Welcome to the home page of Mike & Mary Richardson, swing dance instructors & performers.  We teach and promote the original swing dances of the 1930's & 40's big band swing era - Lindy Hop & Balboa - and the great music of that era!  Our motto: Keepin' it Real!

Subscribe to the Hepcats Email Newsletter for the latest info on classes and dances - - and for discounts!  Send an email to Mike Richardson at   info@luv2swingdance.com   and he'll get you set up for the newsletter.

Notes:  (1) you'll receive a verification email from Mike, and (2) we don't sell, lend or otherwise provide your email info to anyone.

What's next?

o  Hepcats Winter 2026 classes start Sunday, January 25th.  Class registration now open!  See the Hepcats classes web page for all info.

Classes take place at 1801 Alexandria Dr., Suite 132 (Arthur Murray Dance Studio), Lexington, KY; in Gardenside, across from Kroger.

 

Out-of-Town Events

Thur., Nov. 13th:  Blair Carman & the Bellview Boys play at Jim & Jacks on the River in Cincy, 7 - 10 pm.  A very good band, lots of early rock 'n' roll and rockabilly.  Jim & Jack's in Cincy has a nice wooden dance floor, and good food, get a bit to eat before the dance!

 

Sat., Sep. 6th:  This year's Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) 1940's day was once again a fun event to attend!  Check out this web page for some photos from the event.  And keep an eye out for the date of the event in 2026!

 

 

 

Hepcats Classes & Dances

Hepcats Winter 2026 classes start Sunday, January 25th!  Registration for classes now open.  See the Hepcats classes web page for all info.

Classes take place at 1801 Alexandria Dr., Suite 132 (Arthur Murray Dance Studio), Lexington, KY; in Gardenside, across from Kroger.

 

Private Lessons.  Want to learn right away and get one-on-one instruction?  Take a private lesson with Mike & Mary!  Contact Mike at info@luv2swingdance.com, or 859-420-2426 for info.

 

Videos: The Music & the Dance

The Music.  One of the best bands of the big band era was the great Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra.  Check out this recording of their version of "Annie Laurie", recorded in 1937.

The Dance.  Check out this video clip of a birthday dance for Mike, dancing Balboa to Count Basie "Swingin' the Blues", c. 230 bpm!

 

Vintage Clothing & Swing Dancing

Mike & Mary Richardson have won several swing-era, i.e. 1930’s/40’s best dressed vintage contests, couple and/or individual.  In addition to best dressed vintage contests, we often swing dance in our vintage clothes and shoes. Click here for more info on vintage clothing.  Also, feel free to ask us questions, we are happy to share our knowledge and expertise!

Travel - Vintage Clothes - Cruising!  As some of you may know, Mike & Mary no longer work full-time, but we don’t like to use the word “retired” – we are staying busy and active!  And we have been able to do some traveling.  Click here for info on some of Mike & Mary’s travel adventures.