Lindy Hop is a partnered jazz dance that was created by African American dancers in Harlem, New York at the end of the 1920s. It evolved alongside the swinging jazz rhythms of the era as hot jazz, ragtime and stride piano gave way to big band swing. It embodies those rhythms as well as the values of improvisation, creativity, connection and community as a part of African American culture.

You may have heard the term “swing dancing” before - Lindy Hop is a type of swing dancing. There are a number of other swing dances from this era that you may see on the social dancefloor e.g. Balboa, Collegiate Shag, Charleston.

Learn more about the history of the dance, its pioneers and its legacy here.

No! In all our classes, we rotate partners so you’ll meet everyone. Lindy Hop is a social, improvised dance and so rather than learning a pattern or routine, you’ll learn the skills to communicate with one another, whatever your role, enabling you to dance with everyone.

Wear whatever you’re comfortable dancing in - it can get pretty warm on a dancefloor so light layers are a great idea. During the evening, you may find a change of shirt is a good idea if you want to freshen up.

Flat, smooth soled shoes are a good shout as you don’t want grips on your shoes slowing you down or making it harder to move freely. Please do not wear high heels as you risk injuring other dancers.

We’ll be kicking off the night with a Lindy Hop Taster Class, giving you the basics to get you on that dancefloor and having fun all night long. No experience required.

There is street parking available along The Esplanade; please note that this may mean you need to walk a short distance to the venue.

If you would rather come by public transport, Penarth Train Station is just 3 stops from Cardiff Central (approx 15 minute journey) and trains run regularly. The station is a 20-25 minute walk from the venue; please be aware the walk back to the station will be uphill.

The Swing Project strives to create safe, inclusive spaces for all attendees to enjoy. Please consult our Codes of Conduct for more information regarding behaviour and practices.