Swingin' Denver

Swingin' Denver is more than just a dance school; it's a vibrant community hub dedicated to sharing the joy and rich history of Lindy Hop and other swing-era dances with the people of Colorado. Since its founding in 2014 by Kenny Nelson, Swingin' Denver has cultivated a welcoming and inclusive environment where both seasoned dancers and absolute beginners can find their rhythm. For anyone in the Denver area looking for a fun, engaging, and social activity that also connects them to a significant cultural heritage, Swingin' Denver offers an unparalleled experience. It's a place where you can not only learn to dance but also build lasting friendships and immerse yourself in the energetic world of swing music and movement.

Swingin' Denver is primarily located at The Savoy at 2700 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80205, USA. This location places the studio within Denver's historic Five Points neighborhood, an area with a rich cultural past, especially in relation to jazz and community. The Savoy itself is a beautifully renovated Victorian building with historical significance, featuring a dance floor and social space that perfectly complements the spirit of swing dancing. Its proximity to the RiNo Arts and Entertainment District also means it's surrounded by a lively and creative atmosphere. For locals, accessing Swingin' Denver is convenient. There may be street parking options in the vicinity, and being in an established Denver neighborhood, it's also accessible via public transportation. This central and culturally significant location makes it easy for residents across the Denver metropolitan area to participate in classes and events, fostering a strong sense of community and accessibility for all who wish to join the dance.

Swingin' Denver offers a focused yet comprehensive range of services, primarily centered around Lindy Hop and related swing dances, while also emphasizing community building and cultural appreciation:

• Beginner Lindy Hop Classes: Tailored for those new to swing dancing, these progressive 4-week series start from the basics, teaching fundamental rhythms, footwork, and classic moves. Students don't need a partner, as rotation in class ensures everyone gets to dance with different people and meet new faces. The curriculum is designed to make learning fun and accessible, even for those who've never danced before.

• Intermediate Lindy Hop Classes: For dancers looking to advance their skills, Swingin' Denver provides intermediate classes that delve deeper into technique, musicality, and more complex variations of Lindy Hop and Charleston. These classes help dancers refine their movements and express themselves more fully on the social dance floor.

• Social Dance Events: A core component of the Swingin' Denver experience, the studio regularly hosts social dance nights. These events provide opportunities for students to practice their moves in a real-world setting, socialize with fellow dancers, and enjoy live swing and jazz music. Events like "Swingin' Under the Stars" at Little Man Ice Cream are popular community gatherings.

• Workshops and Special Offerings: Beyond regular classes, Swingin' Denver aims to offer workshops on other swing-era dances such as Balboa, Collegiate Shag, or more Vernacular Jazz, depending on demand and instructor availability. They also delve into the historical and cultural context of these dances.

• DJ and MC Mentoring Programs: The organization is committed to cultivating local talent, not just in dancing but also in music. They offer programs to train and mentor DJs and MCs, enhancing the overall quality of their events and contributing to the local swing dance scene.

• Live Music Collaborations: Swingin' Denver actively highlights and collaborates with local swing and jazz bands in Colorado, recognizing the crucial relationship between live music and swing dance. This commitment ensures an authentic and energetic dance experience for attendees.

Swingin' Denver stands out in the Colorado dance landscape due to several unique features and highlights that are consistently praised by its community:

• Unwavering Inclusivity and Welcoming Atmosphere: A cornerstone of Swingin' Denver is its deeply welcoming and safe environment. Testimonials highlight how the organization, and particularly its founder Kenny Nelson, makes a point of welcoming every new person to their first social dance. This commitment extends to creating policies and practices that ensure classes and events are safe and comfortable for everyone, regardless of body type, experience level, or background. As one long-term dancer noted, concerns about body shaming were met with kindness and encouragement, fostering a truly supportive space.

• Exceptional and Compassionate Instructors: The teaching staff, led by Kenny Nelson, receives consistent praise for their kindness, patience, and ability to help students at any level. Kenny's dedication to his students, making time for them, and his evolving pedagogical approach, which prioritizes student agency, are frequently highlighted as key strengths. The quality of instruction inspires love for swing dancing, even in complete beginners.

• Commitment to the Black Roots of Swing: A crucial and highly commendable feature is Swingin' Denver's dedication to acknowledging and highlighting the Black origins of swing and Lindy Hop. This cultural awareness and respect for the dance's history are seen as essential components of a successful swing dance school by its involved members, differentiating it from others.

• Vibrant Community Building: Students often describe feeling like "part of the DDC Family" after just one class. Swingin' Denver fosters a strong sense of community, providing a valuable opportunity for socialization and connection, especially for those new to Denver or looking to expand their social circle.

• Emphasis on Live Music: The school's commitment to showcasing and collaborating with local swing and jazz bands enriches the dance experience, providing dancers with the authentic energy of live music, which is fundamental to swing dancing.

• Adaptability and Evolution: Founded on principles of community, collaboration, and inspiration, Swingin' Denver has continuously evolved. Kenny Nelson's extensive international teaching experience and his ongoing reflection on how to honor and respect the Black vernacular dance form ensure the school remains dynamic and culturally relevant.

For inquiries, class schedules, or to connect with the Swingin' Denver community, please use the following contact information:

Address: 2700 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80205, USA

Phone: (720) 336-3440

Mobile Phone: +1 720-336-3440

For locals in Colorado, particularly within the greater Denver area, Swingin' Denver offers a truly exceptional and enriching experience. If you're looking for an active, social outlet, a unique way to exercise, or simply a chance to learn a new skill while immersing yourself in a vibrant culture, Swingin' Denver is an ideal choice. The consistently positive feedback from long-term participants underscores the welcoming nature of the community and the high quality of instruction, making it accessible even for those with no prior dance experience. Beyond the steps and rhythms, you'll find a supportive "family" that celebrates individuality and promotes an inclusive environment. Furthermore, Swingin' Denver's commitment to honoring the historical and cultural roots of swing and Lindy Hop, combined with its dedication to highlighting local live jazz music, provides a depth of experience that goes beyond mere dance lessons. It’s a place where you can not only learn to move your feet but also connect with the rich heritage of a truly American art form. For any Colorado resident seeking joy, community, and cultural engagement through dance, Swingin' Denver comes with the highest recommendation.

Swingin' Denver

2700 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80205, USA