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Newcomers Guide
New to the Rock n Roll and Rockabilly scene and looking for some insight?
Our introduction is aimed at dancers and designed to help you visit classes and events with confidence. -
Jive Classes (TBC)
Learn 1950s Rock n Roll and Rockabilly Jive in the Yorkshire area.
More information coming soon.
Please Register so we can let you know more about confirmed class locations and times.
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What is Rock n Roll & Rockabilly Jive?- It's one of the three types of dance associated with the Rock n Roll and Rockabilly music scene since the early 1950s.
- It's a partnered dance requiring two people.
- It can be danced by most age groups and fitness levels.
- It's danced at weekly events all over the World.
- It's one of the three types of dance associated with the Rock n Roll and Rockabilly music scene since the early 1950s.
Why do people Jive?
- Music - If the rhythm grabs you, you'll know.
- Scene - If you're into the fashion or culture then at some point you'll need to step onto the dancefloor.
- Fitness - Dancing gives your mind and body a workout but Jive can offer everything from gentle aerobics to a full on athletic workout. It's your choice.
- Social - Learning a partnered dance allows you to take part in social events where you can dance with other people who know the same moves that you do.
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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 all these styles and more being danced along with a wide variety of fashions. 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 which this website focuses on, 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 an 8 beat pattern and 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 may see some of these dances being performed Socially: East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Boogie Woogie, Shag, Lindy Hop, Charleton, Balboa and Foxtrot.