One of the things I love about Orange County and the rest of the Southern Californian Lindy Hop community is their never ending ability to surprise me.  This is one of the largest and most consistent social swing dance communities in the world.  It’s survival hinges on the preservation of dance techniques, venues and history.  But it thrives on growth and innovation!

Inspiration Weekend is one of those events which challenges this community of social dancers to think outside the box, try new things, and push their technique.   Finding and expressing ones personal inspiration is the driving force, it becomes infectious and soon the whole community is hungry for more!

Here are some highlights you may have missed…

30 Second Showcase

What dance skills can you showcase to a crowd in 30 secs?!  This unique contest gives dancers of all levels a chance to share their personalities and dance repertoire in very creative ways. Some pairs bust out the high flying aerials, some show off their intricate and musical footwork, while others simply wow us with their energy and jitterbug silliness.  Many of these dances leave us wanting more than 30 seconds of their dancing…


*1st: Peter & Irina, 2nd: Stephen & Chandrae, 3rd: Jack & Brittany
 

“Make Frankie Proud”

This new contest puts the social dance improvisation back into dance battle!  Not only are contestants judged on the tricks they throw, but they are also judged on their ability to lead and follow a trick in front of a live band.


*1st: Alex & Brooke, 2nd: Peter & Irina, 3rd: Daniel & Katina
 

Apple Jacks to Apple Jacks Solo Jazz Contest

This is always my favorite Inspiration Weekend Contest!  When a social dancer is dancing solo, we have a chance let our personalities shine.  In that moment of inspiration, these contestants bring their individual style to bear on their jazz steps and the steps seem to transform.  Be debonair, be silly, roll your shoulders with attitude and throw high kicks when you’re excited – Just get out there, be yourself AND expand your jazz step vocabulary!


*1st: Peter, 2nd: Irina
 

Check out the rest of the Contest Results

Looking for more inspiration?

Check out the Balboa Workshop with Augie Freeman this weekend at Atomic Placentia.  Learn about a dance born right here in Orange County, refine the basics and push your balboa to the next level.