For the latest information about classes and events... Email us to ask to join our Google Group.

You'll receive regular emails about classes, parties and just general goings-on with the Hilo Hep Cats

​

NEW TEMPORARY LOCATION: we are offering "outside" classes in a carport with a smooth, concrete floor.  Please wear athletic shoes or other footwear which provides a cushion.  Beginners welcome.

Vaccination required. Masks required. Class size strictly limited.

Please pre-register via email; no drop-ins.  Each class $5.

Solo Skills for Balboa - Mondays, Sept. 12 - Oct. 3

​

5:00 - 6:00 p.m.  Pure Balboa is the quintessential connection dance, requiring a close embrace.  But that connection might also be a distraction when learning the footwork and rhythm!  Build your confidence in common footwork variations, including both single- and double-count basics and out-and-ins.  Using props, we will practice counter-body movement as we learn ad-lib moves such as paddling.  Experienced Balboa dancers will be able to refine their techniques while beginners master the basics.  

​

Beginning Balboa- Mondays, Sept. 12 - Oct. 3

​​

7:00 - 8:00 p.m.  A classic swing dance style, Balboa can be danced to the same music as Lindy Hop but is so very, very different!  Expect a close embrace (similar to Blues or Tango) and subtle footwork in an eight-count rhythm.  Can you lead (or follow) without using your arms?  Can you interpret the subtle difference in weight shifts?  Balboa is a wonderfully versatile dance—particularly suited for fast music, and applicable to a wide variety of genres  (try Hawaiian and jazz!) 

​​

Beginning 6-Count Lindy Hop - Tuesdays, Sept. 13 - Oct. 4

​​

5:00 - 6:00 p.m. A great class to start your swing dance adventure—and a great class for those seeking to shake off the rust accumulated during the pandemic.  The basic six-count footwork (quick-quick, slow, slow) is used in many popular dances derived from Lindy Hop (including East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Boogie Woogie and Jive), but the elastic partner connection and the rhythmic pulse makes Lindy Hop unique.  You will learn essential footwork, including the rock step and triple-step, as well as inside and outside turns for both leaders and followers.  ​

Solo Skills for Lindy Hop - Tuesdays, Sept. 13 - Oct. 4

 

 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.  Learn the fundamental rhythm (quick-quick, slow, quick-quick, slow) that underlies the classic 8-count Lindy Hop, and focus on essential footwork skills such as the triple-step and rock step…as well as creative substitutions and variations which will blow your mind and ensure your versatility.  This class is suitable for beginners, for experienced dancers looking to expand their repertoire, and for dancers interested in learning the basics of “the other role” so they can enjoy dancing as either a leader or a follower!  We will also work on connection concepts such as counter-balance using props such as kerchiefs and elastic bands. 

   

​