what is the horizontal charleston

2 min read 26-12-2024

The Charleston is a lively, iconic dance that originated in the 1920s. While the original Charleston is known for its energetic, bouncy steps, a variation called the Horizontal Charleston offers a unique and equally captivating style. This article will explore the characteristics, history, and variations of the Horizontal Charleston, explaining its differences from the traditional version and highlighting its enduring appeal.

Understanding the Traditional Charleston

Before delving into the Horizontal Charleston, it's helpful to understand its predecessor. The original Charleston is a fast-paced, energetic dance characterized by its quick, rhythmic footwork and knee bends. It's a highly improvisational dance, allowing dancers to express themselves creatively through their movements. The upbeat tempo and playful nature of the dance made it incredibly popular during the Jazz Age.

The Emergence of the Horizontal Charleston: A Subtler Approach

The Horizontal Charleston retains some of the spirit of its predecessor, but emphasizes a different kind of energy. Instead of the bouncy, up-and-down motion of the traditional Charleston, the Horizontal Charleston focuses on a low-to-the-ground, more fluid movement. This creates a sense of sleekness and sophistication that sets it apart.

Key Characteristics of the Horizontal Charleston:

Lower Center of Gravity: The dancer maintains a lower center of gravity throughout the dance, resulting in a smoother, more controlled movement.
Emphasis on Hip and Leg Movement: While the feet still play a crucial role, the Horizontal Charleston emphasizes fluid hip and leg movements. These contribute to the dance's sensual and graceful quality.
Controlled, Fluid Steps: The steps are less bouncy and more controlled than in the traditional Charleston, creating a flowing, continuous motion.
Sophisticated Styling: The Horizontal Charleston often incorporates more intricate arm and hand movements, adding to its elegance and complexity.

How the Horizontal Charleston Differs from the Traditional Style: A Comparison

Feature	Traditional Charleston	Horizontal Charleston
Energy	Bouncy, high-energy	Smooth, controlled, low-to-the-ground
Footwork	Quick, sharp steps	Fluid, controlled steps
Body Movement	Primarily leg and knee movements	Emphasis on hip and leg movements
Overall Feel	Playful, energetic	Sophisticated, sensual

Learning the Horizontal Charleston: Resources and Tips

Numerous online resources are available for learning the Horizontal Charleston. YouTube tutorials and dance classes (both in-person and online) offer step-by-step instructions and guidance. Remember to:

Start Slowly: Focus on mastering the basic steps before attempting more complex variations.
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key to improving your technique and fluidity.
Find a Teacher: A qualified instructor can provide personalized feedback and help you refine your technique.

The Enduring Appeal of the Horizontal Charleston

Despite its variations from the traditional style, the Horizontal Charleston retains the essence of the original's charm. Its sleek movements, sophisticated styling, and rhythmic energy make it a captivating dance form. Whether you prefer the energetic bounce of the traditional Charleston or the fluid grace of the Horizontal Charleston, both styles offer a unique and engaging way to experience this iconic dance. The Horizontal Charleston offers dancers a chance to explore a subtler, more nuanced side of this timeless dance, proving that the Charleston continues to evolve and captivate audiences.