RGDC 2023 CREW

FLIP THROUGH TO SEE THE CREW!

Growing up watching music videos in the 90's, Phoenix found an early interest and in the world of dance which eventually culminated in teaching himself the choreography to Michael Jackson's Thriller, then training his friends to dance alongside him in a high school talent show.

In 2010, Phoenix discovered West Coast Swing, and a new life passion in partner dancing. From there, he began his professional dance training by exploring every style he could get his hands on: Ballroom, Salsa, Blues, Argentine Tango.... but Swing remains his first and greatest love.

Phoenix knew early on that he enjoys following even more than leading, which has spurred him to train and excel in both roles. His passion for following lead him to create the Facebook group "Degendering West Coast Swing", a community of dancers interested in promoting the acceptance and encouragement of gender neutral dancing (eg. anyone can lead or follow, regardless of gender). The community's efforts have collectively gotten the rules changed to allow nontraditional dancers both dance and be recognized in West Coast Swing's primary competitive format. Since the rule change, Phoenix is among the first in the world to achieve a dual "All-Star" competitive ranking both as a lead and as a follow.

His advocacy for gender neutral dancing is still going strong, and he is proud to see how much progress has come from the last few years. He now spends 1-2 weekends a month travelling, teaching, competing, DJing, and judging. Dancing is his light in life, and he's eager to share that light with the world.

Adjudicator, 1997- Present

Adjudicated at more than 400 hundred competitions including both amateur and professional competitions: World Dance Championships, European Championships, Grand Slam Competitions, German Open, many National Championships around the world.

Coach for DanceSport Athletes, 1988- Present

As a traveling coach, produced Champions in the following countries: Austria, Hungary, Italy, Russia and Spain. These champions achieved the following: WDSF Professional Latin Division - World Champion; Senior Latin World and Blackpool Finalist; World Amateur Latin Finalists and Amateur Latin Blackpool Finalists. Provided adjunctive coaching to thousands of couples, athletes and teams. Provided consultative coaching to the highest achieving latin teams in Austria, Hungary and Italy on matters regarding technique, competitive edge, musicality, sports psychology and performance.

Choreographer, 1988- Present

Choreographed routines, show dances in ballroom and latin, as well as cabaret performances, company productions.

Certifications

Professional certification in Latin and Ballroom by

ANMB (Italy)

LIDS (Italy)

FIDS (Italy)

WDSF

Competitor/Performer Achievements

Amateur

Italian Junior Latin American Champion

Italian Junior Ballroom Champion

Italian Youth Latin American Champion

Italian Youth Ballroom Champion

Italian Amateur Latin American Champion

Amateur Grand Slam Latin American Finalist

Amateur GOC Finalist

Professional

Italian Latin American Champion

European Finalist

World Finalist

Italian Latin American Showdance Champion

Latin American Showdance Vice World Champion

Finalists in all major competitions around the world

Winner All England Championships

Winner Imperial Championships

Runner-up Professional Latin World Masters

Performed in Budokan (Tokyo), Kremlin (Moscow), Madison Square garden (NY)

Recipient of the Bill and Bobby Irvine Award 1999

Get ready to salsa your way to the top with Mandeep Sahota! As a workshop instructor, his passion and expertise for dance will have you feeling like a pro in no time. With over 20 years of experience in International Latin and Standard styles, he's got the moves to get you grooving.

But Mandeep's not just any dance instructor. His salsa journey began in sunny California and he's been hooked ever since. And, to top it all off, he met his wife in Los Angeles - a true testament to the power of dance and love!

So come on down and join the fun with Mandeep Sahota, the dance dynamo who's ready to teach you everything he knows about salsa and beyond. With his infectious energy and unbeatable skills, you're sure to leave his workshop feeling like a true dance superstar!

Lee Fox is an experienced and highly qualified adjudicator and workshop instructor in the field of dance. Originally from Georgia, he now calls Fort Lauderdale, Florida his home. With over four decades of teaching experience, Lee specializes in a variety of dance styles including Ballroom, Latin, Disco, and Country/Western.

He holds licentiate degrees in the International Standard, International Latin, American Rhythm, American Smooth, and Theater Arts Styles with the American International Dancesport Association (AIDA), a testament to his expertise and proficiency in these dance forms.

