Discussions & Lectures
The Art of Social Dancing • Comfort, Style, Motion, Beat • Other Curated Lectures
History + Philosophy + Personality = Joy!
Peter Flahiff is an internationally acclaimed speaker whose talks span the full spectrum of the swing dance experience — its history, music, social dynamics, technique, and cultural significance. Drawing on decades of experience as a dancer, teacher, DJ, and historian, Peter offers rare and compelling insight into how swing functions both on the dance floor and within the communities that sustain it. His presentations are thoughtful, engaging, and deeply informed, blending storytelling, scholarship, and practical wisdom to illuminate the art and meaning of swing dance. Whether addressing beginners or seasoned dancers, Peter’s talks leave audiences inspired, better informed, and more connected to the dance they love.
The Art of Social Dancing
Peter Flahiff’s internationally acclaimed discussion, “The Art of Social Dancing” is an incredible insight into what it truly means to be a great dance partner. Drawing on over thirty years as a sought-after social dancer and teacher around the world, Peter candidly explores the unspoken thoughts, fears, and challenges we all experience on the dance floor.
Engaging, interactive, and fun, the session is filled with stories, reflection, and thought-provoking questions. Whether you’re brand new to social dancing, a seasoned dancer riding a high, or pushing through a plateau or burnout — this talk is for you.
“Comfort, Style, Motion, Beat” — Creating Your Own Dance Cookbook
Dancing can be approached in a variety of ways: competitive, artistic, social, creative, political, historical, and many more. In Peter’s view, all of these ideas are not only valid, but should be studied and embraced as a way of sharing dance with more and more people!
In his latest discussion “Comfort, Style, Motion, Beat”, Peter Flahiff explores some of the lenses we can use to enjoy social swing dancing. He talks about the fascinating history of social dance in America and how vital it can be in society today. He shares his love of the idea that social dancing of any kind, at any level, can help bring our increasingly divided world closer together.
And he celebrates the “enchantingly normal” wonders of making social dancing approachable and enjoyable for everyone!
Curated Lectures
Inviting Peter Flahiff to speak at your swing dance event means offering your community a thoughtfully curated lecture tailored to exactly what your event needs. Internationally acclaimed for his depth of knowledge and engaging delivery, Peter draws on decades of experience to create talks that can span swing dance history, musical interpretation, social dynamics, and what it truly means to be the best partner on the floor.
Each presentation is customized in collaboration with organizers, ensuring the content resonates with your dancers and supports the goals of your event. Insightful, accessible, and inspiring, Peter’s lectures enrich the dance experience—connecting the music, the movement, and the people who bring swing to life.
