,” to life in our adult dance classes across the South East and online.
A Hollywood Classic Reimagined for the Stage
Top Hat is based on the 1935 film starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers - an enduring classic that epitomised the glitz and glamour of 1930s Hollywood. The stage musical, featuring Irving Berlin’s iconic score, first premiered in 2011 and has since charmed audiences across the UK with its sparkling choreography, witty romance, and sweeping period style.
With songs like “Cheek to Cheek,” “Let’s Face the Music and Dance,” and of course, “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails” and “Puttin’ On The Ritz,” the show is a tap-dancing spectacle filled with elegance, energy, and vintage flair.
Back on Tour
Following a standout revival at Chichester Festival Theatre, Top Hat is going on tour and heading to venues across the country. For those local to the South East, your closest venues will be Woking and Eastbourne. Whether you're a long-time musical lover or discovering it for the first time, Top Hat promises a night of classic entertainment. Check out tour dates here.
Dance like you're in the spotlight with MyCharleston
As Top Hat wows audiences on stage, you can take centre stage yourself with MyCharleston’s new term of dance courses. Learn the routines inspired by “Puttin’ On The Ritz” in adult dance classes available in Brighton & Hove, Eastbourne, Lewes, Portsmouth and Online. Or try something extra special with our partner dance course in Hove, featuring “Top Hat”.
No previous experience needed - just bring your energy, your love of vintage music, and your dancing shoes.
Courses start from 8 September - join us and dance like you're in the West End!
Course Previews: What's on This September
It's only 4 weeks to go until we're back dancing in the studio and we are so excited to share the previews of our September courses with you! You can watch all previews here. This 6-week course block begins on the week commencing 8th September.
It's only 4 weeks to go until we're back dancing in the studio and we are so excited to share the previews of our September courses with you! All courses begin on the week commencing 8th September.
OPEN LEVEL CHARLESTON COURSE - PUTTING ON THE RITZ
BRIGHTON & HOVE | EASTBOURNE | LEWES | PORTSMOUTH
ONLINE
Grab your top hats and join us to dance a brand new routine set to the fun and iconic track "Putting On The Ritz". Fiona's choreography offers a perfect mix of glitzy Charleston and joyful Jazz.. Perfect for all levels—no partner needed—and comes with a video tutorial pack for home practice.
Available online and in studio. See dates and locations below:
Online - 10 Sep via Zoom, 6pm BST
Brighton - 8 Sep, 7:30pm, The Dance Space
Hove PM - 9 Sep, 6pm, Open Space Studios
Lewes - 9 Sep, 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop
Portsmouth - 9 Sep, 7:30pm, CourtX
Eastbourne - 10 Sep, 6:30pm, Leaf Hal
Hove AM - 11 Sep, 10:30am, Open Space Studios
MUSICALS COURSE - WE BOTH REACHED FOR THE GUN
HOVE ONLINE
Join us in our brand new musicals course inspired by a recent dance challenge video that went viral on social media. This routine, choreographed by Portsmouth teacher Lauren, comprises of classic Fosse style, puppetry-esque movements and a sultry Jazz flair!
PARTNER CHARLESTON - TOP HAT
11 Sep - Open Space Studios, 6pm
Take a look at what's in store in our Partner Charleston Course, running every Thursday at 6pm. Step back in time with classic partner moves which will have you swivelling back and forth and twirling across the dancefloor like it's 1925, set to the celebrated and cheerful tune 'Top Hat'.
BOOK NOW
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - WHAM RE-BOP
11 Sep - Open Space Studios, 7pm
Join us for some joyful and electric choreography set to the catchy and iconic track Wham Re-Bop. This routine comprises of some of the most exhilarating Solo Jazz moves which guarantees a smile, and by the end of this 6-week course, it really will be 'easy to do like the Susie Q'.
Charleston By The Sea: A Vivacious Afternoon Awaits
We are very excited to announce that there are now only a few weeks to go until our next event and the final social of the Summer!
Join us for ‘Charleston by the Sea’ dance event on Sunday 29th June at the Pavilion Atrium, for an afternoon of dress-up and iconic dancing that will transport you back to the Roaring 1920s.
Put on your pearls and join us for live jazz and group-led dances at this dress-up-and-dance event at the beautiful Pavilion Atrium on Worthing Pier. With performances and a photo booth full of quirky props to pose with, this social promises to be a fun-packed afternoon!
