Understanding the Charleston Dance: Steps and History

The dance move you are referring to is commonly known as the Charleston. This iconic dance style, famous for its syncopated beats and signature hand and knee movements, has a rich history and continues to captivate dancers and audiences around the world.

The Charleston Dance: Overview

The Charleston, originally developed in the early 20th century, is best known for its energetic and playful style. It is a Jazz dance that emerged in African American communities in the early 1900s and gained popularity among the white population in the 1920s through the Harlem Renaissance.

Key Steps and Movements

The dance move you are describing—placing your hands on your knees and moving your knees in and out—is a classic element of the Charleston. Here are some key steps and movements associated with the dance:

Basic Charleston Step

Knee Separations: Place your hands on your knees. With a quick, sharp motion, move your knees apart and then bring them back together. This motion is often done with a shifting of weight from one foot to the other, creating a lively bounce. Kick and Hop: Alternate between knee movements and quick kicks. As one knee moves, the opposite knee powers through a quick kick, followed by jumping back down with your feet apart. This creates a rhythmic, bouncing effect. Side-to-Side Knee Movements: Move your knees side to side in a fluid motion, maintaining a slight bounce between each knee movement. This creates a smooth, flowing dance sequence.

History and Cultural Significance

The Charleston was not only a social dance but also a significant cultural symbol during the Roaring Twenties. It was closely linked to the music of the period, which included Ragtime and Jazz. The dance became a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and flapper culture—a term used to describe young women who embraced a more liberated lifestyle.

The dance itself was originally performed by African American dancers in Vaudeville shows and nightclubs. It quickly gained popularity when it was featured in the 1923 Broadway show Running Wild, and later in the 1928 film 'That Hot Stuffy Night'.

Learn to Dance the Charleston

For those interested in learning the Charleston, there are several resources available:

Online Tutorials

Videos on dance websites and YouTube channels provide detailed instructions and demonstrations of the basic steps and more advanced techniques. There are countless tutorial videos that break down the dance move you described, making it accessible to beginners and experienced dancers alike.

Dance Classes

Enrolling in a dance class can be a great way to learn the Charleston in a structured environment. Many dance studios offer classes in various styles, including Jazz, which often includes Charleston as part of their curriculum.

Practice and Experimentation

Start by practicing the basic steps alone or with a friend. As you become more comfortable, try adding variations and incorporating transitions to create your own unique dance moves. The key to mastering the Charleston is practice and experimentation, allowing you to develop your own style and expression.

Conclusion

The Charleston dance is more than just a set of movements; it is a rich cultural heritage that reflects the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. From its origins in African American communities to its widespread popularity in the 1920s and beyond, the dance has left an indelible mark on American dance history. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, exploring the Charleston can be an exciting and fulfilling journey.