Uptown Swing

For Minnesotans looking to step back in time, experience the exhilarating joy of partner dancing, and connect with a vibrant community, Uptown Swing in Minneapolis stands as the Twin Cities' premier destination for Lindy Hop and other swing dance styles. Far more than just a dance hall, Uptown Swing is a dedicated educational institution and a social hub, passionately preserving and promoting the original form of swing dancing. Whether you're a complete novice with two left feet or an experienced dancer eager to refine your moves, this local gem offers an incredibly welcoming and effective pathway into the world of swing.

Uptown Swing has earned its stellar reputation through its top-notch instruction and an unwavering commitment to fostering a fun, inclusive environment. As countless local reviews attest, it's "by far the best place to learn Lindy Hop in the Twin Cities." Instructors like Peter and Maddie are celebrated for their ability to combine "creativity, technical expertise and humor to provide enjoyable instruction that moves at an appropriate pace." This blend ensures that learning to swing dance is not only effective but also incredibly fun and rewarding. For anyone in Minnesota eager to learn a new skill, meet new people, and immerse themselves in the lively spirit of swing, Uptown Swing is an undeniable must-try.

Uptown Swing operates from multiple accessible locations within Minneapolis, catering to different days and class levels. While their listed address is 3754 Pleasant Ave #105W, Minneapolis, MN 55409, USA, it's important for local users to note that their regular weekly classes are held at various dedicated dance venues:

• Mondays: Four Seasons Dance Studio (Minneapolis)
• Tuesdays: The PNA Hall (Polish National Alliance Hall, Minneapolis)
• Thursdays: Center for Performing Arts (Minneapolis)

These strategically chosen locations throughout Minneapolis ensure excellent accessibility for residents across the city and surrounding suburbs. Each venue is typically well-equipped for dance instruction, featuring suitable dance floors and spaces. Being distributed across different parts of the city also helps accommodate varying travel patterns for students. Public transportation options are generally available to these Minneapolis locations, and while specific parking details for each venue should be confirmed, metropolitan dance studios often have nearby street parking or accessible lots, making attendance convenient for Minnesotans. The consistent use of professional dance spaces underscores Uptown Swing's commitment to providing an optimal learning environment.

Uptown Swing specializes in providing comprehensive Lindy Hop and swing dance instruction and fostering a vibrant social dance community. Their services are designed to cater to all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced dancers.

• Progressive Lindy Hop Courses (Levels 1-4): Uptown Swing offers a structured, progressive curriculum designed to build skills week by week.
  • Level 1 (Beginner): Focuses on the foundational 6-count and 8-count Lindy Hop, as well as Charleston. No prior experience or partner is required, making it incredibly accessible for newcomers.
  • Level 2 (Intermediate): Builds upon the basics, introducing more complex patterns, variations, and musicality.
  • Level 3 (Advanced Intermediate): Delves into advanced techniques, connection, and improvisation.
  • Level 4 (Advanced): Offers specialized topics, including advanced swingouts, social steps, and routines.
• Solo Jazz Classes: Parallel to their partner dance courses, Uptown Swing offers Solo Jazz classes (including specific routines like the Tranky Doo or the Uptown Shuffle) for dancers looking to improve their individual rhythm, improvisation, and movement vocabulary.
• Crash Courses: For those looking for an intensive introduction or quick refresh, periodic crash courses are offered, allowing participants to learn fundamentals in a shorter, concentrated format.
• Weekly Office Hours & Practice Sessions: On Tuesdays, following classes, Uptown Swing hosts "Office Hours & Practice" sessions. These provide a valuable opportunity for students to get personal feedback from instructors and practice their moves with peers in a supportive environment.
• Social Dance Events: While the primary address listed is for the organizer, Uptown Swing actively participates in and promotes local social dance events, such as Rhythm Junction on Monday nights, which typically follows their Level 1 classes at Four Seasons Dance Studio. These events are crucial for applying learned skills in a real-world setting.
• Workshops and Special Classes: Throughout the year, Uptown Swing offers special classes and workshops focusing on specific techniques, historical aspects, or guest instructors.
• Annual "Uptown Swingout" Event: This major annual event brings together national and international instructors, offering intensive workshops, live music, and social dancing over several days, drawing swing dancers from across the region and beyond.
• Online Recaps: Uptown Swing often posts video recaps of their lessons, which are a helpful resource for current students and can also generate interest for new dancers.

