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Read about all things Charleston
Watch Jenny Thomas Masterclass
On 11th May, we were delighted to host Jenny Thomas for two Charleston Masterclasses in Brighton. This was a unique opportunity for our students to learn from one of world’s top choreographers in Charleston & Authentic Jazz. She has devised several top scoring Charleston routines for BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and now it was our turn to try out some of signatures moves.
On 11th May, we were delighted to host Jenny Thomas for two Charleston Masterclasses in Brighton. This was a unique opportunity for our students to learn from one of world’s top choreographers in Charleston & Authentic Jazz. She has devised several top scoring Charleston routines for BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and now it was our turn to try out some of signatures moves.
Open Level Group
Strictly Choreographer Jenny Thomas is an ambassador for keeping the Charleston alive and kicking. She is one of the world’s top choreographers in Swing, Lindy Hop, Charleston and Authentic Jazz. Her ability to create a dance routine for beginners and make it look amazing is a unique talent. In this workshop she takes classic moves and adds a modern twist to create a routine which celebrates the Twenties.
Intermediate Level
In our intermediate level group we worked on more technical steps including The Chase and Trickeration.
To join any of our upcoming weekend workshops click here
Videos: Watch the routines from spring term 2024
Watch the videos from our second term of the year 2024. Our Shake That Thing routine was taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, Holland, the Midlands and Online. Below we have also included our Musicals Course ‘Hot Honey Rag‘ , Partner Charleston and Intermediate Level performance of Moten Swing.
Watch the videos from our second term of the year 2024. Our Shake That Thing routine was taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, Holland, the Midlands and Online. Below we have also included our Musicals Course ‘Hot Honey Rag‘ , Partner Charleston and Intermediate Level performance of Moten Swing.
Hove Morning GROUP
hOVE Evening GROUP
Brighton GROUP
Lewes gROUP
EASTBOURNE gROUP
PORTSMOUTH gROUP
Online gROUP
Holland group
dARLINGTON group
Midlands groups
CHICAGO - Musicals Group hoVE
CHICAGO - Musicals Group zOOM
intermediate group - mOTEN sWING
pARTNER CHARLESTON
Videos: What's on 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.'
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.'
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
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!
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - Moten Swing
BOOK NOW
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.
3 flapper girls you must know
In the 1920s flappers girls broke the image of what a traditional woman should be. They cut their hair short, wore make-up and are what many considered the "modern" woman, breaking away from victorian womanhood. Flapper girls Josephine Baker, Clara Bow and Louise Brooks are maybe the most most famous three from the era but what made them stood out and stand the test of time?
In the 1920s flappers girls broke the image of what a traditional woman should be. They cut their hair short, wore make-up and are what many considered the "modern" woman, breaking away from victorian womanhood. Flappers Josephine Baker, Clara Bow and Louise Brooks are maybe the most famous three from the era but what made them stood out and stand the test of time?
Josephine Baker
JOSEPHINE BAKER
Josephine Baker was born in Missouri in 1906. Originally she was named Freda Josephine McDonald, but after immigrating to France she was known as Josephine Baker.
She is one of the most famous Charleston dancers of the era and her career began as a street dancer, which attracted attention and helped her being recruited as a dancer for the St. Louis Chorus Vaudeville show at the age of 15. Not long after this, she moved to New York City where she performed at the Plantation Club and in the Broadway chorus line of Shuffle Along and The Chocolate Dandies.
After New York, she moved to Paris in France where she stayed until she died. Her Danse Sauvage brought her success overnight, because her skirt was consisting only of a griddle of artificial bananas. It’s one of her most famous pictures and a symbol of the Jazz of the 1920s, and it also gave birth to the term “Art Deco”.
Baker was not only an entertainer but also an activist. During World War Ⅱ, she aided the Red Cross, the French Forces and the French Resistance. And in the United States she refused to perform for segregated audiences and is noted for her involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1975 Josephine Baker died in France.
Louise Brooks
LOUISE BROOKS
Louise Brooks, who was born in 1906, has one of the most iconic flapper looks: Her bobbed hair, The American was a famous dancer, an actress and later in her life an author. She came into the spotlight as Lulu in the film Pandora’s Box.
Her career began at the age of 15, when Brooks dropped out of school to move to New York City to join the Denishawn dance troupe. She performed two seasons with Denishawn, but was dismissed at the end of her second season, because St. Denis, one of the most renowned artists of that time, thought that Brooks was possessed by a superior attitude.
