The Charleston is associated with ritzy Roaring 20’s parties, flappers, and the Great Gatsby. But, its roots come from the kids who would dance in front of the Jenkins Orphanage Marching Band. Jenkins’ band gained notoriety in the U.S. traveling from coast to coast and even performing overseas. The dance ‘The Charleston’ was coined by fans in northern cities calling for the kids from Charleston to do that ‘Charleston’ dance!
In 1923, it was featured in the American black Broadway musical comedy show ‘Runnin’ Wild.’ After that, the song and the dance became a national and international sensation!
In the early 1930’s, Lindy Hop and Swing dancing became the hot new dances of the Golden Age. Lindy Hop absorbed everything that was happening, and incorporating Charleston steps was natural.
We teach Charleston mainly as a part of the Lindy Hop course, but sometimes we also offer a special course on Charleston.
