The Shorty Gorge

For residents across New York, especially in the lively city of Ithaca, The Shorty Gorge stands out as a dynamic and inviting center for swing dance. This unique "point of interest" is more than just a place to learn dance steps; it's a thriving community dedicated to sharing the joy, energy, and athleticism of Lindy Hop and other swing dances. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or someone who believes they have "two left feet," The Shorty Gorge warmly welcomes everyone to experience the thrill of this Black American swing dance that blends various styles from the jazz era of the 1920s-1940s.

The core of The Shorty Gorge's appeal lies in its weekly swing dance events, which consistently draw a diverse crowd of enthusiasts. Every Thursday, the studio comes alive with a crash course in Lindy Hop, ensuring that even complete beginners can join the social dance with confidence. As the organizers emphasize, "No Partner or Experience Needed! ...Come learn and dance with us! Just bring yourself." This inclusive philosophy makes it incredibly accessible for New Yorkers looking for a fun and engaging way to be active and connect with others.

Beyond the weekly social dances, The Shorty Gorge also offers class series for those looking to deepen their understanding and technique. And, for an extra special treat, once a month, live bands fill the studio with infectious swing rhythms, elevating the dance experience to a truly memorable event. This commitment to fostering a vibrant and approachable dance scene has made The Shorty Gorge a beloved fixture in Ithaca's cultural landscape, providing a unique opportunity for locals to immerse themselves in the rich history and joyful expression of swing dance.

The Shorty Gorge holds its weekly swing dance events and classes at Ithaca Movement Arts, located at 119 S Cayuga St, Studio A, Room 301 (3rd floor), Ithaca, NY 14850, USA. This central location places the studio conveniently within downtown Ithaca, making it highly accessible for residents of the city and surrounding communities throughout Tompkins County and the wider Finger Lakes region of New York.

Being situated on South Cayuga Street, near the Ithaca Commons, means the studio is in a bustling and well-known area. For those traveling by car, parking options include street parking or parking garages near the Commons, which may incur a fee during certain hours. However, street parking often becomes free after 6 PM, which aligns perfectly with the evening class and social dance schedule. For those a bit further from the Commons, free street parking might be available. The ease of navigating to this downtown location is a significant advantage for New Yorkers, allowing them to integrate dance seamlessly into their weekly routines.

The studio's placement within Ithaca Movement Arts, a recognized local arts hub, further enhances its accessibility and appeal. This collaboration provides a dedicated and well-equipped space for dance, contributing to a comfortable and conducive learning environment. The Shorty Gorge's thoughtful choice of location underscores its commitment to being a convenient and welcoming destination for anyone in the New York area eager to experience the excitement of swing dance.

Services Offered:

• Weekly Swing Dances, including Lindy Hop.
• Free crash courses in Lindy Hop at the beginning of each weekly social dance.
• Class Series for deeper learning, such as "Intro to Lindy Hop 1," "Swing 1," "Swing 2: Next Thing," "Solo Charleston 1," "Balboa 1," and "Balboa 2."
• Live band nights held once a month for an enhanced dance experience.
• Opportunities to learn traditional Lindy Hop steps, including Breakaways, Circles, and partnered Charleston.
• Instruction on adjusting to music speed, connecting with dance partners, and improvisation.
• Emphasis on learning fundamentals of solo Charleston, including 20s and 30s style variations.
• Balboa instruction, covering fundamental movements, technique, and figures of Pure Balboa and Bal-Swing.
• Sliding scale pricing for weekly swing dances ($5-10), making it affordable.
• Free admission for volunteers on the evening they volunteer.
• Communication updates via email list for upcoming events and lessons.

Features / Highlights:

• Inclusive and welcoming atmosphere; no partner or prior dance experience required.
• Focus on energy, athleticism, and self-expression within the Lindy Hop style.
• Regular schedule: Every Thursday evening with a crash course from 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by social dance until 9:30 PM.
• Affordable pricing options, including a sliding scale and free entry for volunteers.
• Community-oriented approach, fostering a friendly environment for meeting new people.
• Provides structured learning through class series while also offering casual social dance opportunities.
• Offers insights into the history and origins of Lindy Hop and other swing dances.
• Accepts cash or Venmo for payment, providing convenience.
• Active presence on social media (Facebook, Instagram) for updates.
• Emphasizes a comfortable, judgment-free zone for exploration and growth.
• Located in a bright room, likely with adequate space for dancing, as it's Studio A.
• COVID-19 safety measures in place, with masks optional and responsible attendance encouraged.

Contact Information:

Address: 119 S Cayuga St 301 Studio A, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

Email: theshortygorge@gmail.com

The Shorty Gorge is an excellent choice for locals throughout New York, especially in the Ithaca area, seeking a fun, engaging, and accessible way to experience swing dance. Its commitment to welcoming all skill levels, with no partner required, eliminates common barriers to entry, making it an ideal starting point for anyone curious about dance. The weekly crash courses ensure that even complete beginners can quickly feel comfortable joining the social dance, fostering a sense of accomplishment and belonging.

For New York residents, the affordability of the weekly events, often with a sliding scale and volunteer opportunities for free entry, makes it a highly inclusive option. The addition of live band nights once a month adds a special touch, creating truly memorable evenings. The Shorty Gorge isn't just about learning steps; it's about building community, enjoying great music, and expressing oneself through movement in a supportive environment. Its vibrant atmosphere and dedication to the joy of swing dance make it a valuable and beloved "point of interest" for anyone in the local New York community looking to dance, connect, and have fun.

This video shows how to do a signature solo jazz move called (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ij-E_xPhCnU).

The Shorty Gorge

119 S Cayuga St 301 Studio A, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA