Balboa

Traditionally a fairly fast close-to-your-partner dance with fancy footwork in limited space. The name Balboa refers to a dance tradition emanating from the Balboa peninsula outside of Los Angeles. The dance form has in recent years experienced a remarkable revival, both within the already established Lindy Hop scene as well as living an independent life in its own right.

Origin: southern California (U.S.) in the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Music: classic big band music of the swing era.
Synonyms: Bal, Bal-swing and Swing.
Film clips: Venice Beach (1938), Start Cheering (1939) and Maharaja (1943).

Balboa Alternatives:

BEGINNER (WEEKEND FULL TIME)

The word itself is self-explanatory, and no previous dance experience at all is necessary. The classes, each 70 minutes long, will start from scratch and will pay attention also to newcomers equipped with two left feet. Check-in will take place on late Friday afternoon, and will be immediately followed by the first class; the remaining six classes will take place on Saturday and Sunday.

Available: July 3 - July 6

For more detailed information about the Beginner Weekend, please visit here.

BEGINNERINTERMEDIATE (ONE WEEK FULL TIME)

Students should have a basic understanding of fundamentals around rhythms and patterns. The intention on this level is to focus around how to improve basics, but also to spend time on connection and general technique.

Available: Week 1

INTERMEDIATE (ONE WEEK FULL TIME)

At this level there should be an understanding of the Balboa rhythms, and the mix between the different styles related to closed and open positions. This class will focus on different kinds of footwork, as well as a handful of lead- and follow figures that are a little bit more challenging than just the basic patterns.

Available: Week 1

INTERMEDIATEADVANCED (ONE WEEK FULL TIME)

On this level, fundamental basics and good Balboa rhythms should be since long established. The ability to follow different rhytmical variations, both in closed and open positions and different tempi, should not represent a major problem.

Please notice that the registrations for IntermediateAdvanced and Advanced both include a mutual audition. When applying for either of these programs, please sign up for Balboa IntermediateAdvanced and Advanced at the registration page on My Herräng.

Available: Week 1

ADVANCED (ONE WEEK FULL TIME)

An advanced level is naturally a level where a lot of very experienced dancers are spending time. The tempo of both the music and the teaching will be challenging, the focus will often relate to improvisation and personal interpretation. Rhythmical sensitivity is a must to follow programs on this level.

Please notice that the registrations for IntermediateAdvanced and Advanced both include a mutual audition. When applying for either of these programs, please sign up for Balboa IntermediateAdvanced and Advanced at the registration page on My Herräng.

Available: Week 1