California Routine

Created in the middle of 1941, the California Routine is one of the most pervasive and recognizable Lindy Hop routines. Originally choreographed in the middle of 1941, the California Routine represents one of Frankie Manning’s interpretations of Jumpin’ at the Woodside. Created for the movie Hellzapoppin’, the routine featured four couples, all members of Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers, and begins as the last of their solos end. Although it wasn’t the first routine to hit the big screen, it represented a step towards the increased professionalism of lindy hoppers because of the requirements that Frankie Manning placed on himself as the choreographer and the demanding practice schedule placed on the all of the dancers. This routine helped to establish lindy hoppers as more than filler for more established types of entertainers. The California Routine, preserved in the film Hellzapoppin’ is an essential part of Lindy Hop history and a great way to learn about partnered Lindy Hop routines.

Interested in taking a California Routine class? To learn about all the California Routine classes offered, click here.