Recently, a video surfaced showcasing energetic girls and boys dancing together at the Paris Jazz Roots Festival. Their impressive, fast-foot moves caught the attention of many viewers, who were curious about the name of the dance.
The dance they were performing is called the Charleston. This authentic jazz dance battle in Paris featured various jazz moves, including Charleston, soft shoe, black tap bottom, and more.
In the video, most of the jazz dancers showcased the Charleston as they competed. The Charleston, a popular dance form from the 1920s, was famously enjoyed by young women (flappers) and men of that era.
The Charleston involves fast swinging of the legs and large hand movements. This jazz style gained popularity after appearing in the song “The Charleston” by James P. Johnson in the musical “Runnin’ Wild” (1923).
Experts believe the movements of the Charleston originated from Nigeria, Ghana, or Trinidad. In the United States, it existed in Black communities as early as 1913 but gained fame due to “Runnin’ Wild.”
Watching the dancers perform in perfect sync was a delight, showcasing elegance at its best and proving that music is all about joy, love, and harmony. The Charleston can be danced alone, with a partner, or in a group.
The talented individuals at the dance jam clearly enjoyed dancing together. Their passion for dance was evident, and their unique styles served as an inspiration to aspiring dancers everywhere.