Teachers

Evita and Michael, full time dancers in NYC, bring an exuberant energy and joy to every project, whether it's teaching classes worldwide or performing in renowned theaters.

Thanks to Ryan Francois & Jenny Thomas, Evita and Michael were introduced to each other in 2003 while working with Ryan's company in Los Angeles. Since then, Evita and Michael have been members of Swing Xtreme. They have performed from New York to London to Japan, and made it to the finals during season 3 of FOX's So You Think You Can Dance - the only Lindy Hop couple to do so.

Currently, the two teach regular classes at Dance Manhattan and continue to travel the world. As teachers, Michael and Evita emphasize anatomy and efficient use of the body. Connecting movements and clearly projecting direction help create their lead and follow technique. Above all other descriptions, one will surely say that Michael and Evita are inspiring to watch and possess a warm welcome to any student of Lindy Hop.

Campbell and Chris bring a unique style of teaching to Blues, exploring old concepts in new ways, and addressing some unfamiliar ones as well. Their classes are straightforward, but thought-provoking. You will always walk away thinking about something new. They have a lively energy to their teaching, and encourage their students to feel curious to try new things, but all in a safe, non-judging environment.

Since forming their partnership in the fall of 2008, they've blazed a trail through the Blues competition circuit, taught at many national and international events, and have impressed dancers across the world with their approachability and joy for dance!

For more information, see Campbell and Chris's website.

Hooked by the music, athleticism, and finesse of Lindy Hop (just like you are), Julee became obsessed with the dance (just like you are). Having taught in Chicago since 1998, Julee trains all the teachers at Big City Swing. She's also proud to have partnered with Chris Yee and Marty Klempner across the country and around the world. And now, as a Michigan Grad, she's excited to make the trip back to Ann Arbor with James.

Since being introduced to the joys of social dancing over a decade ago, James has logged countless hours in workshops, led partners old and young, and sweated through many t-shirts while practicing with his friends. Somewhere in there, he learned to dance. James has taught all over the Midwest and teaches regularly at Big City Swing in Chicago. He also performs with and trains the Big City Swing performance troupe. In addition to dancing, he deejays at venues in Chicago and elsewhere, and blogs about it at Pustoblogsky.

Julee and James both lead and follow and truly understand what each partner needs to deliver in order to make every dance a joyful experience. When you study with them you'll love their clear, concise, and helpful information - and enjoy a few belly laughs as well.

Shauna and Mark (A.K.A. Shark) have many national-event teaching credits including the upcoming event Heartland Swing Festival, and past events Lindy on the Rocks, Lindy Diversion, Nevermore Jazz Ball, Mile High Blues, Shark Attack, and The Rhythm is Jumpin. Locally this pair teaches Lindy Hop every Monday for Boulder Swing Dance, and they regularly perform, teach workshops and classes on Lindy Hop, Tap, Aerials, and performing, and coach dancers at several other local venues.

Mark and Shauna are known for their playfulness, musicality, approachability, and ease at breaking down difficult concepts into tangible checklist items for any dance level. They have a real love for their students, and work toward bringing out each student's own style and hidden potential.

For more about Mark and Shauna, visit their website

Erin has been a pivotal figure in the Michigan jazz dance scene for over a decade. She has taught, competed and performed all over the United States and Canada. Her hallmark movement is sparkly, rhythmic, powerful and loose. Her musicality is deeply felt and expressively communicated. She is a sought-after instructor for her energy, empowerment and of course, her great metaphors. Her students enjoy clear and conversational breakdowns of information spanning music, history, biomechanics and raw movement.

Erin honors the tradition of the dances she teaches without losing sight of innovation and personal expression, and she always hopes to leave her students and audiences informed, inspired, and entertained. Watch out for Erin Morris & Her Ragdolls at this year's New Orleans Girl Jam - they'll be performing Erin's beautiful choreography and keeping the chorus girl spirit alive and well!