Who Dat Steppers (WDS) of New Orleans, LA (NOLA), LLC, dba, Urban Swing Dance Institute (USDI)

For anyone in Louisiana looking to connect with the rich cultural legacy of New Orleans through movement, while also contributing to positive community change, Who Dat Steppers (WDS) of New Orleans, LA (NOLA), LLC, doing business as Urban Swing Dance Institute (USDI), offers a truly unique and impactful experience. This organization is far more than just a place to learn to dance; it's a socially and culturally conscious entity with a powerful mission: "social dancing for social change." They are deeply dedicated to the valuation and preservation of the original American art forms of Jazz and Urban Swing Dance, particularly Lindy Hop, tracing their vibrant origins from New Orleans' historic Congo Square to Harlem's iconic Savoy Club.

At its core, WDS-USDI uses these uniquely African American creations as a foundation for unification, economic empowerment, and liberation. Their goal extends beyond the dance floor to actively change health, social, and economic outcomes for current and future generations within the community. For Louisiana locals, this means engaging with a vibrant part of history through joyful movement, while simultaneously supporting an organization committed to redistributing tourism benefits to the communities of origin by developing and supporting dance clubs in New Orleans neighborhoods. It's an invitation to not just dance, but to be an "architect of a new economic movement," experiencing urban swing dance as a return to cultural, psychological, and economic sovereignty.

Who Dat Steppers (WDS) / Urban Swing Dance Institute (USDI) is conveniently located at 1995 Gentilly Blvd Suite C-6, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA. This address places the institute in the vibrant Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans, making it accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas of Louisiana. Gentilly Boulevard is a significant thoroughfare, ensuring straightforward navigation for those traveling by car or public transportation.

The accessibility of this location is a key benefit for local users. For those driving, the presence of a suite in a commercial building often implies dedicated parking options or readily available street parking in the vicinity, which facilitates easy access for participants. Furthermore, Gentilly Boulevard is well-served by New Orleans' public transportation system, with various bus routes operating along the street. This makes it convenient for individuals who rely on transit to attend classes, workshops, or social dance events without the need for a personal vehicle. The location in the heart of New Orleans allows WDS-USDI to be deeply embedded in the community it serves, fostering greater participation and supporting its mission of social dancing for social change right where it can have the most impact. This combination of central location and accessibility ensures that the transformative power of urban swing dance is within reach for many Louisianans.

Who Dat Steppers / Urban Swing Dance Institute offers a unique array of services centered around urban swing dance, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. While specific class schedules may vary, their core offerings generally include:

• Urban Swing Dance Instruction: Specializing in Urban Swing Dance, particularly Lindy Hop, WDS-USDI provides instruction for all levels. This includes:

  • Beginner Classes: Designed to introduce newcomers to the fundamentals of urban swing dance, focusing on basic steps, rhythm, and partner connection. Lindy Hop and East Coast Swing are often taught for drop-in classes, providing a solid foundation.
  • Progressive Classes: For those looking to advance their skills, building upon foundational knowledge with more intricate footwork, styling, and techniques.

• Social Dance Events: A core component of their mission, WDS-USDI organizes social dance gatherings. These events provide opportunities for dancers to practice their skills in a relaxed setting, meet other enthusiasts, and engage in the joyous social aspect of swing dancing. Live music events are a frequent feature of the New Orleans swing scene, providing an authentic experience.

• Cultural Preservation and Education: Beyond teaching steps, the organization is dedicated to the "valuation and preservation of the cultural and historical legacy" of Jazz and Urban Swing Dance. This often includes educational components within classes, workshops, or special events that delve into the history and significance of these art forms from their origins in Congo Square and the Savoy Club.

• Community Empowerment Initiatives: WDS-USDI actively works towards "social dancing for social change." This mission includes efforts to change health, social, and economic outcomes for current and future generations. This may manifest through partnerships, community outreach, and programs that use dance as a vehicle for broader community development.

• Redistribution of Tourism Economy: The organization aims to redirect tourism benefits from the central business district to the communities of origin by developing and supporting dance clubs in local neighborhoods. This directly supports Black-owned businesses and local economies.

• Workshops and Special Series: They likely host specialized workshops or dance series, potentially inviting guest instructors or focusing on specific aspects of urban swing dance, jazz history, or related cultural themes.

Who Dat Steppers / Urban Swing Dance Institute stands out for several unique features and highlights that make it a significant asset to the New Orleans community and beyond.

• Mission-Driven Approach: Social Dancing for Social Change: This is arguably their most defining feature. WDS-USDI is not just a dance school; it's a socially and culturally conscious organization with a clear mission to use dance as a tool for positive social, health, and economic outcomes for the community. This adds a profound layer of purpose to every class and event.

• Cultural Preservation and Historical Legacy: The institute is dedicated to valuing and preserving the historical legacy of Jazz and Urban Swing Dance (Lindy Hop), tracing their roots directly to New Orleans' Congo Square and Harlem's Savoy Club. This commitment to authenticity and history provides a rich educational experience alongside the physical activity.

• Community Empowerment and Economic Redistribution: WDS-USDI actively works to redistribute tourism benefits to the communities where these dance forms originated. By creating and supporting dance clubs in local neighborhoods, they directly foster economic empowerment within historically underserved areas, supporting Black-owned businesses and local growth.

• Focus on Unification and Liberation: They explicitly use urban swing dance as a foundation for unification, economic empowerment, and liberation. This highlights their role in building bridges within the community and using artistic expression to promote broader social justice and self-determination.

• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: While not explicitly stated in reviews, the mission of "social dancing for social change" and unifying communities strongly implies an inclusive atmosphere. The nature of social dance itself encourages connection and welcome for participants of all backgrounds and skill levels.

• Authentic New Orleans Experience: By focusing on dance forms with deep roots in African American culture and New Orleans history, WDS-USDI offers an authentic cultural experience that is unique to the city and region, attracting both locals and visitors interested in genuine NOLA traditions.

For those interested in learning more about Who Dat Steppers / Urban Swing Dance Institute, participating in their classes or events, or supporting their mission, here is their contact information:

Address: 1995 Gentilly Blvd Suite C-6, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA

Phone: (504) 564-6941

Mobile Phone: +1 504-564-6941

Who Dat Steppers / Urban Swing Dance Institute is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Louisiana, particularly within the New Orleans area, who are looking for more than just a dance class. Its profound commitment to "social dancing for social change" makes it a unique and impactful community asset. For Louisianans, this means an opportunity to engage directly with the rich, authentic cultural heritage of Jazz and Urban Swing Dance, forms that have deep roots right here in New Orleans. By participating, individuals are not only learning a joyful dance style but are actively contributing to the preservation of a vital cultural legacy.

Moreover, WDS-USDI's mission to foster unification, economic empowerment, and improved health and social outcomes directly benefits local communities, ensuring that the vibrancy of New Orleans' cultural economy is shared broadly. For anyone seeking a welcoming environment where they can connect with others, learn an exciting dance form, and be part of a movement dedicated to positive social impact, Who Dat Steppers / Urban Swing Dance Institute offers an unparalleled experience. It's a true embodiment of New Orleans' spirit, inviting everyone to step onto the dance floor and become an active participant in building a better future, one swing at a time.

Who Dat Steppers (WDS) of New Orleans, LA (NOLA), LLC, dba, Urban Swing Dance Institute (USDI)

1995 Gentilly Blvd Suite C-6, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA