On January 24th and 25th, the Spanish Galleon in North Myrtle Beach will play host to the 31st annual National Shag Dance Championship preliminaries. Since 1984, the competition has showcased the talents of some of the best shag dancers in the United States. Starting at 8pm both Friday and Saturday night, the preliminaries will host shaggers in various divisions such as non-pro, junior, senior, pro and masters. After the preliminaries, a finals round will take place March 6-8, 2014 also at the Spanish Galleon in North Myrtle Beach.
If you’re not familiar with the shag, it’s known as the state dance of South Carolina. Performed primarily to “beach music”, shag is a staple in North Myrtle Beach. With its hub only a couple of miles from Oceana Resorts’ own Bay Watch Resort & Conference Center and Atlantic Breeze Ocean Resort, shag dance is a local and visitor favorite since the 1940’s. The “Carolina Shag” is a descendant of the “Carolina Jitterbug”. A six count step partner dance, the shag is much like six count swing.
So, plan to attend the National Shag Dance Championship preliminaries! While you’re here, squeeze in a shag dance lesson or two at Fat Harold’s Beach Club on Main Street. Or, even rub shoulders with the pros themselves at local hotspots like OD Arcade & Lounge or Duck’s Beach Club.
Put on those shagging shoes, but save a one dance for us!