Dirty Water WCS ft. Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew
We’re back at it post-Boston Tea Party with a FRIDAY night dance in April! The VFW is booked on our usual Saturday, but they’ve graciously offered us the space on Friday, April 11th instead. Join local pros Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew for two hours of terrible puns (and perhaps some educational dance content) in the intermediate/advanced classes, or try out west coast swing for the first time with Joe Mahoney.
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage (the right side is safe after the hours posted on the signs).
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-8:00pm Int/adv WCS with Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew
8:00pm-9:00pm Int/adv WCS with Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Joe Mahoney
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Max
ABOUT ALLI & MAX
Alli & Max have been partners in dance and in life since 2018. Both found their love of west coast swing in college; Max in his ballroom club in Washington state, and Alli in Cambridge through an undergraduate course. Alli began dancing shortly after learning to walk and has trained in solo movement on the theatre stage and marching band field for over 25 years. Max is a musician by trade, playing nine instruments and helping hundreds of students discover the joy of music each school year. Together, they provide a balance of energy, technical precision, and humor in their classes that is approachable for dancers of all levels.
Westie Wellness Weekend Ft. Megan Dupree
Biomechanics nerds, perpetually injured dancers, and anyone who wants to be able to WCS well into their 90s unite: sports and orthopedic bodyworker and licensed massage therapist Megan Dupree is coming to Boston! We’ve all taken classes on how to dance, but when have you had a chance to learn how to really MOVE? Megan will take us on a three-hour deep-dive into the mechanics behind how to show up as the strongest, most efficient, and pain-free version of yourself on the dance floor.
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage (the right side is safe after the hours posted on the signs).
SCHEDULE
4:00pm-7:00pm Biomechanics of WCS with Megan Dupree
7:00pm-9:00pm Dinner break
7:30pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class (extended version!) with Desirae Vasquez & Matt Davis
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ TBA
Tara Trafzer Weekender
The queen of the high kick is gracing Boston with her presence: Tara Trafzer is coming in March! As a life-long dancer of multiple styles, Tara brings a depth of knowledge and unmatched eye for detail to all of her classes. If you’re lucky, she may even share some history facts in between all of the amazing west coast swing technique ;)
Tara will facilitate two levelled spotlight critique sessions on Friday night: one for competitive dancers with at least one intermediate point, and one that is open to all dancers. If you’ve never competed in west coast swing or just started competing recently, please join the open-level critique for an opportunity to receive personalized feedback from Tara and dance in front of a crowd cheering wildly just for you! The WSDC Intermediate+ critique is a closed session and no observers will be permitted. Dancers may sign up for a spotlight dance with a partner of their choosing or request a randomly selected partner.
FRIDAY
Location: MOTA Fitness, Wellness, & Spaces, 11 Bow Street, Floor 2, Somerville, MA
7:00pm-8:30pm WSDC Intermediate+ spotlight critique session with Tara (must have at least one WSDC intermediate point or higher- yes, we will check)
8:30pm-10:00pm open-level WCS spotlight critique session with Tara
Spotlight dancers may sign up with a partner of their choosing or request a randomly selected partner
SATURDAY
Location: George Dilboy VFW Post 529, 351 Summer Street, Somerville, MA
2:00pm-5:00pm open-level WCS intensive with Tara (must know basic WCS i.e. side passes, push break, tuck, whip, basic turns)
5:00pm-7:00pm dinner break
7:00pm-9:00pm intermediate/advanced WCS workshops with Tara
9:00pm-12:00am WCS social dancing with DJs Kristen Shaw & Alli Reese
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage (the right side is safe after the hours posted on the signs).
ABOUT TARA
Tara has been dancing for almost 20 years. She has been trained in classical Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, Latin, Hip Hop, and West Coast Swing with the Schwimmers. Tara is known for teaching that focuses on swing technique as well as incorporating musicality into the dance for all levels. Her extensive training in a multitude of dances contributes to her ability to reach dancers from all backgrounds. Tara has competed in the young adult divisions since she was 13 and has competed in the Showcase Routine Division since she was 18. Tara teaches in the states and internationally in places including: France, England, & Russia.
Dirty Water WCS Ft. Saya’s Birthday Dance (No classes)
Happy February everyone!! Unfortunately, there will be no classes this month :( I repeat: NO CLASSES THIS MONTH. However, mark your calendars as we still have a very important event on Saturday, February 8th: we’ll be celebrating Saya turning *REDACTED* years old with a social dance DJed by Saya & Joe!! Keep reading for details and we hope to see you all there ready to celebrate!
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage (the right side is safe after the hours posted on the signs).
SCHEDULE
9:00pm-12:00am WCS social dancing with DJs Saya Suzaki & Joe Mahoney
Dirty Water WCS Ft. Jessie Rosenberg & Leo Cook + Beginner Bootcamp
Swing (dance) into the new year with the first Dirty Water WCS dance of 2025! For our experienced dancers, we’ve got workshops with Jessie Rosenberg & Leo Cook, one of Boston’s top competitive routine couples, followed by social dancing with one of our fabulous local DJs.
We’re also expanding our offerings for new dancers in the new year with our first beginner bootcamp! Please join us for a two-hour intro to west coast swing with Elizabeth Lloyd & Tom Borgese, followed by a pizza party mixer and a guided practice/review session before we social dance the night away.
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage (the right side is safe after the hours posted on the signs).