After this, she found work as a Broadway chorus girl and became a Zeigfeld showgirl.
Brooks travelled to England, where she found work at the city’s famed Café de Paris and became the first person to dance the Charleston in London. This helped her get noticed by film star Charlie Chaplin, with whom she had an affair that lasted one summer.
When Brooks was 18 years old, she signed a five-year contract with Paramount, which is still a leading film studio, but in her days, she was never really considered a major star in the film industry. In 1985 Louise Brooks died of a heart attack.
Clara Bow
CLARA BOW
Clara Bow, born Clara Gordon Bow in 1905 was an American actress which became famous through silent films during the 1920s.
At the age of the 16 she participated at the nationwide acting contest, because previous winners got film roles, and Bow wanted to be an actress. She won an evening gown and a silver trophy, but the breakthrough never came after the competition.
In 1921 Bow was introduced to the director Christy Cabanne, who cast her in Beyond the Rainbow and was really impressed by her, but she was cut out in the final print. Bow dropped out of school after this incident and worked a normal job.
But her father encouraged her to keep looking for a film role because it was a huge dream of her. In 1923 she was featured in the silent film Down to the Sea by Elmer Clifton, which helped her getting known as an actress.
One year later Bow got her first lead role in the film Poisoned Paradise.
The appearance in the film It brought her global fame and the name “The It Girl”. Now she is still the personify to the Roaring Twenties and is often described as its leading sex symbol.
In 1965 she died of a heart attack.
The Magic of Musicals New Cabaret Show
Our new Cabaret Show ‘Magic of Musicals‘ is specially designed for Care Homes, bringing joy and entertainment to residents. This Cabaret show takes you on a journey through time, from the Roaring Twenties up to the Swinging Sixties. The show is a celebration of Broadway and Hollywood’s rich tapestry of music and dance across the decades.
Musicals can transport us to different worlds and stir our emotions through the magic of music and dance. Brought to you by MyCharleston our performance is specially designed for Care Homes, bringing joy and entertainment to residents.
This cabaret show takes you on a journey through time, from the Roaring Twenties up to the Swinging Sixties. It’s a celebration of Broadway and Hollywood’s rich tapestry of music and dance across the decades.
Our dynamic trio of dancers and singers love to put on a show, whatever the setting you are sure to be entertained. With dazzling costumes and quirky props these three performers create a show which offers a wide variety of styles and themes.
“The residents at The Queensmead, Polegate, were delighted to see the MyCharleston ladies dance and sing! It was a wonderful afternoon of amazing costumes, fun, and magic of the musicals.”
Our musical journey through time begins in the 1920s. It’s prohibition in America but at Fat Sam’s Grand Slam the drink is flowing and the flapper girls are dancing. From Tallulah and The Bad Guys we travel to 1920’s Berlin where “life is a Cabaret old chum, so come to the Cabaret!”
As we travel through the decades we add a touch of Hollywood glamour to our show. With classic songs by ‘Marylyn Monroe’ and iconic dances from Bob Fosse’s Musical ‘Chicago” These numbers are a celebration of the great Hollywood stars.
As the cabaret show comes into full swing, we invite the audiences to join in with us for a couple of numbers. With an easy to learn ‘call and response’ tune we encourage the residents to let go of their inhibitions and have a bit of fun. This is followed by a song and dance which has some simple actions so the audience can participate from the comfort of their chair.
The finale of the show brings us to a decade we all love and remember, the Swingin’ Sixties. It was a time when Hairstyles were big and Hairspray was all the rage. “You Can’t Stop The Beat” so get ready to groove, toe tap and knee slap as we end the show on an energetic high.
““We had an amazing afternoon at the Cabaret show! it felt just like when I used to perform on stage and took me back to happy times. The girls did very well and sang beautifully.”
How to Book
Email us: hello@mycharlestondance.com
Call: 07521 645 445
Make an Enquiry with the form below
Videos: Watch the first term of 2024
Watch the videos from our first term of 2024. This routine was taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and Online. The videos include: Everybody Loves My Baby , Bugsy Malone, Partner Charleston and Intermediate Level performance of Sugar Root Rag.
Watch the videos from our first term of 2024. This routine was taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, Holland, the Midlands and Online. The videos include: Everybody Loves My Baby , Bugsy Malone, Partner Charleston and Intermediate Level performance of Sugar Root Rag.
