Jive Dance FAQs

This page answers frequently asked questions about JivePlay and related dance topics. If you have additional queries not answered here, please contact us
Modern Jive
What is Modern Jive?

Modern Jive is an irresistible partner dance based on a fusion of other dance styles including Salsa, Ballroom Jive, West Coast Swing. It is easy to learn, sociable, great value and can be enjoyed to a wide range of music.

What is a typical evening like?

A typical class night includes a Beginners Class, suitable for all levels from absolute beginners, and an Intermediate Class. An additional Beginners Consolidation Class runs at the same time as the Intermediate Class and is designed to help less experienced dancers master the earlier routine and improve technique. There is plenty of time to put your learning into practice in freestyle.

How long does it take to learn?

Everybody learns at a different pace so this is down to each individual. However, Modern Jive is known for its simple footwork and is easy to learn. Generally it takes 8-10 classes to master beginners moves before learning additional improver moves. To advance more quickly, Workshops help develop your dancing, covering core technique and 4-6 weeks of weekly class material.

What are the benefits of dancing?

Being a social dance, its a great way to make friends, keep fit & have fun. Dancing is a great way to keep your body and mind sharp and healthy without feeling like your exercising. A class night cost less than the price of a cinema ticket and you get to learn a new skill that will last a lifetime!

How does it compare to other dances like salsa?

Modern Jive is danced to every two beats (1 count) and can be danced to a wider range of music with more varied tempos. Salsa is mainly more Latin music. Rock n roll is high energy tempo. Lindy-hop varies from medium to high tempo swing music.  Blues is danced to generally slower blues music. The beauty of modern jive is it can be dance to wide variety of music and styled to fit the music.

Why is Modern Jive a very popular dance?

It’s easy to learn, widely available, very sociable, applicable to all age groups and can be danced to a wide range of music. You could easily go clubbing, where tracks have a strong beat and dance Modern Jive. There are also many different independent clubs in the UK, making it widely accessible.

Are there different types of Modern Jive?

There are several including Smooth, Circular, Slotted. The original style was more of a circular dance. The modern version adopts a more slotted, smooth West Coast style.

Do I need to join a beginners course?

No, you can dip in and out, but attending regular classes and a few workshops helps develop your dancing quickly & builds confidence to join in on the social dance floor.

Modern Jive Classes
Who teaches the classes?
Classes are taught by a range of qualified and experienced teachers. Trained crew are on hand to give individual guidance and are supported by a qualified teacher.
What classes are available?

At Davison’s School, Worthing on Tuesday evenings we offer a Modern Jive Beginners Class in the Main Hall, followed by a Modern Jive Intermediate Class in the Main Hall, and a separate Beginners Consolidation Class in the diner.

Do I need a partner?

No. All our classes work in rotation so everyone gets to dance with each person in the room. Modern Jive is a social dance by its very nature and learning is helped by rotating partners within a mixed ability range. You can attend with a partner, in a group, or on your own. On your first evening, a crew member will guide you through your first lesson.

Do I need to be a member?

Membership is optional, but provides various benefits such as cheaper class prices.  You can sign up for just £1 on your first visit.

Do I need to book the classes?

No, class nights are pay as you go, just turn up at the door where you will receive a warm welcome.

How much does it cost?

Tuesday Class Nights
Classes and Freestyle – £7 (Members)
Classes and Freestyle – £8 (Non Members)
Freestyle Only – £5

I’m brand new, what can I expect?

You can expect a warm welcome from our experienced crew who are there to guide and support your learning. Classes taught to a high standard with plenty of time to learn, socialise and practice.

What do I need to bring and wear?

We recommend to wear comfortable clothing that is not restrictive so you are able to move freely. Your body temperature can vary throughout the evening so if you wear layers you can adjust accordingly. Some people come casual whereas others like to dress up and make it a full evening out – the choice is yours. We ask people to please avoid wearing jewellery and clothes that may become tangled as you dance.

Is there a beginners course?

There is no course to join as such, and attendance does not have to be consecutive, although it is recommended. Attending a workshop allow you to progress your dancing faster.

What type of shoes should I wear?

Proper dance shoes are recommended and can be purchased online or via specialist shops. However, when you are first discovering dancing, you may wish to wear your own shoes while you decide if its for you. This is fine. Avoid trainers or shoes with a rubber sole – these will prevent you from spinning or moving freely. We also ask dancers to avoid stiletto heels, they can hinder your balance and be a weapon on the dance floor.

Where can I buy dance shoes?

The nearest local dance shop is Felix DanceWear in Littlehampton (Visit their website)

If you are willing to wait, a cheaper bespoke option ordering abroad from Terrier Playnet Shop (Visit their website)

Another cost effective option is adding suede soles to your existing shoes.

Learn more about dance classes
Dance Workshops
What workshops are available?

Beginners Modern Jive – Cover core technique all the beginners moves.

Improvers Modern Jive – Covers additional technique, variations on beginners moves + new improver moves.

Specialist – Advanced Jive, Jango (Jive/Tango mix), Dips & Drops, Blues, Styling & Musicality.

What do I get out of a workshop?

It allows you to develop your progress more quickly, covering between 4-6 classes worth of material.

Beginners workshops cover basic technique and core moves.

Improvers workshops build on the beginners workshop with additional technique, variations of beginners moves & new improver moves.

Specialist workshops broaden your dance experience.

What do workshops cost?

Full details on workshops page

When & where are they held?

Workshops are held at Goring Conservative Club in Worthing. The workshops page provides the latest information.

How do I book?

Bookings for workshops can be made in person at our Class Nights, via the Workshops page, or contacting us.

Do I need a workshop partner?

No, it’s not a requirement. Couples are welcome to book. We strive to gender balance the event so everyone gets plenty of attention.

How many people can attend a workshop?

Currently a maximum of 10 couples to ensure everyone receive adequate attention. 2-4 crew will also be on hand to help.

Dance Venues & Events
Where are evening classes held?

Tuesday Class Nights are held at Davison’s School, Worthing, a venue perfectly suited for social dancing.

What facilities are at the venue?

Davison’s Worthing hosts a large wooden dance floor in its main hall. BYO drinks or refreshments are available.

Goring Conservative Club hosts a function room with dance floor and seating area and has its own reduced price bar, plus free water available.

Is there parking available?

Davison’s has two car parks available and Goring Conservative Club (on street parking)

Are we insured to run dance classes & events?

We have full public liability and Employers insurance and PPL music licence.

What dance events do you host?

JivePlay provides Class Nights, Workshops and Freestyle dances. This includes guest teachers on class nights every month

When are events held?

JivePlay Class Nights are weekly, Workshops and Saturday dances are periodic.  Friday night dances are held monthly.

See events page for detailed information

What is a freestyle event?

A freestyle event is an evening of just dancing (no lessons) usually held on a Friday or Saturday, from 8 til late.