Never Forget a Step! Top Strategies for Memorising Dance Routines

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

All That Jazz: All You Need To Know

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

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. 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

Videos: What's on 2025

Swivel into the New Year with our exciting dance courses starting this January

Our new term of the year begins on 6th Jan, watch all the previews here!

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CHARLESTON COURSE - YES SIR! THAT’S MY BABY

BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE

EASTBOURNE

Start the New Year with style with our brand new Charleston course, set to the classic 1920s track ‘Yes Sir! That’s My Baby’ Kicking off on 6th Jan both in-studio and online.

Online - 6 Jan,6pm BST

Brighton - 6 Jan, 7:30pm The Dance Space

Hove PM- 7 Jan, Open Space Studios

Lewes- 7 Jan 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop

Porstmouth  7 Jan, 7:30pm, CourtX

Eastbourne - 8 Jan, 6:30pm, Leaf Hal

Hove am, 9 Jan, 10:30am, Open Space Studios

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MUSICALS COURSE - LA LA LAND

Another Day of Sun

HOVE ONLINE

We are bringing some Hollywood sunshine to the studio this January this our brand new Musicals Course ‘Another Day of Sun’ from the hit movie La La Land. This uplifting piece of music is bound to shake of those winter blues.

Course available online and instudio

6 Jan - 7pm GMT - Via Zoom

7 Jan - 7pm - Open Space Studios, Hove

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PARTNER CHARLESTON

9 Jan- 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 9 Jan for the next course

BOOK NOW

INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON

BOOK NOW

9th Jan - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course

Master the advanced steps of 1920s Charleston and learn a detailed choreographed routine in our 6 week dance course. This term the routine is themed around a Marching Band

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1920s Partner Charleston

Charleston is famous as a solo dance, so when my business partner Elena suggested we developed a course in Partner Charleston I was sceptical. The concept of Partner Charleston was not alien to me, I had attended workshops and watched it on Strictly but I couldn’t help thinking it was a bit of a fudge.

There is a history to Partner Charleston; It developed after the original Charleston dance craze had seen it’s hey day. In the 1920’s The Ballroom Society had found women dancing solo quite scandalous and so they created a cleaned-up version of the Charleston which was danced with a partner. The early jazz music of the Twenties evolved, and with Swing came the Lindy Hop dance. Lindy Hoppers danced a new style of Charleston, the footwork is more complex and it can be danced with a Partner or Solo.

Fast forward to the 2020’s and we had a big historical palate of Partner Charleston dance moves which we could copy and paste. But deep down I was still worried people would look at Partner Charleston and say “That’s not a thing”. Twenties Charleston is just a tap and a step, could we keep the essence of that footwork and create a dance which felt interesting and varied? One year on, we have successfully created seven Partner Charleston dances, which both look and feel great to dance.

 When couples decide they want to learn to dance, the desired outcome is normally the ability to be able to dance together. Whether it’s in their kitchen or at social occasion they’ll need to know some basic moves. Dance should be enjoyable and achievable, and the Charleston is both. The basic ‘Tap, Step’ footwork is quick to learn add some double taps with some walks and you have enough of a dance vocabulary to last a whole tune.

There is a difference between performed couple dancing and improvised dancing. Those perfectly executed moves you see on Strictly have been choreographed and rehearsed over and over until they are performance ready. In social dance forms such as Swing or Tango the emphasis is on improvisation, both you and your partner need know the moves so you can converse through language of dance. This is a skill which takes a lot of practice, the best Follow in the world is not psychic! For Leads, the pressure is on to know all the moves,  execute them clearly and to be creative. 

I have learnt both approaches and decided MyCharleston could offer a blend of the two. In the six-week courses we run we divide the lesson into two halves. Firstly, we teach Leads and follows two or three dance moves. We focus on how the Lead gives signals and how the Follow responds. We then put on some music and encourage dancers to play with those moves by changing the number they do or the order in which they happen, so it becomes a true improvisation.

