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Newcomers Guide
New to the 1950s, Rock n Roll or Rockabilly scene and looking for an insight into the dancing, music and culture?
This introduction is designed to help you find your feet and get dancing with confidence at classes or events in the UK. -
1950s Jive Classes
Based near Pontefract, want2jive classes will be suitable for dancing to Rock n Roll, Rockabilly, Jump Blues and more.
Location and dates are still being planned, so please Register your interest so we can keep you posted.
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What is 1950s Jive?
- It's one of the three types of dance associated with the Rock n Roll music scene since the early 1950s.
- It's often called Rockabilly Jive, Rock n Roll Jive or 1950s Jive.
- It's a partnered dance usually requiring two people*.
- It can be danced by most age groups and fitness levels.
- It's danced at weekly events all over the World.
* Not recommended on your own but three or more is another story ;)
- It's one of the three types of dance associated with the Rock n Roll music scene since the early 1950s.
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Why do people Jive?
- They've been grabbed by the rhythm.
You'll know when this happens. - They're into the fashion or culture.
At some point they'll probably want to step onto the dancefloor. - To keep fit!
Jive can offer everything from gentle aerobics to a full athletic workout. It's your choice. - As a form of meditation.
Lose yourself in the music! - So they can dance socially.
Learning a partnered dance allows you to do this. - Any of the above, plus alcohol.
- They've been grabbed by the rhythm.
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Outside the UK
Want2jive focuses on the UK style of Rock n Roll and Rockabilly Jive along with it's culture, however, there are subtle variations as you look around the world.
If you attend the larger International Rock n Roll, Rockabilly or Swing Dance events, some of which are in the UK, you'll see many different dance styles with a wide variety of fashions too. There's a whole world out there :) -
Video courtesy of TonybeGood
Other types of Jive
In addition to the traditional Rock n Roll and Rockabilly Jive styles, there are several variations which you're very unlikely to see on a Rock n Roll or Rockabilly dancefloor:
Modern Jive/Ceroc - A smoother Social Jive style with less emphasis on footwork which is suitable for dancing to slower and more current music.
Ballroom Jive - This is a competition dance which you'll see on TV in programs such as Strictly. The dances you see are rehearsed and performed for judges and an audience.
Dance Sport Rock n Roll - A competitive acrobatic sport put to music. The dances you see are rehearsed and performed for judges and an audience.
Other vintage/swing dances
At vintage events, you'll probably see some other dances being performed socially, like East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Boogie Woogie, Shag, Lindy Hop, Charleton, Balboa and Foxtrot.