Lee is also actively involved in the dance community, serving as the Vice-President and Examinations Chair of the National Dance Teachers Association of America (NDTAA). He is the Director of Dance for the International Association of Gay/Lesbian Country Western Dance Clubs (IAGLCWDC) and Treasurer of the North American Same Sex Partner Dance Association (NASSPDA).

As a registered adjudicator with USA Dance and the North American Same Sex Partner Dance Association (NASSPDA), Lee brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as a judge, providing expert feedback and guidance to dancers of all levels. 

Additionally, Lee is a sought-after workshop instructor, sharing his expertise with dancers across the country. Lee's dedication to dance is evident in his own accomplishments, having competed in ballroom with his partner Scott at the Gay Games in Amsterdam in 1998 and the Gay Games in Australia in 2002, making the Class A finals both times.

This guy has more energy than a pack of toddlers on a sugar high, and he's got the moves to match. But what's really impressive about Jonno is his background. Before he was tearing up the dance floor, he was a competitive artistic roller skater. That's right, this guy was winning national titles before he even knew what a Lindy Hop was.

But once he discovered swing dancing, there was no turning back. Jonno fell head over heels (or should we say toe-taps over heels?) in love with the Lindy Hop and started learning it like crazy. And when he moved to San Francisco, he stumbled upon line dancing at the Sundance Saloon. It was like a match made in dance heaven.

Before you knew it, Jonno was creating his own line dances that were winning awards left and right. His dances are so popular that they're being taught all over the world. And with names like "Lite After Love", "She's a Natural", and "Bambalam", you know these dances are going to be fun and funky.

But the best thing about Jonno is his infectious joy.

When he's dancing, he's like a kid in a candy store. His creativity knows no bounds, and he's always pushing the envelope with new moves and choreography. This guy is a dancing machine, and he's not stopping anytime soon.

Dance your heart out with the one and only Mark Scolieri! This talented dancer is a true master of many partner dance styles, from classic ballroom to jazz and theater arts. His expertise and skill on the dance floor are matched only by his warm and sentimental spirit, making him a favorite among dancers.

As a classically trained dancer, Mark knows how to move with grace and elegance, but he's also not afraid to let loose and have some fun. He's a true entertainer at heart, bringing his passion for dance to every competition he judges and every class he teaches.

But it's not just his skills as a dancer that make Mark so special. He has a way of connecting with people on a deep and emotional level, making every dance feel like a meaningful experience. Whether you're dancing with him in a competition or taking one of his classes, you'll feel like you're part of a special community that values dance connection and human connection.

With his expertise, warmth, and passion for dance, he's sure to make every dance moment a memorable and meaningful experience.

Swing and sway with the one and only Michael "Mike" Eads! This country and swing superstar has been tearing up the dance floor since 1997 and shows no signs of slowing down. But it's not just his impressive competition record that sets him apart - Mike is also a talented teacher and UCWDC certified judge who knows how to inspire and empower his students.

With numerous UCWDC World Championship titles under his belt and several Classic division finalist nods at the US Open Swing Dance Championships, Mike is a true master of his craft. His skill and expertise are matched only by his infectious energy and playful spirit, making him a favorite among dancers of all ages and skill levels.

Whether he's competing at the highest level or teaching a beginner class, Mike brings his A-game every time. He knows how to break down complicated moves and make them accessible to even the most novice dancers, and his passion for dance is contagious.

“Dance finds us. I teach because I enjoy watching people grow and create joy in their lives.”

Jeffrey Munson is a true inspiration in the world of dance. With over 40 years of experience, he has become a West Coast Swing Allstar and Champion, a US Open Swing Finalist, and an International Ballroom Rising Star Finalist. But for Jeffrey, dance is not just about the accolades and awards. It's about the joy it brings to people's lives.

"Dance finds us," he says. And for those lucky enough to have found Jeffrey as a teacher, they have discovered a true gem. His passion for dance is infectious, and his dedication to his students is unwavering. He believes in them, pushes them to be their best, and celebrates their successes every step of the way.

Watching his students grow and thrive is what brings Jeffrey the greatest joy. He knows that dance has the power to transform lives, and he is grateful to be a part of that journey for so many people.

