Our Teachers

Background: As a full-blown swing fanatic since 2004, Ben has studied under masters from the original swing era and worked with top dancers from all over the world. He’s known for his relentless passion and deep knowledge of all things Lindy Hop and jazz.

Specialties: Lindy Hop, Solo Jazz, Tap, Balboa

Favorite Song: “Bottoms Up” by Illinois Jacquet

When he’s not dancing, (which is rare), Ben is off exploring new places and trying new foods.

Background: Emma has been an avid swing dancer since 2017 (after a decade or so of other dance styles). Nowadays she social dances, performs, teaches, and competes both locally and afar. Emma loves expanding her Lindy Hop knowledge and seeks out new learning opportunities whenever possible.

Specialties: Lindy Hop, Solo Jazz, Music Theory & History

Favorite Song: "The Blue Room" by Bennie Moton

Outside of the dance world, Emma is a professional organist and accompanist. She also loves exploring the PNW in search of orcas, birds, and wildflowers.

Background: Leah is a life-long dancer. She started cultivating her love for Lindy Hop in 2007 when she joined her Collegiate Swing performance team. As a Pacific Northwest native, she has enjoyed dancing far and wide, including regional and international competitions. She is known for her elegant and conversational dance style with a keen eye for technique and musicality. Teaching and building dance communities where people feel welcome is one of her greatest passions.

Specialties: Lindy hop, Solo Jazz, Air steps

Favorite Song: My Blue Heaven by Jo Jones

When she's not dancing you'll find her building blanket forts with her 3 kids alongside her husband Matthew, co-running her non-profit dance venue South Sound Stomp, and watching LOTR again.

Background: In 2014, Mari took her first ballroom dance lesson and quickly developed a love for partner dancing. She began teaching in 2017, and has taught many different styles over the years. She has a passion for working with beginners and watching individuals discover the joy of dancing, connection, and community.

Specialties: Salsa, Bachata, Rumba, ChaCha, Merengue, Samba, Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Lindy Hop, Country 2-step, Hustle, Nightclub 2-Step

Favorite Song: “Lavender Coffin” by Lionel Hampton

When she’s not dancing she is likely finding something around the house to organize or clean, trying a new baking recipe, or petting all the cats she possibly can around her neighborhood.

Emma found Lindy Hop in 2017 and has been hooked ever since. She’s danced from Minneapolis to Istanbul and has waged a steady battle to get all her coworkers, friends, and family to take their first rock steps. As someone who started with two left feet and zero rhythm, she is a true believer that anyone is capable of learning and loving Lindy Hop. In her teaching, she emphasizes a solid rhythmic foundation, playfulness, and exploration.

Specialties: Lindy Hop, Solo Jazz

Favorite song: “on the sunny side of the street” by illinois jacquet

Off the dance floor, you’ll find Emma stocking shelves at Trader Joe’s, painting, or enthusiastically asking to pet your dog.

Dancing all her life, Carissa became addicted to swing in 2017 and has been immersed ever since. Bringing a kind and collaborative style, she is always eager to welcome new and experienced dancers.

Specialties: Lindy Hop, Blues

Favorite Song: “Villes Ville Is the Place, Man” by Duke Ellington

When not dancing, Carissa is often off watercolor painting, cuddling their cat or wandering the world camera in hand.