Uptown Swing distinguishes itself as a premier dance hall and educational institution in Minnesota through several key features:

• Top-Notch, Internationally Recognized Instructors: The teaching staff at Uptown Swing is a major highlight. Instructors are not only skilled dancers themselves, often competing and instructing on a national to international level, but are also "dedicated teachers striving to give you the best learning experience." They are praised for their creativity, technical expertise, and humor.
• Beginner-Friendly Approach: A significant draw is that "no experience or partner is required" for their Level 1 classes. This welcoming policy ensures that anyone can join and start learning immediately, fostering a low-pressure entry into partner dancing.
• Progressive Curriculum: The structured, month-long courses are designed to help students "make real progress," building confidence week by week and preparing them for social dancing. This systematic approach ensures effective learning.
• Vibrant Social Dance Community: Uptown Swing is deeply embedded in the Twin Cities Lindy Hop scene. They not only teach but also encourage and facilitate social dancing, which is essential for developing real-world dance skills and forming connections within the community. The "Rhythm Junction" dance on Mondays is a testament to this vibrant social aspect.
• Focus on Lindy Hop Authenticity: The studio is dedicated to Lindy Hop, the original form of swing dancing, ensuring that students learn authentic techniques and gain an appreciation for the dance's rich history and culture.
• Inclusive Environment: Uptown Swing explicitly states, "We welcome all ages, colors, and genders!" and actively works to "keep the scene inclusive," fostering a community of respect, dignity, and inclusivity.
• Convenient Multiple Locations: By utilizing various dance venues across Minneapolis on different nights, Uptown Swing makes its classes accessible to a wider geographic range of students.
• "Uptown Swingout" Event: This annual festival is a major highlight, attracting top talent and providing an immersive experience for the local and regional swing dance community, offering advanced workshops, live music, and extensive social dancing.

For class schedules, registration, and more information about Uptown Swing, please contact them using the details below. It's recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date class schedules and venue details.

Primary Contact Phone: (612) 217-1087

Mobile Phone: +1 612-217-1087

Listed Address: 3754 Pleasant Ave #105W, Minneapolis, MN 55409, USA (Note: Weekly classes held at various Minneapolis venues, check website for details)

Website: uptownswing.net (for class schedules, instructor bios, and event info)

For Minnesotans, particularly those in Minneapolis and the surrounding metropolitan area, Uptown Swing is an unparalleled resource for learning and enjoying Lindy Hop and swing dance. Its commitment to comprehensive, progressive instruction ensures that even absolute beginners with no prior experience or partner can confidently learn to dance and thrive on the social dance floor. The glowing reviews from local students, who praise the "wonderful instructors" for their technical expertise, humor, and ability to foster confidence, speak volumes about the quality of the experience.

Beyond the excellent classes, Uptown Swing cultivates a vibrant and inclusive community, making it easy for locals to meet new people and integrate into the thriving Twin Cities swing dance scene. The convenience of classes held at various accessible venues across Minneapolis, coupled with regular practice sessions and lively social dances like Rhythm Junction, provides ample opportunities for learning and enjoyment. If you're a Minnesotan looking for a fun, active, and social hobby that connects you to a rich cultural tradition, Uptown Swing offers an inviting and rewarding experience that will have you swinging with joy in no time.

Uptown Swing

3754 Pleasant Ave #105W, Minneapolis, MN 55409, USA