SOLO JAZZ
WEDNESDAY · ART DECO 1 · UPSIDE DOWN
Jazz dance as it was danced in the Harlem ballrooms — individual, musical, and endlessly expressive.
What is Solo Jazz?
A rich blend of dance styles and steps popular in Harlem in the 1930s, emerging from African-American dance cultures such as Charleston and tap dance. Personal expression and improvisation are key. Learn solo jazz movements, swinging rhythms and personal expression.
Upside Down is a Ghent-based organisation that, in addition to organising many swing, jazz and blues events and festivals, spreads its passion for these dance cultures at Shoonya. Classes are accessible and playful, aimed at developing social connection, sense of community, improvisation, personal expression and sense of rhythm. Thanks to the Everybody Leads, Everybody Follows principle, anyone can participate.
Sep is a Ghent-based dancer, active as a teacher, versatile artist, MC, DJ and artistic director at Upside Down. His excellent reputation reaches far beyond the borders. Thanks to his great passion for the historical background of dance cultures, and an inexhaustible creativity, he knows how to move young and old.
Leni is an experienced and passionate teacher of swing dance, known for her commitment to the swing community in Ghent. She knows how to inspire dancers from diverse backgrounds in a playful and accessible way. Besides teaching, Leni never tires from organizing and performing within the scene as part of Upside Down.
An eternal student, Ann-Sofie likes to delve into the history of jazz music and dance, sharing her learning in each class. She introduces everyone to musicality and personal expression in an approachable way. In addition to teaching, she organizes events and projects for Upside Down.
Levels & registration
16 sessions · Sep–Jan · see all dates
Spring 2026 classes still running — view the spring schedule →
