Swing Dancer, Performer, Choreographer and Event Organiser

THE STORY

Jo Manavopoulou

I first started dancing when I was 3 years old. For 15 years I trained in ballet, contemporary, and modern jazz and throughout the years took classes and workshops in various dance styles (Rumba Columbia, Makuru/ Macru, Salsa, Acro-movement, Contact Improvisation). I am always keen to try and experience new dance styles and I strongly believe that dancing unites people, and is a form of expression and communication between people and cultures.

Since 2012 I have focused on swing dancing and dances associated with the swing era 1920-1940 including Lindy Hop, Balboa, Shag, & Vernacular Jazz. I am also familiar with Blues dancing. In addition to attending workshops and classes all over Europe, I trained for many years with Angela Andrew who I consider my mentor. I started teaching regularly in London in 2014 (Swingland), and since then I have also taught in Edinburgh, Bogota, Xanthi and other cities around the globe. I am now based in Thessaloniki, Greece, I am a founding member of Kunia Cultural Hub cooperative, where I teach and organise events. Before I run swing dance classes & events (Swing Box) and perform with the swing dance troupe The Jam Rooters. In previous years I also taught at Swing Academy and organised Thessaloniki Swing Festival for 2 years.

What I love more about swing dancing is the freedom of expression and the connection with other dancers and with the music. Although I am fascinated by technically demanding moves, I believe the magic occurs when people forget about doing the "right" steps, connect with each other, with the music and just feel it. 

I teach both beginners and more experienced dancers, can organise groups sessions or private classes, and choreograph for videos, performances and happenings.