Dancing in DC CHECK OUT DC’S SWING DANCING COMMUNITY
States was new and exciting back then, but as many long-time D.C. area residents know, that excitement comes with an unrelenting pace of daily life. It helps to have outlets for letting go and having fun. That’s where swing dancing comes into play. I first learned how to swing dance when I was in college back in 2004. I can do East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, and a few others. When I initially arrived in D.C., I was pretty happy to find a few organizations around the city where I could keep dancing. The biggest local one is Gottaswing. They put on a lot of dances and events such as Speakeasy Nights. I’ve been to dances all over the city. They hold them in churches with big fellowship halls, old renovated fire stations, and event centers. Sometimes we’ll get live music to
dance along with, like the Foggy Bottom Whomp-Stompers, who play authentic 1920s jazz at Gottaswing's Speakeasy Nights, which includes a drink with the price of admission. The D.C. Lindy Exchange (DCLX), an annual event in the city, which normally takes place in April. It’s an opportunity for dancers to exchange partners and meet other dancers from all over. Even though the culture of politics and intellectualism might overshadow the arts in D.C., there are still plenty of opportunities for self-expression and fun. You just have to look for them. So get out there and swing dance!
When I moved to D.C. 10 years ago, it was because I wanted to do something with my political science degree. After all, where better to live if you want to pursue a career in that field? Living in the capital of the United
-Brooke Birkey
202.393.3320 • 3
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