Where: Pavilion Atrium, Marine Parade, Worthing, West Sussex, BN11 3PX
When: Sunday 29th June 2025
Time: 2pm- 5pm
Age: Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets are selling fast so click the link below to secure your place. We can’t wait to dance with you there!
We are very excited to announce that there are now only a few weeks to go until the rhythmic sounds of our jazz band will spill from the doors of the stunning Pavilion Atrium, drawing curious passers-by to a unique scene, as our afternoon of ‘Charleston by the Sea’ unfolds.
The Setting: History Meets Coastal Charm
The Pavilion Atrium, with its elegant architecture and sweeping sea views, will serve as a spectacular stage for you to finesse your Charleston flair. As the waves lap gently against the shore, the pop-up dance classes, live music, and performances from our very own troupe of professional flappers will have you stepping, kicking, and twirling to the infectious rhythms of our Jazz Trio.
The contrast will be magical; 1920s glamour meets modern-day costal charm!
The Workshop: Vintage Vibes With A View
Led by our spirited vintage dance experts, the afternoon will consist of many opportunities for you to get your groove on, and experience dancing the Charleston. No matter your level of skill or previous dance knowledge, you will be guided through the basics of the Charleston dance. We will then build upon your knowledge so you will soon be dancing sequences in formation - think a Ceilidh and Line Dancing fusion, with a exuberant 1920s Charleston twist. Our ‘Caller’ will guide you through the dance moves and patterns; from aisles to arches, circle dances and strolls, anyone can join in this fun filled afternoon of dance!
The Sea As Your Dance Partner
One of the most unforgettable elements of the afternoon will be the way the dance feels infused with its surroundings. Between songs, you will be able to pause to catch your breath, take in the stunning sea views and even have a cheeky afternoon drink from the bar.
A vivacious afternoon awaits; so join us now for a celebration of music, dance, and community - let’s bring the Roaring 1920s to Worthing!
By: Eleanor O’Donnell, Fiona Ring & Lauren Pascolutti
All You Need To Know About Thoroughly Modern Millie
Join us for our next 6 week Musical Course in Hove or online, where you can learn a quirky routine from Thoroughly Modern Millie!
Online details: Mondays 2 June - 7 July, 7pm via Zoom
Hove details: Tuesdays 3 June - 8 July, 7pm at Open Space Studios
Visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!
If there’s one thing that makes Thoroughly Modern Millie unforgettable, it’s the dazzling dance numbers that keep you on your toes (quite literally)! From the jazzy tap rhythms to the flapper-inspired sequences; this musical number is a masterpiece of high-energy and visually stunning choreography.
This is one of the many reasons why we are very excited to be teaching this iconic routine in our next 6-week Musicals course, starting from week commencing 2nd June both Online and in Hove!
Whether you’re prepping to be the next Broadway Star, trying something new, or just want to add some jazzy flair to your daily routine; this course is perfect for you.
Watch the routine here:
From its Broadway debut to recent revivals, Thoroughly Modern Millie is a classic that has managed to captivate audiences across generations. So, what makes Millie so appealing? Read on to dive into a world of jazz and flapper-tastic fun!
The Roaring Twenties: Reimagined
Set in New York City during the Jazz Age, Thoroughly Modern Millie is a sparkling blend of vintage charm and modern energy – making it a perfect dance routine to learn for any occasion. The 1920s was an era of cultural revolution, with flappers, jazz, and influential feminism playing a huge role in making this decade iconic. The choreography in Thoroughly Modern Millie embodies the spirit of the epoch, with slick dance moves, that are full of precision and full flapper-style flair!
Millie: A Heroine For The Ages
At the heart of what this iconic routine is based on, is Millie; a character who refuses to let anything stand in her way as she navigates the complexities of being a woman in 1920s America. Her journey is inspiring for anyone who’s ever struggled with balancing ambition, love, and self-identity. It’s the perfect musical that encapsulates a fascinating period in history, where people were beginning to reinvent the world in bold and exciting ways!
So, if you’re looking to learn a dance routine that’s fun, lively, and upholds a sense of freedom that still resonates today; be sure to grab yourself a place on our upcoming Musical Course that will leave you humming the tune, tapping your feet, and feeling just a little more thoroughly modern yourself!
Credit: MTI
Join us for our next 6 week Musical Course in Hove or online, where you can learn a quirky routine from Thoroughly Modern Millie!
