Instructors

Private Lessons
Want to level up your dancing with top instructors? On Friday, October 2nd, you can book private lessons—solo or as a couple!
We’ve reserved rooms at Sentralen for free use. Contact the instructors directly to set up a time and price—some may be available Thursday too. Need their info? Email us at:  oslobalboaweekend@bardarswingclub.no!

Blake & Grace (US)

As Southern California college students, both Blake and Grace discovered swing dancing at their respective universities and were instantly hooked. With SoCal’s rich history and dozens of the world’s best dancers and instructors, they developed a relentless obsession for Lindy, Balboa, and Collegiate Shag, and regularly social danced up to five nights a week.  Both together and with other partners, they have won a variety of national and international competitions including ILHC, Camp Hollywood, California Balboa Classic, Hot Rhythm Holiday, and Camp Jitterbug. Blake and Grace share a deep reverence for history of the dance and music, especially the original dancers from Southern California, and often teach classes that focus on particular styles and techniques they used. As instructors, they emphasize beautiful basics, the joy of connected partnered movement, and how to connect the dance to the music. 

Javi and Lucía (Spain)

Lucía and Javi have been dancing and teaching Lindy Hop, Balboa and Slow Bal together since 2012, abroad and mostly across their motherland Spain. Proud owners and directors of Black Bottom school in Valencia, with more than 500 students, they also organize Valencia Balboa Festival. Their fine technique, musicality and style made them win competitions in international festivals, such as European Balboa Anniversary (Strictly 2018). In classes, they love to focus on partnership and creating an harmonious flow while dancing in couple playing and reacting with each other. They offer students the tools for both ‘leader’ and ‘follower’ to communicate and create together their own steps and variations.

For them, dancing Balboa is a continuous game with music and the fun of jazz dance in its purest form. Be ready for challenging and fun classes with them!

Katja & Vincenzo (SI / IT)

Katja Završnik is a renowned professional dancer, swing dance instructor, and choreographer. With a passion for dance ignited at the age of five, Katja has dedicated her life to the art of movement. In 2010, she transitioned from a career in video and film editing to pursue dance full-time, a decision that has seen her travel the world teaching, performing, and inspiring others.

Katja’s dance education spans various disciplines learned throughout her childhood in multiple dance schools. She has honed her skills by attending international workshops specialising in swing dances. Her extensive training includes acrobatic rock and roll, ballet, modern jazz, gymnastics, modern dance, and ballroom dances. Since 2005, she has focused primarily on partner and solo dances from the jazz age and swing era, mastering styles such as Lindy Hop, Balboa, Charleston, St. Louis Shag, authentic (vernacular) jazz dance, and ragtime dances.

Known for her versatility and expertise, Katja is celebrated as one of the top followers in the swing dance scene. Her deep understanding of reactivity and connection sets her apart, making her a sought-after instructor and performer. Since 2010, she has been a fixture at swing dance festivals and special events worldwide, sharing her knowledge and passion with a global audience.

In addition to her dance career, Katja is a certified pregnancy and postpartum exercise specialist, and Organizer of Wellness services (a graduate of Wellness program studies, through which she gained a basic understanding of psychology, mental health, nutrition, movement and physical activity).

Her life is a testament to her love for dance and her dedication to enriching the lives of others through movement and connection.

Vincenzo Fesi is a worldwide recognised dancer, teacher and choreographer. As a real globetrotter, he teaches and performs at the most prestigious swing dance events around the world. Cape Town, Melbourne, Paris, Stockholm, Seoul and London are just some of the cities where he is invited as a guest every other weekend.

He was born at Lake Como, but Roma adopted him three years ago. Inspired by the incomparable Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly and Frankie Manning Vincenzo Fesi dances the Lindy Hop, the Balboa, the tap dance and many other jazz styles.

Vincenzo organizes intensive workshops for beginners and professional dancers alike both in Como and in Roma. He has a specific teaching method that he developed throughout his years of experience in the fields. When he teaches and when he performs, Vincenzo gives off a contagious energy that drives his audience crazy.

Vincenzo is not only a dancer. He choreographs, sings, presents radio shows and he is also a capable story teller of the history of jazz dance. In 2014 he wrote the preface of the Italian edition of the book “Frankie Manning: ambasciatore dello swing”.

Mel & Jo (UK)

Mel and Jo are dance enthusiasts who dedicate their time to encourage swing dancing in the United Kingdom. Being familiar with lindy hop and blues, their current passion is mastering Balboa and Bal-swing – a journey of continuous learning.

They started salsa dancing in Singapore and after moving to the United Kingdom in 2000, they began their journey in swing dancing. After dancing lindy hop, charleston and blues for several years they then fell in love with Balboa and became dedicated to learning this dance from 2008. However, they still love and continue dancing all styles to this day.

Jo has been athletic since she was a teenager and currently holds a brown belt in Xen-Do Martial Arts. Mel, who also accomplished medals in various sports, was a break-dancer and a DJ in his younger years. From this personal experience, they apply the techniques of physical motion to help them understand and master the nature of dance movement. Both of them also currently practice Tai Chi martial arts to help with body conditioning and training.

Currently, you can find them social dancing and competing at various events across Europe and the United States. They also teach Balboa/Bal-swing throughout the United Kingdom and Europe. Their “down-to-earth” and positive attitude helps to make the classes they teach not only informative but also very enjoyable. Mel still continues his love for music as a DJ and emcee at dance events across Europe and North America.

Their aspirations to be balboa ambassadors stems from their drive to continuously learn and share the passion and knowledge of dance to enthusiasts alike.

Alberto & Elena (IT) – Concept teachers

Meet Alberto and Elena our concept class teachers. Known for their elegant style, fluid movement, and deep passion for Pure Balboa, they bring a unique approach to the dance. Their classes focuses on connection, body awareness, and musicality, creating a fun and supportive learning environment. With experience from major Balboa events and top placements in competitions, they are ready to give you an inspiring taster class!