Shelley Saxena West Coast Swing
I still remember the very moment I knew I had to dance...
It was at one of those dinner parties at the home of my dad’s new colleague.
Two young girls my age asked if I wanted to see what they had learned in Jazz class that day. Not having any idea what they were talking about, I nodded in agreement.
They danced. I stood there in total amazement. For me, it was the most wondrous thing I had ever seen in my 11 years of life.
That was the beginning of the journey.
Focusing on Jazz dance from age 11, I continued studying dance in University (alongside my Bachelor of Commerce at University of Calgary).
Jazz, Ballet, Modern, and even African took me to a new level in my dancing and opened up performance experiences I will cherish for a lifetime.
Discovering West Coast Swing
Soon after graduation, I discovered partner dancing. A whole new set of skills to explore.
After getting a little Ballroom and Salsa under my belt, I was later introduced to West Coast Swing. The music, the connection, the expressiveness, and especially the musicality completely drew me in.
I have danced, studied and competed in West Coast Swing for 18 years. It is my passion and my specialty.
In 2012, I was honoured to be the feature dancer in the September issue of Vibrance Magazine. See Media page for the full article.
Currently I teach, demo, and compete in the dance. I love every moment of it. The competition journey has lifted me to the All-Star level where I currently compete (in accordance to World Swing Dance Council point structure).
I also continue to grow in the dance by staying a student of West Coast Swing. I learn from my fabulous mentors and coaches in the US, and stay current to its continuous evolution.
I teach group classes and private lessons across Toronto and surrounding area. I welcome brand new students, coach serious competitors, or help anyone who just wants to have fun and keep learning.