We’re so glad you’re here! BLH is your source for a toe tapping good time in the Bend, OR area. Whether you’re a local, just visiting or planning you’re next move, we’ve got you covered! Check out our Lindy Hop classes, social dances, special events and everything in between!
 
 

Our mission

 

Bend Lindy Hop is a nonprofit swing club that hosts weekly classes and dance events. Our mission is to build a safe, fun and friendly swing dance community in Bend and Central Oregon.

We value enthusiasm: we are hungry to learn dance and share our passion with others, bravery: we will humbly receive feedback and explore beyond our comfort zones, and inclusion: we seek to create an environment where all people and personalities feel like they belong.

Ready to join us? Check out our class page for upcoming lessons and get out on the dance floor.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Our Story

Blair and Emily Agan (dance partners + life partners) were at a loss for Lindy Hop when they moved to Bend, Oregon in 2016. Tossing around ideas on how and where to meet fellow dancers they learned quickly that Lindy Hop was unheard of in Central, OR. Not knowing exactly what to do, they were offered an opportunity by a new dance studio (The Space) to teach Lindy Hop and educate “Bendites” about this amazing vintage dance.

Combing the knowledge and experience they had with two other Lindy lovers, Sara Lee Conners and Jaron Ellis, they created Bend Lindy Hop.

Less than two years later the Bend Lindy Hop community has grown to host weekly classes, monthly social dances as well as meetups and other fun social events. They are proud to say their community has seen dancers of all skill levels, ages and walks of life and has provided a safe, fun and friendly environment for all to experience Lindy Hop.

 
 
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What is Lindy Hop?

Originating in Harlem New York, Lindy Hop is the style of social dancing that developed in the 1930’s and 1940’s to jazz music. You can think of Lindy Hop as an umbrella term that encompasses several styles of dance including Lindy, Charleston, Balboa and Collegiate Shag.

CAN ANYONE LEARN TO LINDY HOP?

Lindy Hop is uniquely accessible to most everyone, even if you have no dance experience. Check out our class page for upcoming lessons.

WHO IS FRANKIE MANNING?

Frankie Manning is widely considered the greatest and most influential Lindy Hopper of all-time. Along with being credited for developing a more athletic position within Lindy, he created the first ensemble routine, airstep, and developed many of the partnering dynamics used throughout the dance. He traveled the world from the 1980’s until his passing in 2009, spreading the joy of Lindy Hop through his teachings and stories. He is recognized as the prime mover in Lindy Hop’s worldwide spread during the modern era.

 

Watch Frankie Manning dance in one of the greatest Lindy Hop sequences ever filmed. Whitey's Lindy Hoppers from the 1941 film Hellzapoppin.

Have more questions?

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Geoff

Sara Lee + Jaron

Private Lessons

Do you want to try Lindy Hop before joining our class? Need some choreography for a wedding or just some one-on-one practice? Perfect! We can help. Sign up for private lessons and receive in-depth instruction for up to two people. Learn from the instructor of your choice and refine your skills as a dancer.

 
 
 

What students are saying

Testimonials
Anna C.

“I've been wanting to learn how to Lindy for years now, so I was over the moon excited when I saw that Blair and Emily started Bend Lindy Hop. The community that they've established is so welcoming and supportive, I feel comfortable trying new things and messing up before I succeed. I look forward to Sunday nights and the chance to dance each week. If you're in town for a lesson or a social dance please come out and join us, it's a wonderful time.”

Melissa T.

“I had so much fun at Bend Lindy Hop’s Sunday night class. Having never been to a single dance class, ever, I really appreciate how welcoming the group was. I was super nervous but I had such a great time!! I actually can’t wait to do to another class!”

Janice + John

“Showing up to weekly classes with the Bend Lindy Hop team often begins with Blair opening the door, smiling and telling us how glad he is to see us. This is just a small example of the safe, welcoming environment and genuine sense of community that has been created by Emily, Sara Lee, Jaron and Blair as they share their passion and knowledge of Lindy Hop and social dancing. The weekly classes follow a progressive theme each month, are always changing and fresh. They are a great opportunity to have fun, get some exercise, and meet new people while learning a diverse and energetic dance. We are so happy that this team has further committed to hosting and promoting inclusive social dances, filling a much needed void in Bend!”

Paul S.

“Dropped in from Texas, took lessons, great instructors, friendly community. Highly recommend you try them out.”

Jessica Z.

“I was thrilled to find a welcoming group of Lindy Hoppers in Bend! They have excellent teachers, who are fantastic at reaching out to beginners and challenging advanced dancers to be their best self. Please do yourself a favor and check them out!!!”