Building a substance-free, off-screen space for partner Swing and Carolina Shag dance in the Tri-Cities / Greater Richmond area.
Hey everyone,
Like a lot of folks, I’ve been thinking a lot about how hard it’s become to find genuine "Third Places"—those spaces outside of home and work where you can just show up, move around, learn something real, and talk to people without spending a fortune or shouting over loud bar music.
For the past few years, my wife and I have been building a local community around swing and Carolina Shag dancing (specifically under Underhill’s Swing & Shag Dance Collective in Colonial Heights/Powhatan).
We’ve noticed something really interesting lately: it’s turning into a sanctuary for people who are just plain exhausted by screens, digital noise, and the typical nightlife scene.
A few quick things about how we run it:
- No partner required: We rotate partners continuously during class so everyone gets to dance and learn the mechanics together.
- Zero retro gimmick: No costumes or vintage showmanship—just smooth, modern social styling set to great Philadelphia Soul, Beach Music, R&B, and modern Funk.
- Substance-free & grounded: No alcohol, no pressure, no high-intensity fitness routine—just a clear-headed space focused on physical timing, balance, and quiet conversation during practice breaks.
- Open to all ages: We have a strong core group of active older adults (55+), but we’re seeing more and more folks in their 30s and 40s dropping in looking for an off-screen outlet to clear their heads.
- No Mandatory Fee / Tip-Based: We don't believe financial status should keep people from learning to dance or finding a good community. We operate on a voluntary tip/donation basis to help cover venue overhead. Show up, learn, and contribute if or when you are able.
Whether you've taken classes before or have two left feet, we break down the footwork step-by-step from scratch.
We’re kicking off our next 5-week series of beginner/intermediate classes soon at the Colonial Heights Optimist Building in Colonial Heights and the Powhatan War Memorial and Cultural Arts Community Building on the week of September 28th!
If you’ve been looking for an off-screen routine or just want to try something different that doesn't involve staring at a screen or buying drinks, we’d love to have you out on the floor.
Happy to answer any questions about the footwork, the music, or what to expect if you walk in solo. Also curious—what other off-screen, non-bar gathering spots in the area have you all found success with lately?