Dance in the 1930's
Synopsis: This era of dance is often referd to as the Swing Era. In a time of economic distress, people turned to dance as an outlet and psychological comfort as they would all come together at ballrooms and dance clubs. Many dances were more fast paced, and influenced by African Americans. This age of dance was marked by its simplicity and groovy moves.
Examples:
- The Lindy Hop aka The Daddy of Swing: named after Charles Lindbergh after George Snowden described it in a newspaper article as "Lindy Hops the Atlantic". This dance was inspired and originated in Harlem, then spread down the east coast.
- The Balboa: Originating in Balboa Island, California, this dance is known for its smooth, tight footwork. It was said to have been created because the ballrooms would get so crowded that the dancers would have nowhere to swing their partner. The dance is ideal for fast paced music and was made famous by being the dance of the cartoon Popeye.
- The Carolina Shag: Starting in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, it was known as the official dance of the Carolinas. It was danced to Beach Music and was popular in dance competitions. It is often called a "man's dance" because it was the male partner that would do all the turns and footwork.
- The Big Apple: this dance came from a Souther black town in a "church-turned-nightculb", The Big Apple. It is a group circle dance and gave couples their "time to shine", it involved swing steps and required a caller. Arthur Murray called it a combination of a swing and square dance.
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Final Analysis: The 1930s was the Swing Era, where faster pace dances were created to escape the economic distress. The aged was most characterized by the Lindy Hop, although not originated in the 1930s it gained mass popularity, it was notable for its swingy moves and Harlem influences.