Get ready to meet Jeffrey Lynn, a powerhouse adjudicator and workshop instructor who will inspire you to reach your full potential! With an extensive list of accomplishments, Jeffrey has proven herself to be a true master of movement. She holds Gold certifications from some of the most prestigious institutions in the dance world, including DVIDA, Arthur Murray, Fred Astaire, and Terpsichore in all four major ballroom styles. Not only that, she's also an amateur champion in ice skating and a theatre arts finalist who took home second place in the US.

Jeffrey's passion for movement doesn't stop there. She holds a degree in kinesiology and is a dynamic movement coach, using her knowledge to help others unlock their full potential. Her expertise extends beyond dance, as she is also certified in Pilates and a professional ski instructor.

As an adjudicator and workshop instructor, Jeffrey Lynn brings her infectious energy and passion for movement to every class and competition. Her expertise and experience make her an invaluable resource for dancers of all levels, and her positive attitude and supportive approach will help you reach new heights.

So, whether you're looking to compete at the highest level or simply want to improve your skills, Jeffrey Lynn is the perfect guide to help you on your journey. Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and energized by this incredible dancer and coach!

Hold on to your hats, folks, because we've got a score tabulator on our hands who knows how to shake things up - none other than Noelle Linch! With over 25 years in the dance world and a resume that includes both Event Director for the New Mexico Dance Fiesta and UCWDC Secretary, Noelle is a true force to be reckoned with.

And when it comes to scoring, she's got the skills to pay the bills. Noelle is the kind of tabulator who can make a spreadsheet sing, and she's not afraid to use her powers for good. With her eagle eye for detail and her quick wit, Noelle keeps the scores accurate and the dancers on their toes. 

And let's be real - when you're dealing with scores, things can get pretty tense. But Noelle knows how to keep things light and fun, with a sense of humor that's as sharp as her tabulating skills. 

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie to the dance world, Noelle is always there to help guide you through the sometimes-confusing world of score tabulating. So if you're looking for a tabulator who's as funny as she is accurate, look no further than Noelle Linch. She's the kind of person who can make even the most tedious of tasks seem like a dance party.

If you're lucky enough to have Judi Caudle as a judge, you'll know you're in for a treat. As a co-director of the Texas Hoedown and an ACDA National Champion, Judi has a wealth of experience under her belt, and she brings that expertise to every competition she judges.

But Judi isn't just a judge - she's also the secretary of the ACDA, which means she's the one responsible for keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. And with her background in audiology, she's got the perfect combination of attention to detail and people skills to make sure that everything goes off without a hitch.

Of course, Judi's not just a professional - she's also a dancer herself. She's competed on the ACDA, UCWDC, and Ballroom circuits, and she's a four-time UCWDC champion. But even more than that, she's grateful that her love of dance has allowed her to make so many lasting friendships in the dance community.

So if you see Judi at a competition, be sure to say hi - she's not just a judge and a secretary, she's also a warm and friendly presence who will make you feel right at home. And who knows - maybe she'll even share some of her winning dance moves with you!

Get ready to meet the one and only Chad Graber - Director of the New Mexico Dance Fiesta, and one heck of a judge and workshop instructor. This guy is a real triple threat - a ballroom and Country western instructor and dancer, and a judge who's seen it all. And let me tell you, he's got a keen eye for both talent and humor.

With his quick wit and infectious charm, Chad is sure to keep you laughing and learning all at once. He's the kind of instructor who makes even the most complex moves seem easy, breaking down the steps with a combination of patience and humor that's truly unmatched. And as a judge, Chad knows how to spot talent from a mile away - but he's not afraid to give a little constructive criticism when it's needed.

But don't worry - he's got a way of delivering even the toughest feedback with a smile and a wink, making you feel like you're in on the joke. In short, if you're looking for an instructor and judge who's as insightful as he is hilarious, look no further than Chad Graber. He's the kind of guy who can teach you to dance like nobody's watching - and then make you laugh so hard you forget that they are.

Christy Kam began her dance career as a ballerina, training and performing with both the Columbia City Ballet in Columbia, SC as well as the Royal Academy of Dance school in Portland, OR. With both companies, she performed in many shows both as a core dancer as well as with a soloist in addition to her teaching schedule.

