From February 29th to March 3rd, 2024, the vibrant city of Valencia hosted the “Move Your Bottom” festival, an event that brought together swing lovers from all over the world in an atmosphere filled with joy, music, and dance. For four days, we experienced an unforgettable adventure, learning from the best instructors, dancing to incredible live bands, and connecting with a community united by a passion for swing. Here, I share my logbook of this event, filled with moments that will remain in our memories.
Day 1: A Warm Welcome to the World of Swing
The festival kicked off on February 29th, a special day that marked the beginning of this incredible journey. Valencia, with its pleasant climate and charming architecture, was the perfect setting to welcome dancers from all over. The opening ceremony took place at the Black Bottom dance school, a space that buzzed with energy and enthusiasm from the very first moment.
The Instructors: Inspiring Guides
This year, the festival featured some of the best swing instructors worldwide, each bringing their unique style and experience:
• Briana Ashley Stuart: With her overwhelming energy, she taught us to feel every note and express the music with our bodies.
• Nils & Bianca: Famous for their elegance and impeccable technique, their classes were a journey toward perfection in dance.
• Jean Philippe & Margaux: This couple amazed us with their incredible chemistry and the way they conveyed the essence of Lindy Hop.
• Marie & Tyedric: With their vibrant energy, they inspired us to explore new ways of moving to the rhythm of swing
• Kelly Isaac: A true jazz master, he showed us how to deeply connect with the music.
Day 2: Valencia Dresses Up in Swing
On March 1st, the workshops came to life at Black Bottom, a modern and alternative space that perfectly matched the festival’s dynamic atmosphere. The variety of levels offered in the workshops ensured that every dancer found the perfect place to learn and grow:
Lindy Hop Workshop Levels
• Shiny Stockings (Beginner Level)
Ideal for those taking their first steps in Lindy Hop. At this level, participants learned the basics of the dance, focusing on connection and essential movements. The instructors made sure everyone felt comfortable and motivated to continue learning.
• Splanky (Intermediate Level)
Aimed at dancers with a solid foundation, this level offered more advanced techniques and variations of the basic steps. Participants worked on musicality and improvisation, beginning to explore their own style within Lindy Hop.
• Crazy Rhythm (Advanced Level)
This level was designed for those with considerable experience in Lindy Hop. The workshops focused on complex movements, aerials, and a deep exploration of the connection between partners and music. Here, dancers took their skills to the next level.
Solo Jazz and TAP / Soft Shoes: Developing Creativity
In addition to Lindy Hop, the festival offered Solo Jazz and TAP / Soft Shoes workshops at Open Level, open to all participants regardless of previous experience:
• Solo Jazz (Open Level)
In this workshop, dancers explored the freedom of individual movement. We learned to interpret music in a personal way and incorporate elements of improvisation and styling into our routines. It was a liberating experience that allowed us to express the music uniquely.
• TAP / Soft Shoes (Open Level)
This workshop was an incredible opportunity for those interested in adding tap rhythms to their dance repertoire. Led by Kelly Isaac, participants learned to use their feet as percussion instruments, creating sounds and rhythms that complemented swing music.
Day 3: Perfection and Mastery
March 2nd was a day dedicated to perfecting our skills. The workshops continued at Black Bottom, where the instructors guided us through more complex and challenging techniques. Here, we were encouraged to step out of our comfort zone and explore new possibilities in our dancing.
In the night, we moved to the Palau de la Música, one of Valencia’s most iconic venues, where we witnessed an incredible performance by Enric Peidro 4 in Orbit. This band, with its sophisticated and energetic sound, took us on a musical journey that perfectly complemented the festival’s atmosphere. Enric Peidro’s saxophone was the star of an unforgettable night, where every note seemed perfectly in tune with the spirit of swing.
Day 4: A Stylish Farewell
On March 3rd, the festival came to an end, but not without giving us one last dose of inspiration. The day began with a master class at Black Bottom, known for its intimate and alternative vibe. Here, the instructors bid farewell with one last session full of practical advice and, above all, an energy that left us wanting more.
Pricing and Accessibility
The festival offered a variety of passes to suit all tastes and budgets:
• Full Pass: Included access to all workshops, parties, and concerts. The price was €200 if purchased in advance, and €250 if bought closer to the date.
• Party Pass: Ideal for those who only wanted to enjoy the parties and concerts. It cost €120.
• Beginner Pass: Designed for those just starting out in the world of swing, this pass included specific workshops and access to the parties. It was priced at €150.
Conclusion: A Festival That Touched the Swinging Soul
“Move Your Bottom” was not just a festival; it was a true celebration of the swing spirit. For four days, Valencia was filled with music, dance, and joy, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Every corner of the city vibrated with the energy of swing, and every dance step was an expression of pure happiness.
We leave Valencia with hearts overflowing with gratitude, knowing that this festival was proof that swing is much more than just a dance: it is a way of life, a global community, and an endless source of joy. Until the next edition, where we will surely return to move our hearts to the rhythm of swing!
