n this video, we’ll learn the Chicken Shack Shuffle, inspired by the 1943 Soundie featuring Mable Lee, where she is both singing and dancing. 

Mable Lee (1921–2019) was an American jazz dancer, tap dancer, singer, and entertainer. She began performing as a child and moved to New York in 1940, where she performed at places including the Apollo Theater. She became known as the “Queen of the Soundies” after appearing in more than 100 of these short musical films during the 1940s. She also performed on Broadway and continued dancing and teaching throughout her life.

I absolutely love this Soundie. Mable’s movements, expression, musicality, and transitions make the whole performance so captivating. There’s so much personality in the way she moves, and every detail feels connected to the music.

This choreography is 100% inspired by Mable Lee. We’ll study her movement and use the choreography as a way to explore her particular style, rhythm, and way of expressing herself.

Pay attention to the transitions, the details, and especially the way Mable uses her waist to start the movements.

Focus: Rhythm · Musicality · Expression · Transitions ·
Inspiration: Mable Lee
Source: Chicken Shack Shuffle — Soundie, 1943
Level: All levels

Watch the original: Chicken Shack Shuffle — Mable Lee (1943)
https://youtu.be/BXQoTgLMysw?si=nJWJr0GYkJNGcMGs