Ryan Francois
Ryan Francois’ [Class Schedule] [Event Calendar]
a string of awards, credits and competition victories behind them, Ryan Francois and Jenny Thomas are widely regarded as the top Lindy Hop couple in the world today. Masters of this style, jazz and tap dancing, they are constantly in demand for their performing, choreography and teaching skills.
Ryan was at the heart of the revival of Lindy Hop in the mid 80s when, as a member of The Jiving Lindyhoppers, he traveled to New York to meet and perform for original Savoy Ballroom dancer Frank Manning. He left this troupe to pursue his own vision and in 1987 he founded the authentic jazz dance company Zoots & Spangles.
The troupe was much sought-after for television appearances, pop videos and commercials. To spread his knowledge and love of Lindy Hop, Ryan co-founded Jitterbugs, the swing dance club that still meets every Wednesday in London.
It is this club that gave its name to The Jitterbug Stroll, a swing line dance that Ryan choreographed in 1992. From Sydney through Singapore and Sweden to San Francisco, it is the most popular new swing routine of the last 50 years. Ryan once remarked "When I saw Frankie Manning get up to do it, I knew I'd got it right!"
Videos
Ryan and Jenny perform their 1st place routine at the US Open.