Online details: Mondays 2 June - 7 July, 7pm via Zoom
Hove details: Tuesdays 3 June - 8 July, 7pm at Open Space Studios
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Course Previews: What's on This June
Spring has flown by and Summer is now just round the corner! We have an exciting lineup of 6-week courses starting in June. Our next course block begins on 2 June - and you can watch all the course previews here!
Spring has flown by and Summer is now just round the corner! We have an exciting lineup of 6-week courses starting in June. Our next course block begins on 2 June - and you can watch all the course previews here!
CHARLESTON COURSE - (I WISH I COULD) SHIMMY LIKE MY SISTER KATE
BRIGHTON & HOVE | EASTBOURNE | LEWES | PORTSMOUTH
ONLINE
Take a sneaky peek at the routine for our next Open Level Charleston course coming up in June, where we will be dancing to Shimmy Like My Sister Kate. An absolute classic from the 1920s which has been covered and reimagined many times; this version full of exuberance and truly reflective of ‘Roaring Twenties’ flamboyance! We run this course online and in studio locations in the UK.
Available online and in studio. See dates and locations below:
Online - 2 June, 6pm BST via Zoom
Brighton - 2 June, 7:30pm The Dance Space
Hove PM - 3 June, 6pm, Open Space Studios
Lewes - 3 June, 6:30pm, The Body Workshop
Portsmouth - 3 June, 7:30pm, CourtX
Eastbourne - 4 June, 6:30pm, Leaf Hall
Hove AM - 5 June, 10:30am, Open Space Studios
MUSICALS COURSE - THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE
HOVE ONLINE
Join us for our next Musicals course in June where we will be learning a routine to Thoroughly Modern Millie’s title track. Set in 1922, this show follows Millie, who moves to NYC from Kansas in order to enjoy a flapper lifestyle and “marry for money” instead of for love - a thoroughly modern ambition for that time - and chaos quickly ensues. This fun routine encapsulates the show’s energy, quirks and humour!
Available online and in studio. See dates and locations below:
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - SMOOTH SAILING
5 June - Open Space Studios, 7pm
For our next Intermediate Charleston course, we will be dancing to a song by the Queen of Jazz herself - Smooth Sailing by Ella Fitzgerald. Smooth like butter but with plenty of spice, Fiona’s choreography is heavily inspired by Ella Fitzgerald’s deep, soothing voice, as well as the fierce freedom alluding from her enticing scats. You’re in for a treat with this one!
BOOK NOW
PARTNER CHARLESTON - FIDGETY FEET
5 June - Open Space Studios, 6pm
In our next Partner Charleston Course we will be learning a routine to Fidgety Feet. The choreography, much like the song, is fast paced and packed with classic 1920s partner moves and a sprinkle of 30s fun - get ready to rock, swivel, fidget and spin!
Never Forget a Step! Top Strategies for Memorising Dance Routines
Fiona’s Top Tips for maximising your retention when it comes to learning and remembering dance routines - especially helpful for those of you performing with us at the Summer Speakeasy in May!
It’s a real thrill when you’re learning a dance routine – and at the end of the course it’s always wonderful to look back on just how much choreography you learnt!
But remembering the steps from week to week when learning a routine is a very common struggle for dancers. For those of you performing at our Summer Speakeasy in May, how will you remember it when there’s no class or rehearsal for three weeks?!
The old adage “practice makes perfect” comes to mind, but what are the best techniques for not just learning the dance but also retaining it?
Here are my top tips, along with an explanation of the best ways to apply them:
Interrupt the forgetting process
Listen to the music until you know it by heart
Visualize the routine in your head
Develop muscle memory
Now, let’s dive in and explore how to use these practice techniques in a world where there’s never enough time!
Interrupt the forgetting process
A student in my class (who works in education) introduced me to this concept. Ironically, after she told me about it, I forgot the name and had to text her for a reminder!
I had noticed that if I went home and practiced a routine on the same day I learnt it, I could recall about 80–100% of the steps. However, if I waited until the next day, my recall dropped to around 50%. In other words, the longer you wait, the more you forget.
What does it mean? The phrase "interrupting forgetting" sounds a bit upside down to me, but it subtly shifts the focus from "How can I remember?" to "How can I prevent forgetting?” – a much more effective mindset for retentive learning.
