Introduction to Connection for West Coast Swing

Connection rocks. Good connection in west coast swing is what makes dance feel amazing. Like all social, lead-follow dances, west coast swing depends on connection to make the dance work, and the highest levels of the dance are made possible through the magic of connection. And it is magic—the experience of a great connection can leave you weak in the knees, with a sense of euphoria.

Dancers who connect well are in high demand on any dance floor.

Not only does a good connection feel amazing, but well-connected dancers can do things during the dance that simply are not possible for pattern-based dancers.

Play relies on connection in order to set up the moment and to get back into the dance.

Connected dancers can create moves on the fly based on what they are feeling from their partner. And connection is what makes it possible for one dancer to share what they are hearing in the music with their partner.

The goal of this series is to de-mystify the connection in west coast swing so that you can make your own magic on the dance floor.

There are dozens of theories of how connection should work in our dance.

The approach I would recommend to you is to try to learn them all.

At the end of the day, every method of connection gives you a tool to use, and each tool can be useful in specific situations.

So, explore with an open mind, and see just how amazing the dance can become!