Welcome TO ISLAND SWING DANCE WEEKEND
Join us for the Island Swing Dance Weekend on April 27-28 in Malta! A mini festival for Lindy Hop lovers - lessons and workshops by day and unforgettable dance nights at unique locations in Malta. Let's swing the rock!
VENUES
SATURDAY - APRIL 27
SATURDAY - APRIL 27
SATURDAY - APRIL 27
ORPHEUM THEATRE - Step into history and immerse yourself in the elegance of the Orpheum Theatre. Originally constructed as a cinema in the early 1930s, this theatre has since been transformed into a cultural hub, hosting several world-renowned performers. Join us on April 27th for a day filled with classes and an evening party.
Address: Triq Sir Patrick Stuart, Il-Gżira, Malta.
SUNDAY - APRIL 28
SATURDAY - APRIL 27
SATURDAY - APRIL 27
IVY HOUSE - A retro-inspired venue nestled in the heart of Malta. With its nostalgic ambiance and versatile spaces, Ivy House sets the perfect stage for the Lindy Hop Festival. Join us on April 28th for Lindy Hop classes and get ready to dance the day away in this unique and vintage-inspired venue!
Address: Triq Tunis, Pembroke, Malta.
FESTIVAL PASSES
The price of the pass is in the title. (€Early-bird /€Late-bird). Early-bird prices are until the end of March!
Beginner Lindy Hop Full Pass
€50 /€70
Choose this pass if you have been dancing regularly for 6 to 12 moths and have an understanding of the basics movements of Lindy Hop. This pass includes access to classes, taster classes and evening socials.
Beginner-Intermediate Lindy Hop Full Pass
€50 /€70
Choose this pass if you have been dancing regularly for about 2 years. You are able to do a swing out and you would like to improve your technique and add some variations. This pass includes access to classes, taster classes and evening socials.
Party Pass
€30 /€40
This pass includes access to taster classes and social evenings.
DANCE WEEKEND TEACHERS
Chris Harms
Hailing from Germany, Chris Harms has been immersed in the world of dance since his teenage years. His journey began with ballroom dancing in 1983, quickly transitioning to teaching by 1988 and competing internationally by 1991.
In 2013, while in Ireland, Chris discovered swing dancing, leading him to compete and even judge local dance competitions. In 2018, he co-founded Malta Swing Dance, solidifying his commitment to spreading the joy of swing dancing.
With a hands-on teaching approach, Chris prioritises leader improvements to enhance follower experiences.
Denitsa Yordanova
Deni's dance journey began with ballroom and jive, but it was Lindy Hop that truly stole her heart during her university days in Sheffield. Drawn by the infectious rhythms and melodies that define swing music, Deni immersed herself in the art of Lindy Hop, quickly mastering its intricate steps and dynamic movements. Alongside, her proficiency in Charleston, another hallmark of the swing era, further enriched her dance repertoire.
In 2018, she and Chris Harmes co-founded Malta Swing Dance, extending their dedication to spreading dance.
Joanne Barnes
Jo's journey into movement began with gymnastics at 6, developing a love for spinning and acrobatics. Discovering Lindy Hop in Manchester, she fell for its expressiveness, branching into Blues and dynamic partner dances like Collegiate Shag and Balboa. Since 2018, Jo has been instrumental in fostering growth within these dance communities, co-founding various organisations in the North West of the UK. As a teacher, Jo blends circus creativity, playfulness and jazz rhythms, with a focus on empowering dancers through follow voice early in their journey. Jo's dedication to enriching the dance scene has left an indelible mark, making her a beloved figure among dancers in the region.
William Hicklin
William's dance journey began with the infectious rhythms of rock and roll, dancing alongside his grandparents during jive sessions that sparked a lifelong passion for movement. Upon settling in Bristol, he discovered Swing dancing, captivated by its playful fluidity and dynamic roles.
What sets William apart is his dedication to mastering both leading and following roles, showcasing his versatility on the dance floor. His dance repertoire is diverse, including styles like Balboa and West African dance. Yet, it's West African dance that profoundly influences his style, infusing his movement with fluidity and rhythm. Alongside his exploration of traditional forms, William embraces modern evolutions like Funk and Hip Hop, enriching his dance journey with a dynamic fusion of styles.
THE BANDS
Strictly Commercial (27 Apr party)
Strictly Commercial (27 Apr party)
Strictly Commercial (27 Apr party)
Specializing in the timeless tunes of the '50s and '60s, this band embodies the essence of pure rock 'n' roll that intertwines with the rhythm of swing!
They'll have Lindy Hoppers of all skill levels swinging, swaying, and tapping their toes to the irresistible beat during a special show of swinging roots rock ’n’ roll and rhythm ’n’ blues. Whether you're a seasoned Lindy expert or a curious newcomer, their tunes are sure to set your soul on fire and your feet in motion.
Swing Nuages (28 Apr party)
Strictly Commercial (27 Apr party)
Strictly Commercial (27 Apr party)
Swing Nuages is a fun-loving swing and jazz manouche band ensemble born from spirited summer jam sessions back in 2014. Their music is a blend of upbeat, retro tunes inspired by the swinging style of jazz. With Angela Vella Zarb on vocals, Karl Galea and Joshua Bray on guitars, and Diccon Cooper on double bass, horns and percussion, Swing Nuages promises an evening filled with toe-tapping rhythms and unforgettable melodies.