TRANKY DOO workshop in Leuven with Ann-Sofie – Apollo Swing

✨✨ Tranky Doo workshop with Ann-Sofie ✨✨

Learn another great AUTHENTIC SOLO JAZZ routine!!

The Tranky Doo is a celebrated jazz dance choreography with deep roots in swing culture. According to one source, it was choreographed by the legendary Frankie Manning and “named in tribute to the chorus girl who inspired it.”

Originally performed to the tune of Tuxedo Junction, the Tranky Doo has since been danced to various swing jazz songs in modern times. Today, it is most commonly associated with Ella Fitzgerald’s Dipsy Doodle due to its appearance in the documentary The Spirit Moves. However, the film originally had no sound; Dipsy Doodle was later added to accompany the choreography in the documentary.

Interestingly, while Dipsy Doodle is a 12-bar blues song, the Tranky Doo is choreographed to a 32-bar swing structure, meaning the song and the dance do not perfectly align musically. Despite this mismatch, the pairing remains iconic in swing culture.

Much like the Shim Sham, the Tranky Doo was a staple among Lindy hoppers, showcasing the vibrant creativity and improvisation that defines jazz dance traditions.

Students will perform the routine later that day at the STUK Party in Leuven (performance time to be confirmed). Participation in the performance is optional, so you are welcome to join the workshop even if you do not wish to perform.

📅 TIMING

Saturday 14/11/2026
15:00 – 18 :00 Solo Jazz open+ level
21:00 - 01:00 STUKswing party - performance of the Franky Doo

with Ann-Sofie

🩰 LEVEL

This workshop is designed for dancers with some prior experience in Solo Jazz. You don’t need to be a professional, but it’s not suited for complete beginners either. If you’ve already explored the basics of Solo Jazz or are familiar with the Shim Sham, you’re in the right place! We’ll build on foundational steps and guide you through new movements and rhythms, ensuring a fun and enriching experience for dancers who are ready to take their skills to the next level.

💰 PRICES

40€ For 3 hours Solo Jazz workshop

📍LOCATION

STUK
Naamsestraat 96
3000 Leuven
@ Ensemble Zaal

📞 REGISTRATION
Info: [email protected]
Website Apollo Swing: https://www.apolloswing.be/en/workshop/tranky-doo