Upon moving to Philadelphia in 2000, she started her partner dancing career, winning many titles with Pan Thomakos, including the USA Dance nationals: Adult Championship Rhythm winner, 9 Dance (Rhythm and Smooth categories combined) runner up, as well as Pre-Championship 3rd place Latin in 1997 and winning both the Adult Championship Rhythm title as well as the Adult 9 Dance Championship the following year in 1998.

From there, she competed in professional rhythm, smooth, and 9 dance with Cedric Jacobsen. Additionally, she competed in salsa and bachata competitions and toured around the US competing, performing, and teaching with Henri Velandia as well as qualifying for the world salsa championships.

Recently, she has also danced rhythm with Jameson Kilburn, making finals in professional rising star rhythm. Jameson is also her partner for hustle and triple threat (hustle, salsa, and west coast swing), where they have won many titles, most notably winning the first place title in the open professional world hustle championships, professional strictly hustle, and professional triple threat in 2014, making her the current and reigning world hustle champion.

In addition to hustle, she also dances on the country circuit. In 2014, she competed in the pro-pro division with Clive Stevens (winning 3rd place at Worlds 2014). In 2015, Clive and Christy competed both the showcase division winning 1st place at worlds as well as in classic division, winning 2nd place at worlds. Additionally, they earned a gold and two silver medals at the 2015 World games in the couples divisions as well as one silver medal in the world games for Christy’s line dancing. Additionally, at Worlds 2015, Christy won both the classic and showcase divisions of advanced line dance, qualifying her to compete in the superstars line dance category. She is a current competitor in Masters and Superstars as well as a judge on the UCWDC circuit.

Her extensive knowledge base across many types of dance styles, extensive teaching experience, and sense of humor are what her students like most about taking lessons from her. She currently lives in Hershey Pennsylvania and teaches at various local venues.

Get ready to kick up your heels and boogie down with the one and only Rowdy Dufrene! With over 30 years of experience, Rowdy is a true master of all dance styles, but he truly shines when it comes to Country and Swing. This dancing dynamo has won over 20 Professional Dance Championships and has even placed as high as 2nd at the Country Dance World Championships!

But Rowdy's talents don't stop there. He's also a former America's Classic Professional champion and has danced in the highest professional division of Country dancing, Masters. Rowdy travels all over the world teaching, coaching, and judging dance competitions, and he brings his infectious energy and passion to every dance floor he sets foot on.

What Rowdy loves most, though, is teaching new students and watching them light up with excitement as they realize how much they're progressing in their dancing. He knows how to make learning fun and is always encouraging his students to let loose and have a good time. With Rowdy as your teacher, you're sure to feel confident and empowered on the dance floor.

So come on, let's get rowdy with Rowdy! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a total beginner, Rowdy will have you dancing like a star and loving every minute of it.

It's time to dance your heart out with the one and only David Appel! This choreographer, performer, and teacher is always asking questions and exploring the what and why of dance. His passion for movement and its ability to reflect our daily lives and sense of place in the world is palpable in every step he takes.

Whether he's performing solo or collaborating with others, David's work is always engaging and evocative. His movement language and interaction with others on stage will leave you breathless and wanting more. He has a way of putting things together that is both surprising and exhilarating, and you'll find yourself swept up in the moment and reveling in every unexpected turn.

But David's talents don't stop there. As a teacher, he knows how to inspire and empower his students, encouraging them to explore their own movement and creativity. He brings his infectious energy and passion to every class, and his students can't help but feel energized and excited about dance.

Ladies and gents, get ready to swing your partners 'round and 'round because Mona Broussard is in the house! This dynamo of a DJ knows how to get your boots tappin' and your hips shakin' with her killer country western dance tunes.

Mona is the queen of the hoedown, the mistress of the two-step, and the maven of the line dance. With her infectious energy and upbeat attitude, she'll have you feeling like you're at a rodeo, even if you're in the middle of the city.

So dust off your Stetson, polish your boots, and get ready to boogie with Mona Broussard, the country western dance event DJ extraordinaire! Yee-haw!

Get ready to have a blast with the one and only Catherine Pisano-Picard! This high-energy event official is a beloved figure in the Country dance scene, having danced through every division in the UCWDC and ACDA circuits.

