So what exactly is Swing Dancing?

Swing dancing originated in the late 1930s and reached it’s peak in the 1940s with Big Bands led by Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, and Count Basie. These Bands had the lads jumping and jiving in dance halls across the world. Dance halls were the night clubs of the day and many had more than 1000 people swing dancing most nights of the week! To name a few, The Savoy Ballroom, The Cotton Club and The Trocadero are some of the legendary dance halls where Swing reigned supreme!!

Although the classic 40s era may be over, the music, dancing and fashion still lives on today! Some old timers even say that there are more people swing dancing worldwide today than back in the 40s. Neo-swing artists, such as Royal Crown Revue, Cherry Poppin' Daddies and Brian Setzer have Swing music still hitting the charts today!

And what do I wear to the Gangsters' Ball?

Dress code is strictly 1920's - 40's Gangsters, Flappers & Molls, Burlesque, traditional Dance Hall Swing & Rockabilly. Below are some ideas to get you started:

Guys - Gangsters & Zoot Suits

Gals - Flappers, Molls, Vintage & Burlesque