The West Coast Swing

Dance Summary Type: American Rhythm Character: Smooth forward and back movement Music: Smooth rock, blues (slower than ECS, 4/4) In Short: Hollywood's version of the East Coast, West Coast Swing now has a life of its own
Beginner's Rating Simple: Instructional: Creative: Slow-Paced: Practical: Overall Score:
Notes on Frame West Coast Swing begins in open position from a sugar push basic. The extended forward and back movement of the dance requires a solid hand-to-hand connection between partners, so proper push-pull resisistance is vital. Be sure to keep elbows comfortably forward of the torso so as not to allow this connection to collapse.
Notes on Footwork All steps are taken on the balls of the feet with knees well flexed. Steps should be small, no more than shoulder width, except in instances of exaggerated travel. Try to keep the dance as level and smooth as possible.
Notes on Movement Contain the dance to a small portion of the dance floor, only traveling when the area becomes too crowded or when additional space is required for certain patterns.

Practice Points

Each triple step in the West Coast basic can be substituted with a tap step. If the full basic seems difficult, try instead beginning with step, step, tap, step, tap, step, being sure to keep the man's traveling to a minimum (no more than 2 feet). When ready, use the anchor steps as shown in the diagram (in-place triple step). Also concentrate on maintaining a firm connection between the man's left and lady's right hand, keeping elbows just forward of the torso at all times, so as not to overextend the basic and pull each other off balance.

Recommendations

Though the West Coast Swing was oringinally developed for the big screen, it has evolved into a dance very much its own. As opposed to the more upbeat and energetic forms of swing, West Coast Swing tends to be a bit slower and smoother, allowing for more styling and attention to the technichal aspects of the dance. West Coast Swing makes use of both the triple 6 count timing of East Coast as well as the 8 count timing of Lindy for its more elaborate patterns, making for a very versatile array of danceable patterns.

This dance would be well suited for any of the following occasions:

Anniversary Evenings Ballroom Dances Class Reunions Corporate Events Cruises Dance Clubs

Fitness Centers College Formals In-home Parties Marriage Programs Marriage Retreats Outdoor Dances

Regional Vacations Social Dances School Proms School Talent Shows Wedding Receptions Youth Events