Catherine's won championships with her pro partners, including the Couples Division I Open in 2014, proving that she's a force to be reckoned with on the dance floor. And even now, as she competes in the Open Masters Professional Division, she still brings the same youthful energy and enthusiasm that has made her a fan favorite for years.

But Catherine isn't just an incredible dancer - she's also an experienced event director, having worked with Waltz Across Texas since 2015. She knows how to keep the party going and make sure everyone has a great time, whether they're new to the dance floor or seasoned pros.

With her infectious smile, boundless energy, and love of all things dance, Catherine is the perfect event official to help you make memories that will last a lifetime. So come on, let's dance the night away with Catherine Pisano-Picard!

Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to the one and only Brian Picard! This man is a force to be reckoned with on the dance floor, and he knows how to bring the heat to any ballroom event. As a certified ballroom dance instructor, Brian has spent years perfecting his craft, and he's ready to share his passion with the world. 

Whether he's spinning records as a ballroom DJ or serving as a judge for both ballroom and country western dance competitions, Brian is always in his element. He's got the moves, the style, and the charisma to get any crowd on their feet and feeling the rhythm. 

And when it comes to emceeing, Brian is a true pro - he knows how to keep the energy high and the emotions flowing. But what really sets Brian apart is his love for dance and his dedication to the art form. He knows that dance is more than just a series of steps - it's a way of expressing yourself, connecting with others, and celebrating life. So if you want to experience the magic of ballroom dance, there's no better guide than Brian Picard. 

Get ready to feel the music, get lost in the moment, and dance like you've never danced before!

This remarkable woman has been making waves in the world of dance since she first started in 2004. With the guidance of legendary coaches Carroll Shaw and Marta Elder, Pris discovered her true passion for dance and never looked back. She's trained with some of the best instructors in the business and has competed in Division I.

But Pris isn't just a talented dancer - she's also an incredible teacher and mentor. She's helped countless students discover their own love of dance and has coached them to success in Pro/Am competitions. And in 2017, she took her passion to the next level by opening the Midwest Dance & Fitness Center, a thriving community where dancers and fitness enthusiasts can come together to learn, grow, and have fun.

But perhaps Pris's greatest achievement to date was the 1st annual Midwest Dance Festival Country and Ballroom competition, which she kicked off in 2018. It was a truly magical event, filled with incredible performances, joyful energy, and a sense of community that only dance can create.

Pris Young-Haase is a true inspiration, a shining example of what can happen when you follow your dreams with passion, perseverance, and love.

Virginia Vasconi is a world-renowned tango dancer, teacher, and juror. Born in Córdoba, Argentina, Virginia discovered her love for dance at the young age of five, and her passion for tango later led her to move to Buenos Aires in 2008 to pursue it professionally. Virginia has danced with various companies in many prominent theaters in Argentina and is trained in theater and acting, having performed in several theatrical works and musicals.

As a tango dancer, Virginia has exhibited professionally at many of the most renowned milongas and the most prestigious theaters of Buenos Aires, as well as many of the most prominent tango festivals in the world. She has danced with some of the greatest tango dancers and teachers, including Julio Balmaceda, with whom she created the show "Tango, a Society of Two," which premiered in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Virginia is also the creator of a Tango technique based on Yoga and Body Biomechanics, which is mainly characterized by naturalness, fluidity, and organic movement.

Virginia's expertise in tango has led her to become an Official Juror for the World Tango Championships in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and in all the venues in the world in which it operates. She has also been a Jury of other Tango championships around the world. In 2020, Virginia and five other dancers and teachers founded the Mandarinas Tango group, an online project including festivals, seminars, and special thematic classes.

Virginia's dedication to tango and her contributions to the tango community have made her a respected and beloved figure in the world of tango.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the one and only, the incomparable Lacie Forde! This woman is the embodiment of passion and excitement when it comes to dancing. A true master of ballroom and lindy hop, Lacie's skills in tango are what truly set her apart from the rest. Since 2009, Lacie has been exploring the beauty and grace of this art form, honing her skills to become one of the most talented tango dancers and teachers around.

Lacie's journey to becoming a tango superstar began at University of Arizona, where she discovered her love for this mesmerizing dance. It was during a break from school that she stumbled upon a Spanish restaurant in downtown Tucson where she was introduced to the world of tango. It was love at first sight, and Lacie knew she had found her calling. She was soon discovered by an organizer who recognized her incredible talent and asked her to start teaching the pre-milonga class. From that moment on, Lacie has been inspiring and teaching others to fall in love with tango, just as she did.

