Herding dancers is like herding cats and finding community can be difficult. Originally a practice group, we are a dancer-formed, volunteer-run organization dedicated to strengthening community, promoting education, and progressing inclusive values in Lindy Hop social dancing. We hold regular practice sessions, special dance events, and online watch parties to provide more opportunities to develop new skills, exchange ideas, and motivate people at all levels to put their dance shoes on! We aim to create a space where people can feel comfortable making mistakes and are free to experiment with new ideas.
<aside> đ„ Fun Fact: The term âHepcatâ was used as early as 1938 (that we know of) to designate swing and jazz enthusiasts. The term âHopcatâ was coined by Genny Kunkel in 2022 to denote modern Lindy Hop enthusiasts.
</aside>
Lindy Hopcats was born out of friendship and an intense obsession with dancing. We, Genny and Mona, first met each other at the greater Boston area event, Somerville Porchfest in April 2022 when we first began our dance journeys. Soon afterwards, we developed the âLindy Feverâ, a condition characterized by constant dancing. At this time, Lindy events were just returning to Boston after the COVID-19 lockdown wanted to grow our skills plus make friends within the dance community. Thus, we created a small practice group of friends that has since become the Lindy Hopcats.
At Hopcats, we emphasize community, exchange of ideas, and helping each other along our individual artistic journeys. We host weekly practice sessions which are guided by the content that members of our community want to learn or share. In each session, we provide guided practice time with peer-led instruction and free practice time where folks can play around with their own ideas. Driven to find the best learning method for ourselves, we have a penchant for holding experimental practices (some of which result in games and scavenger hunts đ). In addition to our weekly practice, we hold occasional special events such as: Lindy watch parties, workshops, and Lindy field trips. We also like to bring our energy to events that showcase local musicians and community arts.
<aside> đŠȘ Funner Fact: We really love jamâ the food group and musical, danceable variety. Donât be surprised if we turn up with a jar of dance moves and then encourage you to form hype circles.
</aside>