Frankie Manning’s Shim Sham Workshop
with Shesha Marvin
Location: ATOMIC Ballroom
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
12:15 pm – 3:15 pm
All Levels
Step into swing dance history with Shesha Marvin as he brings Frankie Manning’s legendary Shim Sham to life. From iconic basics to playful variations, you’ll explore the rhythm, energy, and charm that make this routine a cornerstone of swing.
With moves like Stomp Offs, Tackie Annies, and Boogie Backs, Shesha will guide you through the steps in a way that’s fun, approachable, and packed with style. Perfect for dancers of all levels, this workshop is your chance to refine your solo jazz, connect with swing’s roots, and leave the dance floor feeling unstoppable.
No more sitting on the sidelines next time! The Shim Sham is performed at almost every swing dance night everywhere—at ATOMIC and around the world. Jump up and join in! Not only is it fun, but you’ll learn lots of steps you can use as styling in your swing dancing too.
Class Schedule
- 12:00 pm Registration / Check-in
- 12:15 pm • Stomp Offs & Full Break
- 1:00 pm • Pushes & Crossover
- 1:45 pm • Tackie Annies
- 2:30 pm • Half Break & Boogie Steps
A Brief History of the Shim Sham
The Shim Sham was originally created by Leonard Reed and Willie Bryant in the late 1920s while they were performing with the Whitman Sisters troupe on the Black vaudeville circuit. It began as a tap routine, first known as “Goofus,” and was built from simple, recognizable jazz step vocabulary that performers could easily remember and do together. Its purpose was practical and social at the same time: it worked well as a closing routine, gave performers a shared number they could jump into together, and quickly became a favorite because it was catchy, communal, and full of personality. Over time, it grew into one of the most enduring routines in jazz dance history and is often called the national anthem of tap.
What Is Frankie Manning’s Shim Sham?
Frankie Manning’s Shim Sham is one of the most recognized and beloved routines in the swing dance world. It is a solo jazz line dance that dancers often do together at swing events, live music nights, and special celebrations. Learning it gives you more than just a fun routine to dance. It gives you a shared language with the swing community and a deeper connection to the culture, history, and joy of jazz dance.
Workshop Pricing
• $70 presale
• 8 class credits
• $80 at the door
• VIP Membership 50% of pre-sale price
• Atomic Campus Access Members $45
Sign Up Now
This is a fun way to build your solo jazz, learn an iconic routine, and spend the afternoon with one of the most loved traditions in swing dance. Grab your spot now and come Shim Sham with us.