Dance & Dancing/Expert Profile


Ask A Question

Expertise

I can answer most any questions related to swing, latin and ballroom dance including: instruction, competition, etiquette, performance, attire, music, wedding dances, film and choreography. Also I have a nerdish knowledge of American movie musicals.

Experience in the area

I am currently a freelance Lindy Hop dancer and instructor in the NYC area. Most recently I was in a fabulous short run holiday show on Broadway called "Sleigh Bells Swing." I've won national and international championships in Lindy Hop and West Coast Swing, and perform locally and nationally. I am an expert in the 20s - 40s jazz era, and have an extensive jazz and swing film and music collection. I also DJ for Swing Dance events and just generally spread the joy of Lindy Hop and jazz wherever I can!

Organizations

Lindy Hop All Stars Edison Ballroom Lindy Hoppers

Publications

Well, photos anyway! Dansa med Mig (Swedish book on dance), Albuquerque Journal, The New Mexican, Daily Lobo

Education/Credentials

Studied with the great Frankie Manning, Norma Miller, Fayard Nicolas, and the Harlem Hot Shots.

Past/Present Clients

George Gee Big Band,Buzztone Promotions for "Dancing with the Stars," Dave Berger Orchestra, You Should Be Dancing Studios, Moving People Dance Theater

What do you like about this subject?

The joy and comraderie that comes from learning to dance and performing. Ain't nothin' like it!

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I hope to continue to keep this lost art in the spotlight. The "Sleigh Bells Swing" show on Broadway was the biggest thing to happen for swing and big band music in NYC for a long time. I hope to get involved in more stage productions and film as well, both as a dancer and choreographer.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

You will next see me performing at the 95th birthday celebration of Mr. Frankie Manning, the Living Legend of Lindy Hop, on May 23rd. It is a great honor, and how lucky am I to have studied with the Master himself!

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

Wardrobe malfunctions. 'Nuff said.

Average Ratings

Recent Reviews from Users

Read More Comments

    K = Knowledgeability    C = Clarity of Response    P = Politeness
UserDateKCPComments
philana01/06/09101010THANK YOU> Great advice!
Ted12/13/07101010 
Ted12/13/07101010 
Rebekah12/01/07101010Thank you for your help!
Bekah09/29/07101010Thank you very much for you're help .....

Recent Answers from Eden Atencio

2011-10-01 Dance Slippers:

Hi Susie-    I'm so glad you've discovered dance as a great way to keep in shape. Sure is fun, isn't it?    Unfortunately, it sounds like you are experiencing the downside as well, as all dancers do at

2011-01-05 dance technique:

Hi Danielle!    This term is quite literal, meaning movement from one side of the stage/room "across the floor" to the other side.     Typically this is done in a class or an audition in order to provide

2010-05-02 straddle jumps:

Hi Kim,    Great question. From what you describe it sounds like you have great flexibility, but may need to strengthen your abdominals,hip flexors, and glutes.     Do you do exercises at the barre? Hold

2009-01-12 START A DANCE STUDIO:

Hi!    Actually you need to contact your county clerk to register your  company name and apply for a business license and tax ID number. As far as location, you will just need to  make sure that you have

2008-12-29 lindy footwear:

Hi!    Sorry for the delayed response. Great question!    I have used many, many shoes throughout the years, and my hands down favorite for all-around cuteness and comfort are Grasshoppers. They are made

 

Ask A Question

Dance & Dancing

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.