Hove Morning GROUP
hOVE Evening GROUP
Brighton GROUP
Lewes gROUP
EASTBOURNE gROUP
PORTSMOUTH gROUP
Online gROUP
De Oever - Holland groups
Midlands groups
Bugsy Malone - Musicals Group hoVE
Bugsy Malone - Musicals Group zOOM
intermediate group - SUGAR FOOT RAG
pARTNER CHARLESTON
Videos: What's on 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.'
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.
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
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.
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - Moten Swing
BOOK NOW
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.
What do you learn in a Partner Charleston class?
With not one but two Partner Charleston events coming up in February, here is a glimpse of what awaits you in our upcoming workshops and courses.
With not one but two Partner Charleston events coming up in February, here is a glimpse of what awaits you in our upcoming workshops and courses.
Confidence in Fundamentals: 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.
Crafting Your Unique Routine: But we don't just stop at the basics. Our goal is to empower you to craft your unique routine. Imagine dancing with joy, syncing your steps with the music and your partner during social dances. We aim to make every step a celebration of self-expression.
Inclusive Learning Environment: Whether you come solo or with a friend, our workshops are designed for everyone. While there will be some partner rotation, couples who attend together will stay paired during routine practice. If you come alone, fear not – we'll pair you up with a fellow student or a teacher fostering a supportive learning environment.
Key Components of Partner Charleston Masterclass:
The Fundamentals: Mastering key steps, Charleston in different holds, turns, spins, and coordinated travel techniques.
Lead and Follow Techniques: Clear communication and awareness are crucial in partner dancing. We guide you through simple techniques for effective leading and following.
The Importance of Frame: Learn how to use your frame to connect with your partner and move as one cohesive unit.
Choosing Your Next Step: Understand how to pick and choose steps that connect well, creating memorable patterns for social dancing.
Dancing to Various Tempos: Practice footwork to different tempos and BPMs, discovering what suits your style best.
Building Confidence on the Dancefloor: Navigate errors, cues, and frame improvements with confidence, whether in a social setting or a choreographed routine.
Expressive Dancing: Unleash the playful side of Charleston by learning to use facial expressions while moving – a key element in communication during this lively dance.
If Partner Dancing resonates with you, join us:
Weekend Workshop:
10th Feb
Time: 2-4 pm
Venue: Open Space Studios
Dive deep into the basics of 1920s Partner Charleston, an ideal Valentine's Day gift!
6 Week Course:
Every Thursday starting from 22nd Feb
Time: 6 pm
Venue: Open Space Studios
Master fundamental principles, simple turns, and create a fantastic routine for your next social event.
👯 Join as a Pair or Solo: Book your spot as a follower, a lead, or as a pair. Secure your place now via the link below
Vintage Wonderland: MyCharleston Christmas Speakeasy Unveiled!
The holiday season just got a whole lot more dazzling as MyCharleston transported us to a bygone era with our very own Christmas Speakeasy. This festive extravaganza was a glittering blend of vintage charm and dance magic that added an extra sparkle to the celebrations.
The holiday season just got a whole lot more dazzling as MyCharleston transported us to a bygone era with our very own Christmas Speakeasy. This festive extravaganza was a glittering blend of vintage charm and dance magic that added an extra sparkle to the celebrations.
We made sure to capture every twirl, dip, and shimmy of the day, and now we're thrilled to share the magic with you! Dive into the enchanting performances from our talented students who lit up the night with their grace and charisma. From the classic steps to the musical theatre, each video encapsulates the spirit of the Speakeasy. Our students truly shone like stars on that special night, huge congratulations to everywho who took part!
Everybody Loves my Baby
Performed By Co-Founders, Elena and Fiona
Button Up Your Overcoat
Performed by Open Level Charleston Students
When You’re Smiling
Performed by Our Intermediate Group
You Can’t Stop the Beat
Performed by our Musicals Group
If you would like to perform now is your chance as all students on our February term will be invited to perform at the MyCharleston Speakeasy at Brighton Speigeltent on 18th May. To join and book a course please follow the link below.
Videos: Watch our Winter 2023 Routines
Watch the videos from our Sing Sing Sing course. These routines have been taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth and Online. See if you can spot yourself or a friend!
Watch the videos from our latest winter 2023 routines. This routine was taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and Online. The videos include: Sing Sing Sing, Anything Goes, Partner Charleston and Intermediate Level performance on Tailspin.