Shaggin' on the Cooper Summer Series — Photo courtesy of Micheline Callicott
Every corner of the U.S. has its own beloved local's dance, be it square dancing in the West or Jazz styles of the New Orleans area. South Carolina's state dance, the Shag, originated in the dance halls of nearby Myrtle Beach during the 1930s, and quickly became popular across all social and racial bounds of the time. The Shag developed as an easy going swing dance adapted to the more laid back tempo of coastal Carolina rhythm and blues beach music. In Charleston, the Shag is taught from an early age in many area homes and schools, and continues to be popular today.
Shaggin' on the Cooper Summer Series — Photo courtesy of Gary Coleman
Join the fun by learning as you go alongside local Charlestonians! Charleston County Parks and Recreation hosts a summer event series called Shaggin' on the Cooper that is open to dancers of all ages and experience levels. This oceanfront event is held at Mount Pleasant Pier, just 5-10 minutes from downtown Charleston. Admission is just $10 in advance online or until tickets sell out at the gate, and the series goes all summer long from late April to early September. Gates open at 7 pm and the music starts at 8, so come early to enjoy food and beverages available for purchase on site! See the Shaggin' on the Cooper event series website or call (843) 795 - 4386 for more information.
Shaggin' on the Cooper Summer Series — Photo courtesy of Gary Coleman
If you're visiting the Charleston area during the summer, be sure to check out the Charleston Beach Music and Shag Festival, held annually in late August. Enjoy couples Shag dancing to the beach music tunes of different local bands each hour! Hosted by the Beach Music and Shag Preservation Society, the festival's admission is just $25 a day or $45 for both days, and is open to dancers of all skill levels. Need to brush up on your steps or just want Shag lessons before the festival? Locate the nearest upcoming Charleston Shag Club Social, or take advantage of guest Shag lessons offered by BMSPSSC for $50 - just call (843) 814 - 0101 or visit their website for more information.