The moves they have learnt are then incorporated into a choreographed routine which they learn in the second part of the lesson. Each week we build upon the vocabulary of moves and the choreography so by the end of the course students know a full routine, which they can dance together. Part of MyCharleston teaching practice is to give students a clear and achievable goal. Learning a dance routine allows students to progress the knowledge week by week. The outcome is a full dance routine and an opportunity to dress-up and film the routine.

Creating the Partner Charleston routines opened our eyes to how much you can do with the basic ‘Tap, Step’ footwork. Once you have mastered the Charleston, you can play with variations. In this video tutorial we show how to do ‘Closed Swivels’ and ‘Open Swivels’. The footwork is still “Tap, Step” with changes of direction and use of counter weight to create a ‘bounce back’ between the dance partners, which feels great!

Keeping the playful character of Twenties Charleston was important to us. Dance that becomes predominantly technique can lose its sense of fun. People learn best through play, it keeps the learning light but you still gain the skills. By adding dance moves which are normally done solo it allowed us to break away from the constant ‘Tap, Step’ footwork and add a new dynamic to the Choreography. These moves work well for Choreographed routines and as they capture the Twenties dance style. In this tutorial we teach two classic moves called “Heel Flicks’ and Bunny Hops”

Partner dance would be nothing if you didn’t add some turns or spins, it’s just such a great feeling and they look brilliant. Once you know the Charleston you can easily add a turn and the footwork is identical. There is no rule in Charleston that only Follows get to do turns, so Leads also get a spin on the dance floor. In this video tutorial we teach you a ‘Call and Response’ Turning sequence, in which one person turns and then the other.

My top tip for anyone looking to Partner dance is think about how you treat your partner. Be kind, patient and don’t get too serious. Through fun and lightness, you will find your dancing feet together. To book the next course click the button below

Videos: What's on this November

swivel into the next season with our exciting dance courses starting this November

Our new term of the year begins on 4th Nov, watch all the previews here!

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CHARLESTON COURSE - PENNIES FROM HEAVEN

BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINe

Eastbourne

Step into the cooler months with our brand new Charleston course, set to the lively tune of Pennies from Heaven! Kicking off on 4th November, this umbrella-themed dance class is sure to brighten your day, rain or shine.

Online - 4th Nov,6pm BST

Brighton - 4 Nov, 7:30pm The Dance Space

Hove PM- 5th Nov,, Open Space Studios

Lewes- 12 Nov 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop

Porstmouth  5th Nov, 7:30pm, CourtX

Eastbourne - 6th Nov, 6:30pm, Leaf Hal

Hove am, 7th Nov, 10:30am, Open Space Studios

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MUSICALS COURSE - BAD GUYS

bugsy Malon

HOVE ONLINe

After many requests we are bringing back our Bugsy Malone themed routine to 'Bad Guys' for our final term of the year. This course will be available online and in-studio on the following dates:

4th Nov - 7pm GMT - Via Zoom

5th Nov - 7pm - Open Space Studios, Hove

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PARTNER CHARLESTON

7th Nov- Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course

ake 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 7th Nov for the next course

BOOK NOW

INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - Hold TIGHT

BOOK NOW

7th Nov - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course

Get ready to 'Hold Tight' for our next Intermediate course where we will be dancing some great Solo Jazz and Charleston choreography to this upbeat song by The Andrew Sisters. New term kicks starts 7th Nov at 7pm at Open Space Studios

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Videos: What's on this September

swivel into the next season with our exciting dance courses starting this September

Our new term of the year begins on September 9th, and all students participating this term are invited to perform at the MyCharleston Christmas Speakeasy on December 7th. In our Open Level Charleston Course, we'll be dancing to "The Charleston" by James P. Johnson, while the Intermediate group will take on the Black Bottom. Our Musicals Course will take you back to the 1970s with "Rhythm of Life," or you can explore the dynamic Partner Charleston to "I'll Always Be in Love with You." The new term is available both in-studio and online. Check out all the previews here!

