How to Dance the Charleston

Summary

Learn the energetic and fun Charleston dance, originating from Charleston, South Carolina by James P. Johnson and first performed on Broadway. This dance combines rhythmic footwork and expressive arm movements. The key steps include stepping forward with the right foot, stepping back with the left, and twisting your feet as if 'squishing' something. To make the movements fluid and free, use your arms with a structured style, gradually becoming more relaxed. To stay in sync with the music, remember the timing—'five, six, seven, eight.' The Charleston is a lively dance that lets you express freedom and rhythm with every step.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Charleston dance originated in Charleston, South Carolina, created by James P. Johnson.
• 😀 It was first performed on Broadway, gaining wide popularity after its debut.
• 😀 The key element of the Charleston is its rhythmic footwork, which feels like you're squishing something beneath your feet.
• 😀 To start, it's important to count the timing as 'five, six, seven, eight' to stay in sync with the music.
• 😀 Begin by stepping forward with your right foot and stepping back with your left foot.
• 😀 The movement should alternate back and forth, emphasizing the rhythm in your steps.
• 😀 Twisting the feet is a crucial aspect of the dance, creating the signature Charleston feel.
• 😀 The arms add structure to the dance, giving it a more dynamic and engaging look.
• 😀 Once comfortable with the foot movements, allow your arms to flow freely to enhance the dance.
• 😀 The Charleston combines energy and fluidity, making it a lively and fun dance style.
• 😀 The overall goal is to enjoy the freedom of movement and rhythm while expressing yourself through the dance.

Q & A

Where did the Charleston dance originate?

The Charleston dance originated in Charleston, South Carolina.

Who was the first to introduce the Charleston on Broadway?

James P. Johnson was the first to introduce the Charleston dance on Broadway.

What is one characteristic that makes the Charleston dance unique?

One unique characteristic of the Charleston is the twisting foot motion, which feels like you're squishing butter or stepping on books.

Why is it important to think about the 'five, six, seven, eight' before starting the Charleston?

Thinking about the 'five, six, seven, eight' helps you sync your movements with the music and ensures you're in time with the rhythm.

What should you focus on with your feet during the Charleston?

You should focus on creating a rhythmic back-and-forth motion with your feet while twisting them, as this is the core movement of the Charleston.

What is the recommended mental image to help with the foot movements of the Charleston?

Imagine that you're squishing butter or stepping on books to help master the twisting motion of your feet.

How should your arms move when performing the Charleston?

Your arms should have some structure to match the rhythm of the dance. As you get more comfortable, you can allow your arms to move more freely.

What role does freedom of movement play in the Charleston dance?

Freedom of movement is important as it allows you to add your own personality and style to the dance, making it more expressive and fun.

What should you do once you're comfortable with the footwork in the Charleston?

Once you're comfortable with the footwork, you can add more freedom to your arm movements and express yourself through the dance.

How can practicing the Charleston improve your dancing skills?

Practicing the Charleston helps you develop rhythm, coordination, and confidence, allowing you to better sync your movements with music and add your own flair to the dance.