Invitational Competitors
Defending Champions
Bianca Yaghoobi
Bio: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.
Ian Dawson
Bio: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.
Collegiate Shag and Balboa Competitors
Cami Asher
Bio:Cami Asher is a California-based dancer obsessed with Balboa since 2016. Achieving successes at top events on both the National and International such as Cal Bal, Camp Hollywood an European Bal fest.While most would consider her a switch dancer, she finds herself never actually switching – always mentally being in both roles simultaneously.As an instructor, Cami is known for fostering conversation, exploration, and inspiring others to push the bounds of Balboa.
Mark Soraci
Bio:Mark Soraci is a Southern California-based swing dancer known for his high energy, silly facial expressions, musicality, and deep love of Collegiate Shag.Mark has been taking the Shag world by storm with top-three finishes at Camp Hollywood, Hot Rhythm Holiday, and Shag Summer Camp.He is especially drawn to exploring fun and unexpected transitions in and out of classic patterns and has enjoyed experimenting with dynamic ways to incorporate air steps.
Lauren Smith
Bio:Lauren Smith is a lifelong dancer in many styles, and started swing dancing in 2007, since then she could be found dancing almost every night of the week, competing regularly, and teaching locally and around the world.She specializes in jazz era dances, including Lindy Hop, Balboa, Collegiate Shag, Charleston, and Slow Jazz.Her degree in vocal music education allows her to bring a unique approach to classes, incorporating natural musicality, body efficiency, and Alexander method techniques.
Jacob Spinney
Bio:Known by his friends as "Spinney," Jacob Spinney has been obsessed with swing dancing for well over a decade.Spinney’s love for swing dancing has helped him create a unique style focused on creativity and expressiveness.Jacob enjoys sharing his passion for swing dancing, doing slides, and being a goofball.
Sam Chan
Bio: Coming Soon
Grace Durant
Bio: Grace was first introduced to swing dancing in 2009 when she instantly fell in love. She has been dancing, competing, and teaching ever since.As an instructor, Grace loves seeing people grow through dance and finds joy in empowering her students as they learn.With a focus on connection, she teaches versatile techniques that help dancers express themselves freely and dance confidently with anyone.
