Ballroom Dancing/Expert Profile


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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

Education/Credentials

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

Awards and Honors

American Champion, numerous international honors

What do you like about this subject?

The joy and comraderie that comes from learning to swing dance. 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.

Average Ratings

Recent Reviews from Users

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    K = Knowledgeability    C = Clarity of Response    P = Politeness
UserDateKCPComments
David09/19/07101010Thank-you for your helpful advice!
Gerhild krapf09/18/07101010Thank you so very much--this is a .....
Kai06/14/07101010Great answer. Exactly what I was looking .....

Recent Answers from Eden Atencio

2010-01-03 Pop Songs Suitable for Tango?:

Hi Venus!    Great question. I'm not an encyclopedia on tango (I am on swing) but I can certainly give you some of my favorites.    I enjoy Gotan Project tremendously. Though not pop songs, their remixes

2009-12-28 Wedding Dance:

Hi Melissa-    First off, congrats on choosing a waltz as your first dance! I find the waltz so lovely and romantic, yet few people choose it for their wedding.    YouTube is a great resource. There are

2007-10-10 dressing up for a performance:

Great question Michelle!    Dressing for performance is so important. The key is that your wardrobe be both attractive AND functional. I have seen many a rhinestone bikini top go flying during a routine

2007-09-17 Diet and Dance?:

Hi!    Not being your personal doctor or nutritionist, I can't advise you specifically.    For general guidance, just consider dance as you would any athletic endeavor. Eat light, balanced meals with whole

2007-08-16 average age?:

HI!    You should get a personal trainer to advise you on strength exercises, but you'll need a full body workout. Also, a lot of people really like Pilates classes for this. I stand by Bikram as the best

 

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