By Nisha Punwani
TAMPA, Fla. — Journalism professor David Wheeler from The University of Tampa is excited to announce that he will be hosting swing dance classes on campus.
Swing dance is an energetic and lively partner dance rooted in jazz music. This vibrant dance style originated in Harlem, New York, during the late 1920s, predominantly within African American communities. It encompasses a range of dance substyles, including Lindy Hop and Charleston, and typically features a variety of improvisational elements. Swing dance not only reflects the cultural heritage of the time but also symbolizes the spirit of joy and freedom that characterized the era’s music and social scene.
On Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 7:45 p.m., Wheeler and Jaimee Merimee held their first swing dance class on the Plant Hall terrace, across from the Southard Family Building. Enthusiastic students gathered to support Wheeler and left the session equipped with the basics of swing dancing.
Wheeler and Jaimee Merimee are both accomplished and trained dancers with extensive performance experience across the United States and England, showcasing a deep commitment to the art of dance.
In this session, they guided the students through a beginner lesson in swing dancing, explaining essential techniques, rhythms, and styles while focusing on building confidence and enjoyment in dancing.
The classes are open to all students, regardless of their prior dance experience, ensuring an inclusive environment for everyone who wants to learn.
In their lessons, Wheeler and Merimee meticulously broke down the movements to facilitate easy comprehension. They provided students with foundational skills and insight into the finesse and artistry involved in skilled swing dancing. Participants can expect to develop their abilities while enjoying a fun and dynamic learning experience.
Students have the option to attend the session either with a partner or solo, as they will be required to divide into two distinct groups. Each group is designated as either “leader” or “gollower,” based on the student’s choice. Participants in each group will focus on learning the foundational skills relevant to that role. After this introduction, Wheeler and Merimee organized the students into a circle. The group identified as “followers” then rotated clockwise to swap partners. This rotation ensured that each student had the opportunity to collaborate with various peers throughout the session, promoting a diverse learning experience.
The next class will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 7:45 p.m., on the Plant Hall terrace. For further information, please follow @spartanswingut on Instagram. This class is available to all students and faculty, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and get ready to dance the night away!
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David Wheeler and Jaimee Merimee, seasoned swing dancers, led the class on the fundamentals of swing dance. Photo courtesy of Nisha Punwani.