In 1943, MGM studios filmed a short called Groovie Movie that showcased a style of Lindy Hop made popular in Southern California by Dean Collins. Our heroine, Jean Veloz (nee Phelps) starred in that film. It has since become a favorite of and inspiration for Lindy Hoppers all over the world.
See the original Groovie Movie at JeanVeloz.com>

Since first introducing Washington, DC to this style of Lindy in 1998, Tom and Debra have celebrated the original dancers and their delicious style with an annual event. This year we proudly feature 2007 World Swing Dance champions BENJAMIN RICARD (So sorry, Ben's regular partner GENEVIEVE KEROUAC can't make it this year--she's working for the circus!). And of course, no weekend would be complete without our darling JEAN VELOZ. We're delighted to have Jean's brother RAY PHELPS back with us too.

On Friday night at Chevy Chase Ballroom with music by BLUE SKY 5, you'll be introduced to our stars for the weekend, be treated to a special dance performance by Jean and Ray, and we'll show the film short that started it all, Groovie Movie. Saturday night will be a kick-out-the-jams dance at the beautiful Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park with the wonderful SINGCO RHYTHM ORCHESTRA, with more memorable dance performances.

On Saturday and Sunday, we feature don't-miss workshops with Ben Ricard. This technique-intensive weekend will concentrate on the hidden factors that make this smooth and fluid dance style so desirable. Saturday's classes will focus on the principle of connection and stretch that is at the heart of this style, plus some footwork variations that will add sophistication and style to your dancing. On Sunday, three classes take you from the fundamentals of Jean's smooth Hollywood-style up to more advanced-level styling with a final wrap-up that helps you tie all the ends together into one beautiful package. These classes are perfect to take in a series to allow you to more fully explore the shadings of this style of Lindy. Whether you're new to the delights of Lindy or an experienced dancer, you'll learn something new in all of these classes.

Back to TOP ^

GM2009 Home | Biographies | Classes | Dances | Directions to Venues