Mike & Ellie

Mike and Ellie have been dance partners for over 4 years, and in that time have created social dances, classes, workshops, and events. In 2021 they brought their unique style to LA to share in the rich history Lindy Hop holds here, and be surrounded by music and movement that are unparalleled in the area. Constantly pushing to not only maintain and honor the history of Lindy Hop, they also strive to develop their own voice and add to the community that is built around vernacular jazz in its many forms.

​

Ellie has a passion for dance and has dedicated her life to the art form. Ellie started dancing in Colorado where she studied ballet, contemporary, modern, jazz, and more under Nancy Tracy and  at Sangre de Cristo Art Center under Stephen Wynne. She was in pursuit of her professional career as a ballet and contemporary dancer when some injuries and surgeries took her out of performing professionally. In 2016, Ellie moved to Orlando, Florida, and found a new home in swing dancing. It was the social aspect and connection you can create with someone while dancing that attracted Ellie to Lindy Hop. 

​

Mike first started dancing when a collegiate couple taught him how to swing at the ripe age of twelve and by fourteen he was teaching large group classes in Central Florida. From swing he  branched into traditional jazz and hip hop, then found himself in the fiercely competitive world of Ballroom Dance while studying at Brigham Young University. Ballroom dance afforded him the opportunity to train and compete all around the world, eventually landing him in New York City. While the competitive aspect of Ballroom was thrilling, the authenticity of Lindy Hop and other vintage street dances pulled him back to his roots. Making dance accessible to everyone through an exciting and loving community is what Mike is really passionate about.

​