25/01/2024
We’re taking a break from weekly classes in 2024. Read on for a message from outgoing president Liam Honer reflecting on Jumptown’s new direction…
What’s in store for 2024?
Normally around this time we are announcing the start of classes and a new schedule for the upcoming year. However, it is with some sadness that Jumptown has decided to put a pause on regular lindy hop and balboa classes in 2024. We’ve taught weekly swing dance classes as a not-for-profit organisation to thousands of people in Canberra for the last 20 years, so this decision did not come lightly. Read on for more detail on why we’ve taken this path and to find out else what we have in store for 2024.
What about any unused class passes?
Please email [email protected] with a scanned copy of your class pass and we will reimburse you for any unused classes 👍.
Why is this happening now?
Our main reason for making this change is not financial, although we have all noticed the reduction in swing dancers in Canberra. Keeping the lights on for weekly classes involves a lot of behind the scenes work. Jumptown is run by volunteers and some of our key contributors (and teachers) have had some recent life changes that mean they need a break or change of pace. We also wanted to pivot and try a different approach to keep things fresh.
Jumptown’s story doesn’t end here…
By restructuring with a new committee and leadership team, we will put all our energy into running our beloved events such as the Jumptown Jam and Canberräng. This means we’ll be able to continue to support the Canberra swing dance scene, albeit in a slightly different capacity. We are also toying with the idea of a monthly social and class, so watch this space 🤔. By simplifying our operations and pivoting to a new approach, we’ll be able to re-emerge with new wings and renewed energy this year 🦋.
So what about our fabulous teaching team?
We can’t thank our lindy hop and balboa teaching teams enough, both past and present. 🙏 So many talented individuals have shared their skills and passion for swing dancing in class over the past 20 years. Most recently, Stef, Dixie, Seriden, Karen, Sarah Ward, Sarah C, Jocelyn, Amy Davies, Gareth, Sam and Richard - thank you for all your work in 2023 and your ongoing support as we venture into new territory.
The new committee & team
Many of our wonderful teaching team have agreed to try their hand at forming a new committee, and we’ll have more on that in the near future.
But first I want to give a special shout out to Dixie, who is stepping down from the committee to take a much deserved break from the hustle and bustle of committee life. Many of you know Dixie, a beautiful dancer and wonderful human who has been a key contributor and volunteer for Jumptown for many years now. She has been a driving force behind the scenes, putting in countless hours of her time, and we wouldn’t have had regular classes, socials, our signature events the Jumptown Jam and Canberräng, or our troupe the Jumptown Jammers, for so long without her. She has a certain way and calmness about her that definitely changed the way we do things for the better, and she always ensured that everyone in the scene was looked after. We cannot thank her enough for all her time, energy and skills🙏. (And don’t worry, she’ll still be around and dancing 💃).
I will be having a break from regular teaching after 20 years and will also be stepping down as president to reduce my workload. I will remain on the new committee to help with the transition, and take on a new role in the committee as events manager to continue to lead the Jam and Canberräng. Who knows, you may even see me back on the dance floor a bit more at interstate events (have already made it to MLX last year and ALX is next on the list 🗓️)
Our students
You have made this decision extremely hard, and we are going to miss seeing you all each week. We exist to bring joy to peoples lives through dance; however, you have also brought so much joy to our lives. There have been so many great moments and laughs and it has been a privilege to share the ups and downs of life with you all, including friendships, relationships, marriages and babies. Thank you for bringing so much happiness to our lives every week and supporting the school in so many ways, regardless of whether you are a newer student or have been dancing with us for many years. We will certainly be seeing you on the dance floor again very soon!
We love you all! Our weekly classes could not have run without you and we haven’t forgotten all your support and help over the years.
While we are putting a pause on regular classes, we will be back very soon with some key announcements, including about the Jam and of course Canberräng. Remember, our story doesn’t end here and we are excited for you to see what Jumptown does next…
Thank you
Liam (on behalf of the Jumptown committee and teaching team)