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CHARLESTON COURSE - the charleston

BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINe

Eastbourne

Prepare to dance the iconic dance to the original song ‘The Charleston by‘ James P Johnson. Check out the timetable for each location below:

Online - 10 June, 6pm BST

Brighton - 9th Sept, 7:30pm The Dance Space

Hove PM- 10th 6pm, Open Space Studios

Lewes- 10th Sept 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop

Porstmouth  10th Sept, 7:30pm, CourtX

Eastbourne - 10th Sept, 6:30pm, Leaf Hal

Hove PM- 13 June, 10:30AM, Open Space Studios

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MUSICALS COURSE - Rhythm of Life

sweet charity

HOVE ONLINe

Embrace the spirit of the 1960s with our next musicals course. We will be teaching ‘Rhythm of Life‘ from Sweet Charity available both online and in-studio.

- Online 9 Sept 7pm with Fiona BST

- Studio - 10 Sept 7pm with Elena in Hove

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PARTNER CHARLESTON

12 Sept- Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course

For those new to the course we'll dive into the basics of Partner Charleston, focusing on the iconic 1920s Charleston steps and even stylish 1930s moves including Tandem Charleston, S-Turns and Hand to Hand Charleston. Our focus is getting you confident on the dance floor in both a social setting. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to learn a fantastic routine that'll have you dancing the night away!

BOOK NOW

INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - Black Bottom

BOOK NOW

12 Sept - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course

Learn the detailed and famous Black bottom dance from the Roaring 20s. we will mixing advanced Charleston steps with classic Black Bottom choreography to create a dynamic and memorable routine which you will love.

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Videos: What's on this June

Kick off your summer with our exciting dance courses starting this June

Embrace the summer spirit with our Open Level Charleston Course set to the lively tune of 'Happy Feet,' or take your skills up a notch in the Intermediate Charleston class with the energetic beats of 'Sing Sing Sing.' You can also master the captivating 'Jet Song' routine from West Side Story in our Musicals course or explore the dynamic 1920s Partner Charleston to 'Don’t Bring Lulu.' The new term begins on June 10th, available both in-studio and online. Check out all the previews here!

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CHARLESTON COURSE - HAPPY FEET

BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINe

Eastbourne

Prepare to dance with this lively and energetic Charleston routine set to the tune of 'Happy Feet.' Check out the timetable for each location below:

Online - 10 June, 6pm BST

Brighton - 10 June, 7:30pm The Dance Space

Hove PM- 11 June, 6pm, Open Space Studios

Lewes- 11 June 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop

Porstmouth  -11 June 7:30pm, CourtX

Eastbourne - 12 June 6:30pm, Leaf Hal

Hove PM- 13 June, 10:30AM, Open Space Studios

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MUSICALS COURSE - Jet Song

WEST SIDE STORY

HOVE ONLINe

Dance to the gripping ‘Jet Song‘ from West Side story in our our next Musicals course available both online and in-studio.

- Online 10 June 7pm with Fiona BST

- Studio - 11 June 7pm with Elena in Hove

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PARTNER CHARLESTON

13 June- Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course

For those new to the course we'll dive into the basics of Partner Charleston, focusing on the iconic 1920s Charleston steps and even some stylish 1930s moves. Our focus is getting you confident on the dance floor in both a social setting. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to learn a fantastic routine that'll have you dancing the night away!

BOOK NOW

INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - SING SING SING

BOOK NOW

13 June - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course

Master the advanced steps of 1920s Charleston and learn a detailed choreographed routine  in our 6 week dance course. Set to the tune Sing Sing Sing, we will mixing advanced Charleston steps with Solo Jazz to create a dynamic and memorable routine which you will love.

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Videos: What's on this April

Spring into action with our dynamic dance courses launching this April

Swivel in our Open Level Charleston Course to 'Sugar Foot Stomp' or try iconic number 'Me Ol’Bamboo ' from, Chitty Chatty Bang Bang, in our Musicals Course. Elevate your skills in the Intermediate Charleston course with the upbeat sounds of 'Why Don’t You Do Right.' Plus, mark your calendar for our new Partner Course starting 18th April, set to 'Jeepers Creepers.'

