Following in the footsteps of “Dancing with the Stars,” “America’s Best Dance Crew” and most recently, “Glee,” Loyola students are getting their fill of the performance craze through the new swing dance club.

The club is the brainchild of Thomas Gillis, philosophy sophomore. He says the idea came from a personal interest in swing dancing combined with hearing many people say that they wanted to learn, but didn’t have the time or the money to go off campus for lessons.

The club is both taught and run by students. Gillis, who has never had any formal instruction himself, feels the interaction between the students in the club will form a bond.

“I hope that it will help both guys and girls be social in a new way when exploring the Quarter and dancing to the music that New Orleans is filled with,” Gillis said. “I hope that people will gain an appreciation for both swing dancing and jazz music.”

Gillis stressed that the club was formed for those who have no dancing experience, as well as those who do.

“All of my dancing experience comes from my parents and my friends who have had lessons, as well as being able to put it all into practice at school dances and such,” he said.

“Don’t be afraid if you feel like you have two left feet, no rhythm or terrible hand-eye coordination. We will welcome you just as we welcome experienced dancers,” Gillis said.

Kris Johnson can be reached at [email protected]