Description
Join us for the 2026 edition of The Shag Thing, 18.-20. September!
Both beginners, those who have been dancing Shag for a while and those who just can't stop shagging will learn many new techniques and moves that you can use to LEVEL UP your Shag skills.
Instructors:
ADA AND GIADA:The Shagiadas are a Shag duo based in Bologna, Italy, formed in 2020 and running the biggest Shag scene in Italy. Energetic, often silly, often elegant, Ada & Giada value communication and personal sparkle in their dancing. In their class you’ll find solid work on foundation, innovative twists, much inspiration from old clips - and a chemistry that will light up the room!
AILA AND PETER: They have been dancing together and sharing their love of Shag for over twenty years. Whether building a scene in London or teaching at events across Europe, they’ve earned a strong reputation for insightful, entertaining, and engaging classes. Peter and Aila's teaching is grounded in classic moves and elegant styling, and is informed by first hand research into original clips. Their students learn to combine efficient movement with playful musicality through immediate, highly responsive tuition.
Peter Ayres founded London's 'Shag Pile', a group dedicated to growing the Shag scene through classes, workshops, and events, delivered with a team of London's best dancers and international guests. Peter loves the broad range of music that works with Shag, from the 1920s through the 1950s to today.
Aila Floyd brings a wealth of professional dance training and performance experience to her teaching. As the director and choreographer of highly regarded flapper troupe "The Bees' Knees,” and "The Shag Pilots”, she has performed, competed and won at prestigious events, festivals and competitions across the UK and Europe.
Schedule (preliminary):
Friday party: 19:00-00:00
Classes Saturday: 11:00-16:00
Saturday party: 20:00-01:00
Classes Sunday: 11:00-16:00
Sunday tea dance: 16:00-20:00
Three levels of classes:
Never shagged (beginner):
This level requires no previous shag experience. Experience with other dance styles is an advantage as this level will move fast and take you from shag zero to shag hero over the weekend. Also suitable if you are currently doing Shag beginner at Bårdar Swing Club.
Would shag again (improver):
You have danced shag before and are eager to learn something new. You wish to improve your understanding of the music, your technique and your partner dancing. Also suitable if you are currently doing or have completed Shag improver at Bårdar Swing Club.
Can’t stop shagging (advanced):
You have been dancing shag for a number of years and wish to take your dancing to a new level. You understand the importance of improvisation and communication and are eager to push yourself. You are actively working on improving your dancing outside of classes and often social dance.