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CHARLESTON COURSE - sugar foot stomp

BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE Eastbourne

Get ready to dance with this upbeat and energetic Charleston routine set to the tune 'Sugar Foot Stomp' . See below the timetable for each location:

Online - 15th April, 6pm BST

Brighton - 15th April, 7:30pm The Dance Space

Hove - 16th April, 6pm, Open Space Studios

Lewes- 16th April, 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop

Porstmouth -16th April, 7:30pm, CourtX

Eastbourne - 17th April, 6:30pm, Leaf Hall

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MUSICALS COURSE - me ol’ bamboo

Chitty chitty bang bang

HOVE ONLINE

Prepare your hats and sticks for our upcoming musicals course, where we'll delve into the lively routine of 'Me Ol'Bamboo' from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!

- Online 15 April 7pm with Fiona but

- Studio 16 April 7pm with Elena in Hove

PARTNER CHARLESTON

18th April- Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course

Our next Partner Charleston course is back from 18th April at Open Space Studios at 6pm.

For those new to the course we'll dive into the basics of Partner Charleston, focusing on the iconic 1920s Charleston steps and even some stylish 1930s moves. Our focus is getting you confident on the dance floor in both a social setting. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to learn a fantastic routine that'll have you dancing the night away!

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INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - Moten Swing

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18th April - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course

Set to Peggy Lee's "Why Don't You Do Right," we're blending Charleston, Solo Jazz, and Electro Swing styles. Anticipate a fusion of Jazz and Blues steps, featuring syncopated movements. Alongside the slower sequences, we've incorporated an energetic finale, rich in classic Charleston steps.

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Videos: What's on this February

Spring into action with our dynamic dance courses launching this February!

Dive into our Open Level Charleston Course set to the tune to 'Everybody Loves by Baby' whilst we will taking on the closing number in Chicago 'Hot ‘Honey Rag' in our Musicals Course. Elevate your skills in the Intermediate Charleston course with the rhythm of 'Moten Swing.' Plus, mark your calendar for our new Partner Course starting February 22nd, set to 'Puttin’ on The Ritz.'

But that’s not all, if you take part in the upcoming term you can also perform. All students will be invited to perform their group routines on 18th May at the MyCharleston Speakeasy at the Brighton Spiegeltent.

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CHARLESTON COURSE - shake that thing

BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE Eastbourne

Get ready to Shake Your Thing with this upbeat and energetic Charleston routine by Vince Giordano. See below the timetable for each location:

Online - 19th Feb, 6pm GMT

Brighton - 19th Feb, 7:30pm The Dance Space

Hove - 20th Feb, 6pm, Open Space Studios

Lewes- 20th Feb, 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop

Porstmouth -20th Feb, 7:30pm, CourtX

Eastbourne - 21st Feb, 6:30pm, Leaf Hall

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MUSICALS COURSE - Hot Honey RAG

CHICAGO

HOVE ONLINE

Get your Tommy Guns at the ready as we are heading to Chicago for our next musicals course and teaching the routine 'Hot Honey Rag'. This is a Musicals Classic and lots of fun with toy guns and bowler hats too! New course starts:

- Online 19 Feb 7pm with Fiona

- Studio 20 Feb 7pm with Elena in Hove

PARTNER CHARLESTON

22nd Feb - Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course

Set to the tune ‘Puttin’ on the Rit’ Our primary focus is building your confidence in the fundamentals of Partner Charleston. From mastering the Basic Charleston steps to executing elegant turns and walking seamlessly together, we ensure you're equipped with the essential building blocks to navigate the dance floor with flair.

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INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - Moten Swing

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22nd Feb - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course

Elevate your Charleston and Solo Jazz skills with us on our next intermediate course where we will dancing to ‘Moten Swing‘. On this course we will master classic moves such as Kick Charleston variations, Trickeration and The Chase. Join Fiona on 22nd Feb - Open Space Studios at 7pm.

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