History of Shag

There are several theories regarding the origins of the Shag, sometimes referred to as Shag Dance or Shagging, but most would agree it began in the coastal communities of the Carolinas in the late 1920’s and early 1930’s. Loosely based on dances like the Jitterbug and Lindy, which were danced to Big Band music, the Shag evolved as a smooth, patterned step, danced to the beat of the sweet Southern soul, rhythm, and blues played in many of the pavilions and clubs along the Carolina coast.

Some would say it began with a fellow by the name of Lewis Hall, who officially introduced it at the Festival of Pirates in Wilmington in 1928, and then went on to teach it at the Lumina at Wrightsville Beach. Others would say it had its roots in places like the pavilions in Atlantic and Myrtle Beach and the Pad in Ocean Drive. Still others would say it was born in the “jump joints” and small clubs in Seabreeze and Carolina Beach, as well as the inland lake resorts. Wherever it began, people like Chicken Hicks, whose white ‘shag shoes’ reside in the Cape Fear Museum, and others like him and their female partners, refined, taught, and helped spread the dance which has become an integral part of Southern beach culture.

Some would say it began with a fellow by the name of Lewis Hall, who officially introduced it at the Festival of Pirates in Wilmington in 1928, and then went on to teach it at the Lumina at Wrightsville Beach. Others would say it had its roots in places like the pavilions in Atlantic and Myrtle Beach and the Pad in Ocean Drive. Still others would say it was born in the “jump joints” and small clubs in Seabreeze and Carolina Beach, as well as the inland lake resorts. Wherever it began, people like Chicken Hicks, whose white ‘shag shoes’ reside in the Cape Fear Museum, and others like him and their female partners, refined, taught, and helped spread the dance which has become an integral part of Southern beach culture.

Today, the Shag, danced to Beach Music played by Beach Bands, is enjoyed by young and old alike in countless clubs, festivals, and other events from coast to coast, to include a National Shag Dance Competition and a Hall of Fame. And the legacy of the shag lives on and grows with a new generation of junior shaggers bringing their intricate footwork, energy, and innovation to the dance floor.