Lacie's passion for movement has led her to explore body mechanics and other movement modalities, allowing her to create tandas that are not only relaxed and enjoyable but also absolutely breathtaking. Her ability to seamlessly blend technique and emotion is what makes her such an incredible dancer and teacher. And, her hard work and dedication have paid off - Lacie was a Vals finalist in the 2019 SoCal tango championship!

So, if you want to experience the true magic of tango, there's no better person to learn from than Lacie Forde. Her passion, energy, and expertise are absolutely infectious, and you're sure to leave every class and every milonga feeling invigorated, inspired, and completely in love with tango.

Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to the one and only Paul Akmajian - a true master of Argentine Tango! With 25 years of experience under his belt, Paul's passion for tango runs deeper than the Rio de la Plata itself.

As a tango adjudicator, Paul's eye for detail is unmatched. His keen sense of musicality, connection, and improvisational playfulness allows him to spot even the subtlest nuances in a dance. His feedback is always constructive, and his critiques are delivered with the utmost respect and care.

But that's not all - Paul is also a social dancer extraordinaire! His moves are smooth as silk, and his musicality is simply divine. You'll never find him without a partner on the dance floor, and his infectious energy will leave you wanting more.

As a sought-after DJ, Paul has traveled across the United States and around the world to spin the best tango tunes. His music selection is carefully curated to keep dancers energized and moving all night long. From the classics of the Golden Age to the latest hits, Paul knows exactly what it takes to create the perfect atmosphere for a night of tango magic.

So if you're looking for a tango adjudicator or a social dance partner, look no further than Paul Akmajian. His passion for tango is contagious, and his expertise is unmatched. Get ready to be swept away by the beauty of Argentine Tango with Paul at the helm!

Michael Walker is a tango adjudicator like no other. After five decades of dancing, his expertise knows no bounds. As he glides across the dance floor, his movements are infused with an energy that is both captivating and electrifying. Michael's love for Argentine tango is evident in his every step, and it's no wonder that he is one of the most sought-after teachers and performers in the Southwest.

With a career that spans decades, Michael has danced with some of the biggest names in the industry. From ballroom and Latin championships as a teenager to training under the visionary choreographer Martha Graham, Michael has performed on television and on stage in major Las Vegas productions. He's danced with the likes of Bette Midler and Janis Joplin, and backed up Liberace with the Nevada Ballet Theatre in Las Vegas.

But it's Argentine tango that truly sets Michael's heart on fire. "Thirty years ago, I saw Tango Argentino: At that moment I fell in love!" he says. "I was teaching modern ballet and jazz, and tango changed the direction of my dance." Today, Michael works tirelessly to instill the same passion and intensity of Argentine tango in his students, and his love for the dance is infectious.

As a tango adjudicator, Michael's expertise is second to none. His eye for detail is unparalleled, and his ability to convey the intricacies of the dance is unmatched. With Michael as a judge, dancers know that they are in the presence of a true master. And as he watches them perform, his energy and enthusiasm are palpable, pushing dancers to be their very best.

In the world of tango, Michael Walker is a force to be reckoned with. His love for the dance shines through in every step, and his expertise is unmatched. For those lucky enough to learn from him, the passion and intensity of Argentine tango will forever be ingrained in their hearts and souls.

Elaine Rhoades is a talented DJ with a passion for swing dancing. Her journey in the world of dance began in 2010, when she started partner swing dancing in Phoenix, AZ. Over the years, she has honed her lead and follow dance skills and in 2018, she expanded her repertoire by learning West Coast Swing.

Elaine is a natural when it comes to music, and she has been sharing her love for music and WCS dance with others as a local DJ since February 2022. To further refine her craft, Elaine is currently participating in the SwingDiversity University Class of 2023 DJ program, receiving mentoring from DJ faculty Ruby Lair and Koichi Tsunoda. This program focuses on providing training for DJs who belong to historically marginalized groups; Elaine is committed to learning all the techniques and skills needed to become a top-notch DJ.

With her infectious energy and love for music, Elaine Rhoades is a DJ that will keep everyone on the dance floor and moving to the beat.

