DC Hand Dance Club

- 1506 Defense Hwy, Gambrills, MD 21054

For decades, the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area has been home to a unique and culturally significant art form: D.C. Hand Dance, often referred to as D.C. Swing. Maryland residents looking to master this smooth, sophisticated style of partner dancing need look no further than the DC Hand Dance Club. While the name pays homage to the dance's birthplace, the club is a central pillar of the social dance scene right here in Maryland, offering a dedicated space for enthusiasts to learn, practice, and celebrate this American art form. The club was officially formed in 1994 with the explicit mission to teach and preserve this unique style of dance, which originated in the region in the mid-1950s.

DC Hand Dance evolved from the earlier Lindy Hop and Jitterbug, developing into a distinct style characterized by gliding, rhythmic footwork and continuous, intricate hand communication between partners, typically performed to slow to moderate tempo music, including Motown classics and contemporary sounds. Recognised by the Smithsonian Institution in 1993 and later formally designated as the official dance of the District of Columbia, this dance holds a special place in the history and culture of the region. The DC Hand Dance Club serves as the vital hub that keeps this tradition alive and thriving, welcoming dancers of all skill levels to join its community in Gambrills.

The DC Hand Dance Club hosts its main events at a conveniently located venue in Gambrills, Maryland. The specific address for their regular Saturday night dance events is 1506 Defense Hwy, Gambrills, MD 21054,USA. This location places the club within Anne Arundel County, making it easily accessible for members and guests traveling from Annapolis, Columbia, Baltimore, and the close-by areas of the District of Columbia. The accessibility of the location is a key benefit for Maryland locals, providing a central spot for a wide range of social dancers.

To ensure a comfortable and welcoming experience for everyone in the community, the club's host venue is equipped with practical amenities and accessibility features. Specifically, the location includes a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This thoughtful provision ensures that all members of the community, regardless of mobility requirements, can attend the dances and events without unnecessary logistical difficulty. Furthermore, the venue offers a restroom, ensuring the comfort of dancers and guests throughout the evening's events. Being situated along Defense Highway makes it a straightforward drive for many Marylanders, solidifying its role as a regional social and cultural anchor.

The DC Hand Dance Club operates as a non-profit organization, focused on sustaining its programs and preserving the Hand Dance tradition rather than purely commercial gain. This commitment translates into a variety of valuable services for its members and the broader community.

Services Offered by the DC Hand Dance Club typically include:

• Weekly and Monthly Social Dances: Regular dance events where DJs play a curated mix of music suitable for Hand Dance, along with other popular partner dance styles like Shag, Swing, Hustle, Bop, and Nightclub Two-Step.
• Beginner and Intermediate Dance Lessons: Structured instruction is frequently offered before or during dance nights, focusing on the fundamental steps, techniques, and partner communication unique to DC Hand Dance.
• Special Dance Events: The club hosts special annual gatherings and themed parties, such as New Year's Eve Galas, providing members with extended opportunities for social dancing and celebration.
• Membership Benefits: Members receive discounted entry fees for monthly dances and special events, and gain access to a 'Members Only' section of the club’s website, which includes financial information, meeting minutes, and other organizational details.
• Preservation and Education: The club actively works to educate the public and new dancers about the history, culture, and technique of D.C. Hand Dance, fulfilling its mission to preserve the art form.

The club is defined by its deep commitment to a specific dance style, its dedication to community, and its non-profit status. These elements combine to create a truly unique and valuable institution for Maryland dancers.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Preservation of D.C. Hand Dance: The club is a primary organization dedicated to teaching and preserving the integrity of this smooth, regional swing style, which is officially recognized as the dance of the nation's capital.
• Non-Profit Status: Operating as a non-profit organization, the club prioritizes its mission to promote dance over maximizing profits, often translating to minimal costs for members and transparent operations.
• Wide Dance Variety: While specializing in Hand Dance, the club's DJs expertly mix music that accommodates a variety of other social dances—including Cha-Cha, Hustle, and Line Dances—ensuring a diverse and engaging evening for all.
• Community and Social Focus: The club provides a welcoming, family-oriented environment that fosters strong social connections among dancers, with many describing it as a friendly and supportive community.
• Accessibility Features: The venue offers a wheelchair accessible parking lot and clean restroom facilities, making attendance easier for a wide range of individuals.
• Experienced Instructors and DJs: The club utilizes qualified instructors for lessons and experienced DJs who understand the musicality required for proper Hand Dance and other partner styles.

For Maryland residents seeking to connect with this vibrant social dance community, here is the essential contact information for the DC Hand Dance Club.

Contact Information:

• Address: 1506 Defense Hwy, Gambrills, MD 21054,USA (Venue for regular dances)
• Phone: Contact is typically managed via email for club matters, with specific phone numbers reserved for event hosts or instructors, which are usually shared within the member network.

Choosing the DC Hand Dance Club is a decision to embrace a piece of local culture while becoming part of an active, enthusiastic community. It is worth choosing for several compelling reasons. Unlike generic dance studios, this club provides an authentic connection to a regionally significant dance style that is rooted in the history of the DMV area. By attending, you are not just learning steps; you are actively participating in the preservation of an American art form.

The non-profit structure means the focus is purely on the quality of the dance experience and the sustained health of the community. For a modest membership fee, you gain access to discounted entry to frequent, high-quality social dances and special events, creating a consistent and affordable hobby. Furthermore, the club’s commitment to providing introductory lessons at many events ensures that beginners in Maryland feel welcomed and supported as they take their first steps into the world of DC Hand Dance. The friendly, social atmosphere and the opportunity to dance with a variety of partners make it an excellent choice for improving your skills and expanding your social circle in the Gambrills and greater Maryland region.

DC Hand Dance Club

1506 Defense Hwy, Gambrills, MD 21054, USA