Rhythm & Swing is a fun, energetic group of dancers inspired by traditional and current forms of swing dance and music. From spotlight performances to full programs, our shows are jam-packed with fast-paced footwork and spectacular aerials that exemplify the fascinating history of this original American dance form.
In the 1920s jazz music flourished in Harlem’s ballrooms, attracting talented, creative dancers to develop their craft. It was there that the Lindy Hop – the original swing dance – evolved out of the Charleston, laying the foundation for the new dance style whose popularity would span decades of changing music styles. From the early jazz era to the big band sounds of WWII, to jump blues, early rock 'n' roll and today's hot jiving sounds, swing dance is a perennial hit!
Based in the Twin Cities, Rhythm & Swing has been featured at local and regional events such as the Minnesota State Fair, the Uptown Art Fair, Commemorative Air Force Hangar Dances, and at many schools, festivals, senior centers and corporate parties.
It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that Rhythm & Swing!
Our Director
Cindy Gardner
CINDY has been teaching Swing Dance forever, specializing in Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Charleston and Aerials. Trained in ballet, jazz and ballroom dance, she’s passionate about Lindy Hop because it’s so fun, creative and playful. She loves working with dancers of all ages and abilities, and works extensively with local and regional colleges and high schools.
In 1995, Cindy founded Rhythm & Swing to present and promote this amazing, original American dance style through showcase performances and programs for the general public. In addition to her dynamic choreographic work for Rhythm & Swing, she has been commissioned to create works for Macalester College's 1940s Radio Hour and Faribault Community Theater's The Wizard of Oz, among others.
Assistant Director
Ted Hefty
TED is our most veteran member of Rhythm & Swing and our fearless assistant director. His understanding of partnered movement is unparalleled and his ability to teach this movement is exemplary. No aerial frightens Ted. Okay, maybe a few, but he’s willing to try just about anything. Ted has a passion for choreography, teaching and trying out new moves. Ted ALWAYS gives “100 and Ted percent!”
ALYSSA knows for a fact that anybody can dance, because when she first started in 2010, she couldn't hop, bop...or stop! As one of the newest members of Rhythm & Swing, she'll be the first to encourage beginners to give it a shot. When she's not cutting a rug, Alyssa boogies her way through local art festivals and keeps up her fluency in French! Enchantée!
BRIANNA fell in love with dance at the age of four and since then she has danced in various styles such as Jazz, Modern, and Hip Hop. She discovered her love of swing after seeing Rhythm & Swing perform at the state fair in 2013, and learned as much as she could to join the group. When she’s not dancing, Brianna can be found playing board games with friends, or lounging with her two dogs and her husband.
STACEY was dragged to a swing club in college and unexpectedly found one of her greatest joys. She embraces her quirky creativity on and off the dance floor and is energized by connecting with an audience as much as with her social dance partners. Stacey will happily pop-over anyone, loves a good mess around, and can't resist a good pun.
STEPHANIE is a chick who thinks outside the bawks. She likes to horse around in the garden and she’s always up for a game of Truth or Dairy. On the dance floor she is poultry in motion, and some of her favorite dance tunes are Blue Legume and Acrey Bakery Hearth. Pluck up your courage and ask her to dance – a flight with this chick is something to crow about!
RACHEL lights up when her feet hit the dance floor. Whether social dancing, performing, or teaching, her passion is undeniable. When she was six, Rachel began traditional Israeli dance, which she pursued for fifteen years before expanding into tap, jazz, and ballet. She jumps at the chance to conquer tricky footwork, and is patiently awaiting her original “Apple Jack/Floss” step to make it into a R&S routine.
ALEX first started his Rhythm & Swing journey by going to performances to support his wife Brianna, who was on the team. Fast forward a few years and some lessons, and now they share the stage together! When Alex isn’t mastering a routine or learning a new trick, you can find him going for a run or playing a new board game.
ERIK is one of the youngest members in the group, but complains about being like a rickety old man. That doesn't keep him from swinging on the dance floor, either performing or social dancing! Erik enjoys a good groovy song, occasionally sports a glorious beard and has a deep laugh that echoes through the studio.
HENRY discovered swing on a stormy night in Minnesota, and has never looked back. Since then he has dabbled in other ballroom dances but always seems to come back to Lindy Hop. Henry is always willing to dance with everyone he meets, and will sing along to the Stray Cat Strut.
MIKE is unflappable – always cool, calm and composed. He enjoys martinis shaken (not stirred), aerials, steals and powdered sugar donuts. He’s also the reason that we have an ants in the Rhythm & Swing clubhouse.
TREVOR tagged along to a lesson and social dance with a friend and within three months, he was auditioning for Rhythm & Swing. Loaded with lots of natural ability, he enjoys playing sports and staying active year round, getting most of his exercise on the dance floor. Always upbeat and on the move, not even his German Shorthair can match his energetic spirit!