GUESTS & PAST INSTRUCTORS

Caitlin Wellman

Dance Instructor (Toronto)

Caitlin teaches her students more than just a bunch of cool moves (but they get that too)! Her focus on solid lead/follow technique – based on momentum, connection, and rhythm – helps her students enjoy the dance on a deeper level and become more connected to the music and their partner. Her teaching is clear and articulate, and full of fun and creative ways of improving your dancing.

She was a founding member of the multi-award winning performance troupe Minnie’s Moochers, from Ithaca, NY, who recently performed at the Frankie95 Celebration in NYC. She has been in demand as a teacher across the US, Canada, Europe, Australia and Asia for many years. With her Toronto partner Chachi, she is the Director & Choreographer for Capital Dance Productions, a performance troupe that specializes in 20th century North American partner and solo dances. She has also been the Artistic Director & Choreographer of The Flappettes, a sassy all female 1920′s Jazz & Charleston troupe.

Caitlin has also made several Television and Print appearances such as: Instant Star, Much Music Video Awards ’06 with Fall Out Boy, Toronto 1 “Toronto Dances” program, and the cover of Dance Spirit Magazine.

Krister Shalm

Dance Instructor (Toronto)

Ever since Krister Shalm first saw a couple Lindy Hopping at the Reservoir Lounge in 2005, he was hooked. Inspired by the joy of the dance, Krister soon became a regular fixture in the scene. Known for his energy, enthusiasm, and love for Lindy Hop, Krister can often be spotted dancing down the street working on his shorty george, camel walk or spank the baby. On the dance floor, he is both fun and entertaining to dance with or to watch. Krister has passion for teaching and sharing the spirit of Lindy Hop – particularly the Zen-like nature behind a person’s connection with both the music and a partner and the resulting dance steps and movements that take shape. His primary inspiration is the original Whitey’s Lindyhoppers troupe who infused the soul of Lindy Hop with their raw energy, power, and emotion. It is this raw essence that Krister tries to capture when he dances and teaches.