Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What kind of dances do you teach?
A: We currently teach vintage styles of Swing: Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing or Jitterbug, Charleston, Balboa, and Collegiate Shag. This is the dancing you may have seen in Swing Kids, MalcolmX, and the Khakis Swing Gap commercial. We currently have dance classes every Wednesday Night at the Rumba Room. We also occasionally bring in out-of-town instructors to teach weekend workshops.

Q: Which class level should I take?
A: If this is your first time taking dance lessons, you can start with Monday's free Swing 101 class. They are designed for beginners with no experience. For more info on class levels, please see our Level Descriptions page.

Q: Do I need to bring a partner your classes?
A: This is not necessary--both couples and singles are welcome! Many people come by themselves and historically we have a good gender balance. We will rotate partners frequently so that nobody is asked to stand out for long during the lesson.

Q: What should I wear?
A: You should wear comfortable clothing and flat-soled shoes to your first classes. Eventually many people decide to invest in accessories like dance sneakers. When you are ready to take the plunge, we will be more than happy to show you the footwear and clothing we find most effective.

Q: Why should I learn to Swing Dance?
A: The people are fun, the music is fun and the dancing is fun! Dancing is something anyone can do, and Swing dances are a great way to meet people, socialize, and exercise. Plus you're guaranteed to dance away with more than a few friends.

Q: What's a Lindy Bomb?
A: Basically, its when swing dancers go to a public venue where there is not normily swing dancing and dance. Sometimes we may go where there is live music. And there's a place with a juke box that we like to lindy bomb often - we play music on the juke box and dance. Its not something we have to organize. All we do is show up and dance. Its always a blast!

Q: What is Red Hot Lindy Hop all about?
A: Red Hot Lindy Hop is dedicated to the preservation of the vintage Swing Dances, as well as sharing our knowledge with those willing to learn. Red Hot Lindy Hop's board of members work to promote swing dancing here in Memphis through lessons, dances, and workshops.