What is West Coast Swing?

West Coast Swing (WCS) is a modern improvised partner dance. It’s a social dance, and it’s all about having fun and making connections.

No special skills, shoes, or clothes are required. All you need is a love of music and a desire to move.

You can have fun social dancing after only one lesson. Come to class reglarly, and you’ll learn the basics in a few months, even if you’ve never danced before.

WCS can be danced fast or slow. It’s danced to a variety of music genres, such as Pop, R&B, Blues, and Hip Hop. There’s always a track to match your vibe.

West Coast Swing is danced all over the world. It’s a friendly and inclusive dance. Your next dance might be with a beginner, the one after might be with a world champion.

What to expect on your first lesson

We’ll introduce you to the dance, help you understand the basic rhythms, and explain about lead and follow.

We’ll rotate partners throughout the class so you get a chance to dance with different people.

We’ll teach you some of the basic moves which form the fundamental building blocks of your West Coast Swing dancing.

After the lesson you are welcome to stay and try out the social dancing!

Code of conduct

We ask that you follow our Code of conduct during all of our classes and events.

FAQ

Do I need a partner?

No! We rotate partners throughout the lesson.

Do I need any dance experience?

No! We’ll teach you from scratch, whether you’re completely new to dancing, or have danced another style previosuly.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothes you can easily move around in, and flat or low-heeled shoes with soles that aren’t too grippy. You don’t need special dance shoes as a beginner.

Is West Coast Swing the same as other swing dances?

No, there are many different types of swing dancing. West Coast Swing is its own unique dance. While there is a shared history and common elements with other swing dance styles, West Coast Swing has its own distinct feel, characterised by the elasticity of its connection, as well as improvisational elements and the diversity of its music.

Do I need to book?

No, for our regular classes you can just turn up. If you are new to West Coast Swing, make sure you turn up in plenty of time for the start of the Level 1 class.

Which level is right for me?

Start at Level 1 if you have never danced West Coast Swing before, or are not fully confident with your West Coast Swing basics. You should expect to regularly attend Levels 1 and 2 for at least 3-6 months before you are ready to try Level 3.

Please see level descriptions for more information.

I have done other dance styles before, do I still need to come to Level 1?

Yes, West Coast Swing has its own rhythm structures, fundamental footwork and distinct technique which you need to learn before you will be able to attend higher level classes.

What is the difference between the leader and follower roles?

In West Coast Swing, the leader initiates movements and guides direction, while the follower interprets and responds with their own style. Both roles allow for personal creativity and musicality.

You can choose whichever role you prefer, and many people learn both roles.

Yes! We’d love for you to stay after the class for the social, even if this is your first dance lesson! You’ll have learned the basics of connection and footwork so you can dance with anyone.

What music do we play?

West Coast Swing is danced to a wide variety of musical genres, including Pop, R&B, Blues, and Hip Hop. We play a variety of music of different tempos during our social dancing.