The 22^nd Annual U.S. Open Swing Dance Championship: A Review

by: Leslie Huber

I was concerned that an event so large would seem impersonal, and while it did feel less tight-knit than other events I’ve attended, the event organizers—Ron and Tyoni—made some significant changes to ensure that this year it would be the best event possible. The stage was moved forward to create a dance floor that was closer to the audience; black seat covers adorned all of the chairs in order to eliminate the "sea of orange" from the previous years; and the sound system was enhanced. What I felt additionally enhanced the experience was the superb MC—Robert Royston. He did an excellent job making the crowd seem like a single, united front, all rallying for their fellow dancers, even though the large number of people and stadium seating arrangement made this task seem unattainable. Robert’s warm personality and genuine fondness of the dance community was evident in every word he spoke, a fact which further promoted the kind of camaraderie and support that is necessary to make an event successful.

All divisions of dance at the U.S. Open—Pro and Non-Pro alike—were definitely a sight to see. I was so impressed by the level of skill and professionalism that each couple/individual brought to the dance floor. It was immediately apparent to me that months of training and preparation were invested in the routines that were showcased. This is primarily what makes the U.S. Open such a classy, professional event: it is one of the few events that gives dancers the opportunity to perform in this way, and gives audiences the privilege of witnessing it. Some performances were fun, crowd-pleasing routines that brought the audience to their feet, while others were subtle and breathtaking, leaving everyone in awe of their beauty.

What topped off an already spectacular event was the unmatchable social dancing that took place on Friday and Saturday night. I am accustomed to having great nights of social dancing at large conventions, as it is a forum which attracts such a diversity of dancers, many of which are of the best in the country—but this event is truly the pinnacle of great dancing. Friday night really served to get the party started, but Saturday was by far the best night of dancing. DJ Jumpin’ Jack Smith brought the best swing music to the floor on Saturday night; I was one of several people who stayed out until the early hours of the morning—despite aching muscles and drooping eyelids—because the music and the dancing was so addicting.

My first experience at the U.S. Open was very satisfying; I would say that it is definitely worth the ticket price. Everything about the Open—the competitions/routines, the social dancing, the MC, the DJ’s, and the event organization/management—was impressive. A testament to my experience can be summed up with this: 23^rd Annual U.S. Open, here I come! That’s right, I already pre-purchased my ticket for 2005.