Cut Yourself Some Rug

Swing dancing has passed in and out of fashion over the past 70-odd years, and throughout its history, it has been a popular pursuit in Kansas City. Folks in these parts have been jumpin' and jivin' to good old party jazz since Count Basie's Orchestra began throwing down back in the '20s.Swing dancing and the music that drives it haven't gone anywhere. With the right band playing (the Grand Marquis, for one), it's not uncommon to see a whole new generation of swing dancers cut a rug on local dance floors. It's amazing to watch and even better to learn — which is where swing dance lessons come in handy. Tonight and every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m., for a piddly five bucks, beginners can learn swing basics at Marty's Blues Café (5240 Merriam Drive in Merriam, 913-384-5646) from the experienced instructors at Blue Martini Entertainment.

Tuesdays, 2007