Wednesday Night Swing
Events at the Laurel are returning! Follow us here, on our FB page, and in our newsletter.
KSDA Dances are Returning
In the meantime, please review the CDC’s recommendations to help prevent the spread of germs and viruses.
Learn to Swing Dance
Join us each Wednesday at the Laurel Theater, in the heart of Knoxville Tennessee! We have a beginner drop-in lesson every week. We also offer intermediate lessons in Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa, and Solo Jazz - traditional vernacular jazz dances of the 1920s to 1950s.
After lessons, we open the floor for a fun social dance with the best swing DJs in town. No partner is required! Its family-friendly and welcoming to all abilities and ages – come and meet some new friends!
When
Every Wednesday Night!
7:30 - 8:00 pm Beginner lesson
8:00 - 9:30 pm Social dancing
Intermediate classes have not yet resumed.
Where
Laurel Theater
1538 Laurel Ave
Knoxville, TN, 37916
Price *
| Regular | Cardholders | |
|---|---|---|
| Dance and beginner lesson | $5 | $3 |
| Levels 1 and 2, includes dance | $8 | $6 |
| Month series of Levels 1 and 2, includes dances | $24 | $18 |
* If you or anyone you know legitimately can't afford the price for the dance or classes, we will work it out. We have volunteer opportunities and needs-based scholarships.
Here are a few parking options (shown on the map below)
A – the Laurel parking lot
B – the lot directly adjacent to the Laurel, down the hill on 16th street
C – street parking on surrounding streets
D – Volunteer Hall Parking Garage G15 ($1 per 30 minutes), on White and 16th, about 2 blocks away
If you have to park a distance away and would like for someone to walk you back to your car, just ask a KSDA organizer and we’d be happy to escort you.
So you’re new to swing dancing? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Lindy Hop isn’t just a dance—it’s a community. We’re here to make learning to dance as fun as possible and to provide a space to meet new friends that can last a lifetime.
Our beginner class starts at 7:30. Try and get there around 7:15 so you’re all set to take class.
Wear something comfortable. Jeans and a shirt is a good option. For shoes, again comfortable. Avoid heavy, sticky, high heels, flip-flops, and open-toed shoes… we recommend something like Keds to start. Please do not dance barefoot for your safety.
You do NOT need a partner! In classes, we rotate so everyone gets a chance to try it with multiple partners. You’ll meet some great people, and learn quicker by trying things with more people.
At the dance, anyone can ask anyone else to dance. And anyone can refuse a dance, so don’t feel obligated to dance if you want to watch for your first time.
Bring a water bottle. The Laurel has a water fountain so you can refill it.
Swing, Lindy Hop, and Charleston are on the more athletic side. So deodorant is a good option – cologne and perfume are also good, but in moderation! And you may want to chew gum or bring breath mints.
We do NOT teach aerials and do NOT allow them on the social dance floor.
Read more on our FAQ.