Are you ready to dance the night away with the one and only MaryKelley Floyd? This unstoppable DJ has been spinning tracks in the Denver area since 2016, and she knows how to keep the party going all night long. MaryKelley got her start in the west coast swing scene back in 2011, and she's been hooked on the rhythm ever since.

Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just getting started, MaryKelley knows how to read the crowd and play the perfect song to get your feet moving. You might find her behind the registration desk or checking in competitors, but when the music starts, she's the star of the show.

With MaryKelley at the helm, you can expect a night filled with energy, excitement, and non-stop dancing. So grab your dancing shoes and get ready for a DJ who knows how to bring the fun to any event. MaryKelley Floyd is here to make your night unforgettable!

Meet Maya Janell, a lead volunteer coordinator for the Rio Grande Dance Classic! When she's not busting a move on the dance floor, you can find her making sure all the volunteers are in the right place at the right time. 

Maya's dance journey began at Starlite ballroom in 2002, where she quickly became a certified DVIDA dance instructor. She may not be active at the studio anymore since moving to Albuquerque, but her passion for dance never fades.

You might remember Maya from her days with the Swing Cats Rhythm Revue, where she dazzled audiences with her Lindy Hop skills from 2005-2007. She's a true Lindy lover and dance enthusiast, and her infectious energy is sure to get everyone moving. Plus, with her organizational skills, she's the perfect person to make sure everything runs smoothly at the Rio Grande Dance Classic. 

So if you see Maya at the event, don't be shy - come say hi and get ready to dance the night away!

Join Cheryl Noonan, a lead volunteer coordinator for the Rio Grande Dance Classic! With over 16 years of teaching and performing partner dancing in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, Cheryl is an experienced dance star. But what truly sets her apart is her passion for getting involved in the community as an avid volunteer.

Cheryl actively engages with various dance groups in the area, bringing her infectious enthusiasm for dance to everyone she meets. Her warmth and patience make her a hit with both beginners and experienced dancers alike. And when it comes to breaking down dance steps, Cheryl has a thoroughness that is unmatched.

But what truly sets Cheryl apart is her focus on making her students better dancers overall. Her passion for seeing her students connect with their partners and truly understand the dance is what drives her. When everything clicks and the magic happens on the dance floor, you can see the excitement in her students' eyes. It's a magical moment that Cheryl loves to share with everyone.

With Cheryl as your lead volunteer coordinator, you can rest assured that the Rio Grande Dance Classic will be a success. Her dedication to community involvement and passion for dance will ensure that everyone has a great time.

Nicolás is a true dance connoisseur, a master of his craft, and a vibrant spirit that fills the room with joy and energy. His journey with partner dancing began over two decades ago, in the heart of Albuquerque, New Mexico. It was here that he discovered the beauty and excitement of Ballroom and Latin dance, and quickly fell head over heels for the sport.

Nicolás embodies the power of dedication and hard work, becoming a fully certified dance instructor at Fred Astaire Dance Studios under the guidance of national examiner Jennifer McCalla.

With a passion for absorbing as many different styles as possible, Nicolás underwent private training from a wide range of experts, including the likes of Eddie Simon, Jose Decamps, Bob Powers, and Julia Gorchakova, to name but a few. His dedication and hard work paid off, as he was awarded top teacher accolades at a host of prestigious events, including DVIDA National championships, Dancing A La Carte, New England Open, and the New Mexico Dance Fiesta.

But Nicolás' love for dance was not limited to the competitive arena. In the early 2000s, he discovered the joy of country dance events, and in particular, open role dancing. It was a revelation that brought even more happiness and excitement into his life, spurring him on to create his own event, the Rio Grande Dance Classic.

This independent event quickly became a shining star on the dance calendar, open to all styles of partner dance and drawing crowds from far and wide. When approached by the ACDA, Nicolás was more than happy to become a part of the organization, proud to have the Rio Grande Dance Classic as a member of a fun and loving dance family.

Nicolás is not just a dancer, but a true ambassador for the art of partner dancing. His infectious enthusiasm and heartfelt dedication have touched the lives of countless people, inspiring them to take up dance and experience the sheer joy and excitement that it brings. He is a true testament to the power of dance to transform lives and bring people together, and we are proud to call him one of our own.