July 2025

Hi everyone,

Firstly, sorry this months newsletter is a bit late. I took this week off to do some work in the garden not realising it would be the hottest week of the year so far. Avoiding heat stroke kept me away from my computer, but I’m back on it now 😀.

Congratulations to those who took part in the International Modern Jive Championships on Saturday 28th June. Win or not, it’s still an achievement to put yourself up there in a competition. I couldn’t participate this year as my attendance was required at my Neice’s wedding. But next year, maybe….

Other than that, we are well into the summer season now so it’s a blessing that we have the air conditioning at the Heene Community Centre. Coupled with the fans, it really takes the edge of the temperature and makes dancing a whole lot more comfortable. Remember to stay hydrated.

Fact of the month: On the 1st July 1972, the first gay pride march was held in England marking a significant moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the UK.

Arundel Festival 2025

A reminder that I have been invited to participate in the Arundel Festival of the Arts this year which is running between 15th and 26th August.

I will be hosting a beginners workshop to introduce complete beginners to Modern Jive, followed by a freestyle dance. If you have any friends or family that have expressed an interest, then let them know about this event. Both are being held at the Arundel Football Club in Mill Road, so easily accessible with good parking nearby.

Saturday 23 Aug 2025 7:00pm - 7:45pm : Beginners Workshop 8:00pm - 11:00pm : Freestyle Dance

The beginners workshop is only £5 and participants are welcome to stay for the freestyle. For everyone else, the freestyle is our usual £10. Registration for the workshop is required at the link below. You can pay on the door for the freestyle as normal, or there is an option to register at the link below too;

https://lerocsussex.setmore.com/Leroc

July Freestyle

This months freestyle is themed as ‘Movie Night’. We will have this backdrop setup at the venue with movie props like clapper boards for photo opportunities. The hall will also be suitably themed. We’ll have a glass of (non-alcoholic) fizz for everyone on the door to welcome you in style.

Interpret the theme in any way you wish. You could come in red carpet chic, dress-up as a famous movie character, or just what you’d wear to the cinema. Probably not what you’d snuggle up in at home for movie night though🙄

Key Dates

Event	Date	Time
Monday Classes	7th, 14th, 21st and 28th July	7:45pm - 10:30pm
July Freestyle	Friday 11th July	7:45pm - 11:00pm

The Art of Leading and Following

One of the most beautiful aspects of Leroc is the connection between the leader and the follower. It’s not just about the steps—it’s about creating a seamless communication that allows the dance to flow effortlessly. Whether you’re leading or following, understanding your role and how to communicate through body movement is key to enhancing your dance experience.

For leaders, it’s all about clear, gentle guidance. Your movements should be smooth and intentional, with a focus on offering subtle cues through your body. Instead of relying on force, try to use your frame and arms to guide your partner’s movements, making sure the connection remains comfortable and fluid. As a leader, being aware of your partner’s comfort and adjusting your lead accordingly will create a better connection and help you both stay in sync.

For followers, the goal is to be responsive and receptive to the leader’s cues. This doesn’t mean waiting passively, but rather, staying alert and engaging with the lead in a way that allows you to interpret the movement and flow with it. Developing your own sense of timing, rhythm, and movement can help you to better “read” the leader’s intentions and stay in harmony with the flow of the dance.

Newsletter and Socials

If you find this newsletter useful, then please take a moment to tell your friends in the dance community. They can subscribe on the Leroc Sussex website, on the Contact Us page: https://www.lerocsussex.com/contact/.

I’d also appreciate it if you would follow us, and share, the social links below.