Breakaway
A solo-escape swing step from the 1920s that preceded the Lindy Hop.
Breakaway is a historical swing dance from the 1920s. It features a partner separating to dance solo before rejoining. This style served as the direct precursor to the Lindy Hop.
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- Breakaway was renamed Lindy Hop by Shorty George in 1927.
- It is a syncopated two-step swing dance.
- Features a partner escaping for a solo while the other pursues.
- Blends elements from Texas Tommy and Apache Dance.
- Also known as Break-A-Way or early Lindy.
What is Breakaway?
Breakaway was a social dance performed in pairs during the early twentieth century. It functioned as a syncopated two-step variant within the broader swing family. The movement involved a specific separation where one dancer broke away from their partner to perform solo steps. This action mirrored the Coquette figure found in Polka dancing. The style blended elements from several popular dances of the era. These included the Texas Tommy and the Apache Dance. It also incorporated traits from the Turkey Trot and Cakewalk. The result was a lively couple dance with distinct solo moments.
Where does Breakaway come from?
The term Breakaway describes the momentary separation of partners in the dance. Shorty George renamed this style the Lindy Hop in 1927. Before that name took hold, dancers used the term Breakaway. The form emerged as a hybrid of existing social dances. It combined the rhythms of the Two-step with the energy of the Grizzly Bear. The dance evolved alongside other jazz-age movements. Its history is tied to the transition into modern swing styles.
How is Breakaway danced?
Dancers began in a close partnership position. They executed a syncopated two-step pattern together. At a designated point, one partner broke away. The escaping dancer moved into a solo sequence. Their arms remained akimbo during this solo phase. The remaining partner pursued them across the floor. The chase ended when they reunited. The structure relied on this dynamic of escape and pursuit.
Breakaway, drawn
The music of Breakaway
The sources do not specify the instruments or musical tracks used. The dance is classified as a swing style. It relies on syncopated rhythms typical of the era. The tempo supports the fast-paced separation and reunion.
Costume and what is carried
No specific costume details are provided in the sources. Dancers likely wore attire common to the 1920s social scene. The focus remains on the footwork and body mechanics rather than visual spectacle.
When and where Breakaway is danced
This was a social dance performed at gatherings. It was part of the nightlife culture of the 1920s. The dance served as entertainment for couples. It paved the way for later swing dances like the Lindy Hop.
Styles of Breakaway
The dance is considered an early version of the Lindy Hop. Shorty George identified it as the foundation for his new name. The style absorbed influences from multiple contemporary dances. No distinct regional variations are noted in the available text.
What Breakaway means
Breakaway holds significance as a transitional dance form. It marks the evolution from earlier two-steps to full swing. The renaming by Shorty George highlights its role in dance history. It represents a key moment in the development of American social dance.
Questions people ask about Breakaway
What is the Breakaway dance?
It is a 1920s swing dance featuring a partner breaking away for a solo step while the other pursues. It is a syncopated two-step that blends elements from various popular dances of the era.
Where did the Breakaway dance originate?
It originated in the United States during the 1920s. It evolved from earlier social dances like the Two-step and Apache Dance before being renamed Lindy Hop.
How is the Breakaway dance performed?
Partners dance a two-step together until one breaks away. The escaping dancer performs solo with arms akimbo while the partner chases them. They then reunite to continue dancing.
Is Breakaway the same as Lindy Hop?
Breakaway is the earlier name for what became known as the Lindy Hop. Shorty George renamed the style in 1927 after recognizing its potential as a new dance form.
Good reading and sources
- Breakaway (dance) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
- Wikidata recordOpen data
- Videos of Breakaway on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by EveryGhunghroo
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Breakaway (dance)", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryGhunghroo rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes, and it describes the dance in outline: it is not a lesson. Traditions differ from one teacher, village or family to the next. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.
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