Invitational Competitors

Bianca Yaghoobi

  • Bianca discovered swing dancing in 2019 in Davis, inspired by a performance from the Midtown Stompers, and quickly immersed herself in the Sacramento dance scene.
  • A lifelong fan of jazz and swing music, she found a new way to express herself through dance, particularly enjoying Collegiate Shag and Balboa.
  • Now based in Los Angeles, Bianca has competed in national and international events, winning multiple contests.

Amy Sorenson

  • Amy Sorenson has been a passionate Collegiate Shag dancer since 2006, focusing on the style since 2010 and integrating it into her life.
    
  • She actively dances, competes, and teaches across the US and internationally, emphasizing body mechanics to make dance accessible for everyone.
    
  • Her dance style is characterized as smooth, fast, and precise, reflecting her enthusiasm for sharing her knowledge of Collegiate Shag with others.

Ian Dawson

  • Ian Dawson entered the world of Swing Dance through his passion for vintage clothing and jazz music, discovering dance at the Cat’s Corner in San Francisco.
  • He has contributed to Shag scenes in multiple cities, competed globally, and taught workshops across the US, emphasizing improvisation, rhythm, and connection.
  • Ian is excited to share his love for dance, fostering a sense of community and enjoyment in the swing dancing experience.

Julie Roman

  • Artistic Background: Julie Roman is a classically trained concert pianist and vocalist with experience as a certified music educator and vocal coach, dedicated to promoting the arts.
  • Swing Dance Passion: She collaborates with vintage swing dancers globally, focusing on teaching, choreographing, and performing, with a particular love for Collegiate Shag and aerials.
  • Julie loves exploring the technical skills and personal styles with students to give them mastery over their movements so they can embody the music in whatever ways they choose..

Theresa Manney

  • Dance Passion: Theresa has a lifelong enthusiasm for dance, with extensive experience in ballet, modern, and aerial arts, but she is particularly drawn to jazz music and swing dancing.
  • Favorite Styles: She enjoys various swing dance styles, especially Balboa, Collegiate Shag, Lindy Hop, and solo jazz.
  • Teaching Approach: As an instructor, Theresa emphasizes body mechanics and encourages her students to listen to music to inspire their movement.

Tor Helmer

Bio: Coming Soon

Bios in Instructor Page or Late Night

Haily Holt

Grace Babbes

Josiah Keagy

Blake Thiessen

Jason Hammons

Sarah Stembridge