The Swing Era

The Swing Era — Dance Classes In Birmingham

The Swing Era is a dance school in Birmingham dedicated to swing dancing, led by teachers Martyn and Suzanne. It caters to adults who want a fun, sociable way to get moving, whether that is a one-off curiosity or the start of a lasting hobby. First-timers are a big part of who it is for.

About The Swing Era

Reviewers repeatedly mention how welcome they were made to feel from the moment they arrived, and how easy it is to chat and settle in. Martyn and Suzanne are described as friendly, supportive and pedagogically sound, creating a relaxed setting that people rate highly against classes elsewhere in the UK.

Classes & Dance Styles

As a specialist among dance classes in Birmingham, the school teaches swing in a way that suits nervous beginners and keeps them progressing. Sessions double as a sociable night out and a genuine skill to develop, which is why some who came for the fitness stayed for the passion. If you are comparing dance lessons, salsa classes, line dancing, adult dance classes or ballet classes in Birmingham, swing here offers a distinctive and welcoming alternative.

What to Expect on Your First Visit

Expect a warm greeting, a bit of conversation and a class that assumes no prior experience whatsoever. Comfortable clothes and shoes that let you pivot are all you need, plus a readiness to laugh at yourself a little.

Location & Contact

The school runs in the Birmingham area and is reachable by the city's usual road and transport links; confirm the venue and parking when you get in touch.

• Address: 132 Alcester Rd, Birmingham B13 8EE
• Website: http://theswingera.co.uk/
• Opening hours:
  • Monday: 7-10 pm
  • Wednesday: 8-9 pm
  • Thursday: 6:45-9 pm

What Dancers Say About The Swing Era

5/5 from 32 Google reviews.

Have you always wanted to learn swing dancing, but felt a little nervous about going to your first class? Well, I was exactly the same until I started lessons with The Swing Era!
As soon as I arrived I was made to feel incredibly welcome, and within minutes I was chatting away with my fellow beginners and The Swing Era team.
Along with being superb teachers, Martyn and Suzanne are full of amazing energy and enthusiasm. You’ll learn all kinds of great swing dance moves, meet a community of ace people, and have lots of cool social events to choose from too.
I'm by no means a natural dancer, but — Johnny Cullen

Taking up swing dance classes with The Swing Era was the best decision I made in 2017. What started out as a fun way to get fit has since developed into a passion which I have every reason to believe will last for years.

Martyn and Suzanne are friendly, supportive, encouraging and a great team!

They are also great at working with people of all levels and experience, whilst always paying attention to the individual needs of each and every person. What I really enjoy about The Swing Era classes is that each lesson is really well structured, thought through and designed to continually improve y— Tanya-Louse Rose

This is the friendliest, most welcoming, and most pedagogically sound Swing dancing class you will find. I have been to other classes, not just in Birmingham, but all over the UK, and I can tell you The Swing Era is unbeatable. They create a relaxed environment in which it is easy to learn with confidence. Martyn, Suzanne, and the team are not only excellent dancers, but excellent teachers too (which for beginners can be more important). Their teaching is so clear, kind, and patient. Classes are good value for money, great cardio, and very sociable. The Swing Era runs classes, workshops, socia— Thomasin Bailey

I found out about the Swing Era thanks to a friend that invited me to a drop-in session. I will never be thankful enough for that day! I have not danced before and have always been reluctant about it. Yet, since I started the courses, I have learnt a lot and I am truly enjoying it. Martyn, Suzanne and the other teachers put great effort into helping you with any difficulty you may find during the classes, which are very well structured. Breaking down steps and moves is so helpful especially at the beginning!

What I find so special though is that the Swing Era is also a community, lively and w— Elisa Lauricella

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is it to learn salsa?

Salsa is quite approachable once you get the timing, and a structured beginners' class helps most people find the basics fairly quickly, though swing is this school's speciality.

Can a non-dancer learn salsa?

Yes. Complete beginners regularly take up salsa and other partner dances starting from scratch.

Is it possible to learn ballet as an adult?

It is, although this school focuses on swing; ballet would mean seeking out a dedicated provider.

What age is too late to start ballet?

No age is too late to begin ballet, as classes can be adapted for older newcomers.

What are 5 basic steps in line dancing?

Line dancing often uses the grapevine, step-touch, kick-ball-change, pivot turn and shuffle, though swing is a separate style with its own basics.

What is the easiest line dance to learn for beginners?

Beginner line dances usually repeat grapevines and step-touches; for swing, the teachers start you on the simplest basic move first.

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