The Forgetting Curve is a theory based on research by Hermann Ebbinghuas, and suggests that retention can drop by nearly 70% within one day of learning. However, repetition in small bouts at regular intervals can increase retention to 90%.
So, how does it work in practice? It’s natural to want to put your feet up after a dance class, but if you can run through the steps just once more when you get home from your class before you relax, it will greatly improve your memory recall. Even better if you can revisit the routine in intervals throughout the week in between your classes. So, give it a go!
Listen to the music until you know it by heart
For many musicians, and singers in particular, being able to hear a song in your head is essential for producing the melody you want to create. Different dance styles have unique relationships with music.
In early jazz and Charleston, that relationship is like a marriage – the dance is a direct response to the music, or even a re-enactment of its sound and rhythm through movement. Therefore, if you can hear the tune in your head, your movements will naturally become a fluid response to the music.
The great thing about this technique is that you can listen while engaging in another activity. So, be doubly productive – put on your headphones and learn as you walk, clean, cook, or simply lie down and enjoy!
Visualise the routine in your head
I love this one, and I also use it to help me fall asleep – but be warned, you might ear-worm yourself, which won’t exactly help you drift off!
My approach is quite simple: I start from the beginning and visualise the dance from a first-person perspective. If I reach a moment where I struggle to remember a step, I go back to the start and begin again. The downside? You might never get past a certain point before eventually falling asleep – but hey, mission accomplished, and at least you got in a bit of practice!
Others suggest practicing the routine with your eyes closed. When we are in a dance class or learning from a video, we’re often looking at someone else. Running the routine in your head allows you to prove to yourself that you actually know the steps – because chances are, you do!
Some people like to create a story around the movements. When actors learn their lines, they rarely memorise individual words but connect to the story they’re telling as whole and the character’s objectives throughout. So, when learning choreography, we try not to focus on individual moves but instead organise the moves into phrases. Then, group the phrases into paragraphs, and eventually, you’ll remember the whole story.
Some people take this further and create actual narratives. For example, in South Carolina (Charleston), Santa Claus (Messaround) was told off (wiggerly finger) for falling in the fountain (waterfall). I’m not entirely convinced by this strategy, but if it works for you, go for it!
Muscle memory
Dance is muscle memory – or so dance teachers say. But is this phrase just hocus pocus?
While I could only play the piano using muscle memory (I struggled with reading music), I was still a bit sceptical about its role in dance. However, time has taught me that muscle memory is real – and sometimes, it can even work against you.
Have you ever learned a dance sequence that was similar but not identical to one you had learned before? Did you find yourself reverting back to the original routine? I can’t explain the science behind muscle memory, but I’ve experienced it firsthand, and I know it’s real.
The key thing to understand is that muscle memory only kicks in once you’ve drilled the moves enough times for them to become ingrained in your body. As you drill, repeat, and practice, commit to going all in; don’t just mark the steps – dance them! This is how your body truly learns.
Once the steps feel familiar, it’s time to turn off your brain, lose that inner voice, and let your heart and soul take over. Your brain might try to regain control, but let your response here be: “I don’t need you now, brain – I’m putting you on a shelf.” The more you practice trusting your body over your conscious mind, the more you’ll experience that out-of-body feeling – the true magic of dance.
Put it to action: Saltdean Speakeasy Performance Opportunity!
On Saturday 3 May we are hosting our Summer Speakeasy at Saltdean Lido, and all students who completed our most recent courses are invited to perform with us at this event in the following routines:
Strut Miss Lizzie
Who’s Got The Pain
It Don’t Mean A Thing
Parla Piu Pano
For those of you that have performed for a crowd before, you will understand the exhilaration it brings! It is a chance to share the stage with a community, and show off your accomplishments. We are holding a rehearsal on 26 April at Open Space Studios for all performers, which costs £10 per performer.
There is still time to register to perform and book your rehearsal space – we’d love to see as many of you join us as possible!
All those wishing to perform must purchase a Speakeasy ticket here: https://www.saltdeanlido.co.uk/event-details-registration/summer-speakeasy
Register your interest: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeXDgykeTwcVEMc_Ch5gCmUf3UhdgH0eaoW1jTT7PrVIdow5g/viewform
Book your rehearsal space: https://mycharlestondance.com/workshop/p/speigeltent-rehearsal-2025
By: Fiona Ring
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!
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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.