Swing dancing has experienced a revival in recent decades, with groups reforming in the 1980s and new fans being won over in the following decade thanks to everything from Gap commercials to the neo-swing music of bands such as Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and the Squirrel Nut Zippers. The success of the 1999 Broadway show Swing! further cemented the popularity of this style of dance. Today, swing dancing is back in the public eye and competitions are being broadcast on television.
Jean Veloz is a star of swing dancing and was particularly prominent in the 1940s when she appeared in classic Hollywood dance films such as Jive Junction and The Horns Blow at Midnight. She also appeared on her late husband’s TV show in the 1950s, which taught viewers the basics of swing dance and other styles. During the 1990s swing revival, Veloz came out of retirement to demonstrate her skills and spread her love of dance. Even at 90 years old, Veloz still dances with incredible skill and her moves easily rival those of her decades-younger dance partner.
Veloz’s dancing is a testament to the benefits of staying active and engaged as we age. It’s clear that dancing has kept her healthy and spry, and she continues to teach and demonstrate well into her 90s. With swing dancing back in the public eye, there’s no better time to give it a try and see what all the fuss is about.
Watch her dancing in the video below:
