Frequently Asked Questions
What is Modern Jive?
Modern Jive is a partner dance based on Salsa and Jive. It's fun, stylish and very easy to learn (because there's no footwork) so you don't spend all your time staring at your feet. There are only 20 or so basic moves, and after mastering just 3 or 4 you and your partner can Modern Jive with confidence. There are, however, hundreds of combination moves which can be learnt after the basic dance is mastered; it is here that the dance really comes into its own. It can be danced to almost any type of music, so you can feel at home Modern Jiving in a nightclub, at a wedding, a party, in fact on practically any occasion, and what's more, it looks brilliant!
What happens at a Modern Jive evening?
A Modern Jive evening is in 3 parts. First a quick warm up lesson to get everyone moving on the dance floor. Next a beginners lesson of 3 or 4 basic moves in a simple routine; each week a different routine and different moves, so over the weeks your dance repetoire will steadily increase. Finally the main part of the evening, Freestyle dancing. Freestyle dancing is your chance to practise the moves you've learned that evening and on previous evenings. It is also the chance to develop your style and pick up more advanced moves from your fellow dancers on the dance floor. Now is the chance for the guy's to ask the girls for a dance, and also for the girls to ask the guys for a dance; so dance well guys because the best dancers get asked to dance most often!
So why is Modern Jive so Fantastic?
Beginners are welcome on any evening.
Excellent music.
Fun and easy to learn.
Great way to meet people.
Its a complete night out.
Fun alternative to the gym.
No previous dance experience required.
No need to come with a partner.
No need to book in advance.
No special clothing or shoes required.
I've never danced before, will that matter?
No problem. Complete beginners are welcome on any evening and no previous dance experience is required. Modern Jive is so easy that anyone can learn it; however much you think you've got two left feet you'll be jiving by the end of the evening, guaranteed.
What happens if I miss a week? Will I fall behind?
Don't worry! Each week's we teach a simple dance routine containing 3 or 4 simple moves, which are rotated over time into different routines. The moves tought on any given evening will be repeated again within a few weeks, so you'll never miss anything. Classes have been designed so that you can come as frequently (or infrequently) as you like; but obviously the more you come the better you'll get.
There's no need to bring a partner. During the class we mix everyone around, which means you will meet and dance with everybody at least once. It's a great way to meet new people.
What sort of people dance Modern Jive?
Modern Jive attracts people of all age groups and from all walks of life. Typically, Modern Jivers are between 25 - 45 years of age and more often than not, the women outnumber the men! This does not matter however, because in the lessons, the men and women are moved around so that everyone gets a turn dancing with everyone else.
Do I need to book a place at a class?
There's no need to book in advance. Simply turn up on the night and enjoy the evening.
No special clothing or shoes are required. There is no dress code so you can turn up in anything comfortable. However, don't wear anything too warm or constrictive and avoid training shoes as these make turning and spinning harder.
Will you be playing Rock'n'Roll music all night?
Modern Jive can be danced to almost any kind of music which has a good beat to it. Our DJs play an excellent selection of all types of music including Today's Chart-Hits, Salsa, Rock, Pop, Disco, 60s, 70s,80s, etc, etc, etc. We're sure to be playing music which will make you want to dance. And if we're not playing your favorite track, then just ask for it, we're sure to have it.
Do I need to be fit to dance Modern Jive?
You do not need to be in super shape to come jiving. Modern Jive is a fun alternative to the gym as dancing is great aerobic exercise and if you are not fully fit then Modern Jive will certainly help you get fit.
