In this video, Anthony and Rose—founders of Country Dance Orlando and two of the most entertaining instructors around—break down one of their favorite West Coast Swing patterns: The Monkey Swing. This move is stylish, fun, and packed with connection techniques that can level up any dancer’s WCS game. Whether you’re a West Coast Swing dancer in Orlando or just watching from home, you’re going to love this one.
Funny backstory—when Anthony and Rose first came across this move, they didn’t even know what it was called. They just called it “that cool one with the behind-the-back hand switch and the swoopy spin thing.” Later, they learned it’s officially called The Monkey Swing, and the name stuck. Naturally, they had to teach it on their channel.
This tutorial starts with a demonstration of the pattern so viewers can see exactly what they’re working toward. Then they break it down step-by-step, starting with footwork, body positioning, and how to create the right amount of prep and connection to make the whole move flow smoothly. Anthony explains the lead’s role—stepping out of the slot, prepping the turn, and executing a wrist break to create the iconic wrap-in behind the follower’s back. Rose details what followers should be doing, including pivots, arm placement, and how to maintain proper frame throughout.
One of the biggest highlights of this video is how clearly they explain the concept of elasticity—that stretch and release feeling that makes West Coast Swing so dynamic. They compare it to stretching a rubber band: if you let go too soon or don’t stretch far enough, the energy fizzles. But when you get it right, it creates the perfect setup for the next movement. It’s a simple but powerful idea that’s often overlooked, and they deliver it in a way that’s easy to understand (and easy to laugh at—because of course, there’s always a few jokes along the way).
They also dive deep into the hand connection during the move. The Monkey Swing features a behind-the-back wrist roll and an elbow catch that requires just the right placement—too low or too high, and you’re asking for trouble. Rose points out where to keep the follower’s free arm so it doesn’t accidentally clothesline the lead (yep, that’s a real thing that can happen). From there, the follower rolls into the lead’s arm, and they go into a beautifully expanded “sit and stretch” position, using body leverage to power the free spin out of it.
Throughout the video, Anthony and Rose emphasize that it’s not just about the steps. It’s about spacing, connection, communication, and keeping things fun. They teach with a laid-back energy that makes the material super approachable—perfect for intermediate West Coast Swing dancers who want to feel more confident and look smoother on the dance floor.
They also cover common mistakes and how to fix them: things like over-traveling, dropping frame, or missing the sweet spot on the catch. Anthony even shares how the leader can adjust on the fly if the follower travels too far or not far enough—because as he says, “Even if it’s her fault, it’s still our job to make it work.” (We’re pretty sure he was talking about dancing, but Rose gave him a look like that rule applies at home too.)
If you’re based in Orlando and want to learn this move in person, Anthony and Rose teach weekly West Coast Swing classes as part of their dance program at Country Dance Orlando. Their classes are beginner-friendly but packed with advanced techniques like this for dancers who are ready to take things to the next level.
So whether you’re learning at home or want to hit the dance floor here in Orlando, this is a great move to have in your toolbox. Watch the video, subscribe to their channel, and if you’re local—come dance with them. You’ll be glad you did.