Celebrating MyCharleston's Spectacular Journey in 2023: A Year in Review

As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, it's time to reflect on the incredible achievements and unforgettable moments that made 2023 a standout year for MyCharleston. This dance community has continued to thrive, bringing joy, creativity, and a sense of togetherness through the timeless art of Charleston. Let's take a journey through the seasons and relive the magic that unfolded. We have not only taught countless weekly classes, but here are some hightlights from outside the studio doors too.

Spring

Embracing Women's Empowerment

International Women’s Day Workshop: In March, MyCharleston paid tribute to the roots of the Charleston dance, celebrating International Women’s Day. The workshop, held at Brighton Dome and organized by Brighton Women's Centre, honoured the dance's historical significance as a symbol of liberation for women in the 1920s. Watch the inspiring event unfold in this video: International Women’s Day Workshop

Choreographing the play: A Couple of Swells for Brighton Fringe

When Theatre Company ‘Lemon Squeeze’ contacted us about working on the choreography for the latest performance ‘A Couple of Swells’ We were delighted to take part. The show is about the lives of two music hall rivals Vesta Tilley & Hetty King who became global superstars as male impersonators in the early 1900s. Vesta was in her day England’s highest earning women, whilst Hetty was reputedly the highest-paid music hall star in the world. The play debuted at Brighton Fringe May 2023. Read the full story below

Jenny Thomas Masterclasses: The spring season continued with the energetic Charleston masterclasses taught by renowned Strictly Come Dancing choreographer Jenny Thomas. She will be returninng in May 2024 to Brighton.

Here is our intermediate group embraced the joy of her workshops , as captured in this lively video: Jenny Thomas Masterclass

Summer

MyCharleston Speakeasy - May: May brought the much-anticipated MyCharleston Speakeasy at the Spiegeltent, Brighton Fringe. The dance floor came alive with the rhythmic beats and vibrant moves, making it the most raucous event to date. Relive the excitement through these highlights: MyCharleston Speakeasy

Summer ALSO Festival - July: The summer festivities continued with a montage of highlights from the festival. From Charleston Ceilidh to Uptown Funk Dance workshops, MyCharleston's dance team showcased their talents with passion and flair: Summer Festival Highlights

The summer continued with numerous live shows, including performances at: The Grand Brighton, our City Dances, Newtorn Vintage Festival, Our City Dances and The Boat Regatta of Hayling Island to name a few. Not to mention the countless private bookings for Birthday parties, Hen Dos and private events.

Autumn

Southpaw Speakeasy: Embracing the spirit of the prohibition era, MyCharleston joined forces with Southpaw Dance and local Hip Hop dancers K.O.D for an innovative performance at the Pavilion Theatre Worthing. "Speakeasy" showcased a fusion of Hip Hop, Charleston, and Swing, proving the harmony of diverse dance forms: Southpaw Speakeasy

Wednesday Addams Halloween Routine: As autumn unfolded, MyCharleston added a touch of quirkiness with a Halloween routine inspired by Wednesday Addams. The dance captured the essence of minimalistic yet expressive moves, allowing dancers to let loose: Wednesday Addams Routine

Winter: A Festive Finale

Christmas Speakeasy: As winter approached, MyCharleston brought the year to a close with a festive flair. The Christmas Speakeasy was a dazzling celebration of the season, filled with joyous dance and holiday spirit.

As we wrap up this journey through the seasons, MyCharleston's achievements in 2023 stand as a testament to the enduring power of dance to bring people together. From celebrating women's empowerment to embracing diverse dance forms, MyCharleston has once again proven that the joy of dance knows no bounds. Here's to more memorable moments and electrifying dances in the years to come!