My Dance Experience
Much like the other arts, I was introduced to dancing in early highschool, with lyrical dance at MSOA.
I was later invited to a local folk/contra dance hosted once a month, where I learned pattern and line dances. (Virginia Reel, Mairis Wedding, etc.) Eventually, I rebelled against my strict upbringing by finally learning East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop (oh no!) at Stumptown Dance starting in 2016.
This weekly fun activity quickly turned into a huge new passion and I began learning Swing and Lindy techniques from many people for the years to come, followed by the opportunity to teach classes covering the fundamentals starting in 2023 at AFAN.
I had the privilege of teaching 13 students the basics of East Coast Swing at Art for All Nations in Longview WA, in the Spring term of 2023.
This video is the performance they put on at the art revue at the end of the term. The Shim Sham, using the song "Tain't What You Do" By Jimmy Lunceford.
in Portland, OR
My swing journey began in 2016 at Stumptown. Owned and hosted by the immaculate swing instructor, Mindy Barnhart.
I was invited to a social dance one sunday evening, and immediately made it a weekly pursuit. Next, I began attending practicums on Monday nights and private lessons.
Within a few years, I had expanded my list of moves, technique, vocabulary, posture, and routines. None of which would have been possible without Mindy, my "swing mom"
My Swing Manifesto
Swing dancing has strengthened many of my friendships, and created friendships I never thought I'd have.
It has brought so much joy to my life, that I'm happy to share it and it's metaphors wherever I can! This now century old dance changed America forever, and I am honored to be a part of carrying on it's legacy for new generations!
Collegiate Shag
and other Styles!
Collegiate Shag is a sub-category of Swing dancing that has slightly different basic footwork and is extremely high energy. I fell in love with it quickly after discovering it in 2018 when I took classes from Kendall and Ronnie Roderick, and later from Ryan and Keira at the Ball of Fire Dance Co. in 2020.
This dance is much less popular than Lindy and East Coast Swing, but there are many great instructors out there doing their best to give it exposure!
I aim to learn more about collegiate shag, foxtrot, balboa, even west coast, and so on, in the coming years!
Don't Wait Anymore!
If you've told yourself "I should learn how to dance", the time is now. It's scary at first, but Swing is a social dance at it's core. Which means that it is fun, easy-going, low pressure, and you may pick up the fundamentals quickly at any age!
Start with the charleston, or the basic 6 count step.
Contact me if you would like to take a group, couple, or solo lesson!