SCHEDULE
5:00pm-7:00pm Beginner WCS bootcamp with Elizabeth Lloyd & Tom Borgese
7:00pm-8:00pm Beginner bootcamp pizza party & mixer
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS classes with Jessie Rosenberg & Leo Cook
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS bootcamp practice/review session with Elizabeth & Tom
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ TBA
ABOUT JESSIE & LEO
Jessie and Leo are passionate West Coast Swing dancers who bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to their weekly classes. Jessie began her West Coast Swing journey in 2005 with the Caltech Ballroom Club, while Leo discovered the dance in 2015 through a local ballroom studio and never looked back. They met in Montreal in 2018 through JT Swing Teams and have been dancing together ever since. Recently married, Jessie and Leo are currently competing their third Rising Star routine together on the national WCS circuit. As active competitors and travelers deeply immersed in the national West Coast Swing scene, they love the dance for its casual feel, creativity, partnership, and the vibrant community it fosters worldwide.
ABOUT ELIZABETH & TOM
Elizabeth has been dancing since the age of three, starting with ballet and branching out to competitive jazz, hip-hop, and lyrical. She moved to Boston from Minnesota in 2015 to attend Lesley University, where she went on to receive her master’s degree in School Guidance Counseling. Her creativity and joyful smile shine on the dance floor, while her technical discipline and eye for detail make her a sought-after instructor. Elizabeth continues to teach solo dance classes for all ages, dances WCS all over Boston, and is a dedicated cat mom/Instagram manager for her cats, Kingsley & Truffles.
Tom has been dancing west coast swing since 2018, when a friend pressured him into taking an impromptu swing lesson at college. He got hooked that summer, and has been dancing since, joining his college’s swing dance troupe as well as running and teaching the scene in Philly before coming to Boston for school. Tom continues to dance and teach in the Boston scene as well as dance hip hop. Off the floor, you can probably find him either at the gym or at a ramen shop somewhere in Cambridge.
Dirty Water WCS X Dance Boston Holiday Party
The VFW is unfortunately double booked for Dirty Water WCS's usual 2nd Saturday dance and Dance Boston is going on a holiday hiatus at the end of the month, so we're teaming up to bring you all an extra special send-off to 2024! Our staff for the evening features local pros from both dances. Holiday treats will be had; you're welcome to contribute your own too, but this time is just for fun (besides, we all know that Jack or Ryan win every single cook-off). Thank you all for another wonderful year of dancing in the Boston area (including Dirty Water WCS's first full year!)- now let's boogie!
LOCATION
959 Waltham Street, Lexington
Lexington Lodge of Elks
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-8:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS with Anne Fleming & Leo Cook
8:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS with Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew
7:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJs Anne Fleming & Maxwell Thew
PRICING
$30 Intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Student/senior intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Beginner workshop + social dancing
$10 Dance only
Online registrations include a small processing fee to help offset PayPal and Stripe fees
Dirty Water WCS Ft. Anne Fleming
Lucky us: we’ve got another powerhouse teacher to close out the fall! Anne Fleming has been a mainstay throughout the northeast for more than 30 years and is equally talented as both a leader and a follower. You’ll leave her class with better technique, some cool moves, and a smile on your face- guaranteed.
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS classes with Anne Fleming
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Joe Mahoney
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Alli Reese
PRICING
$30 Intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Student/senior intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Beginner workshop + social dancing
$10 Dance only
Online registrations include a small processing fee to help offset PayPal and Stripe fees
ABOUT ANNE
Anne Fleming has been dancing and teaching West Coast Swing, Hustle, and Country Two-Step for over 30 years. Her support of the WCS community has been steadfast since the early days of its development and she herself is one of the most inspiring and engaging teachers in the Northeast. Anne’s classes are well-known for their relaxed sense of fun as well as for her command of the dances she teaches. She is especially skilled at making west coast swing accessible, fun, and friendly for new and experienced dancers alike.
No Dance- Montreal Westie Fest
Montreal Westie Fest is a weekend-long west coast swing event in Montreal, QC, Canada. We’re going, and you should too!
Free Outdoor Dance + Pumpkin fair
Throw it back to the pumpkin fairs of your childhood with cider donuts, gourd-based games, and a raffle (plus dancing, of course) at Fresh Pond Beer Garden. The best part? Entry is free! Everyone is welcome to join in the beginner west coast swing class, then stay for open-air dancing, treats, and more 🎃
Please note: this is NOT an event specifically for children/families. The focus of the event is on social swing dancing amongst adults. It takes place at a beer garden; there will be individuals consuming alcohol and music may include light profanity.
RAFFLE INFO
Raffle tickets are $1 per ticket or $5 per 6 tickets, cash only. Drawing will happen ~7:30pm and ticket holders must be present to win. Prizes include:
50/50 cash prize: 50% of ticket sales for this bucket will go to the winner, and the remaining 50% will be donated to the Elizabeth Peabody House in Somerville
Boston Westie & Dirty Water WCS Beginner Bootcamps
Passes to Boston Swing Labs, Dance Boston, Dancing Fools, & Waterside Westies
Dirty Water WCS pro weekenders: Tara Trafzer (March 2025), Dawn Garrish (April 2025), Melodie Paletta (August 2025)
Grand prize: super pass for all six Boston Westie pro weekenders in 2025 ($900 value)
SCHEDULE
5:00pm-6:00pm Beginner WCS class with Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew
6:00pm-9:00pm Social dancing with DJ Joe Mahoney
~7:30pm Raffle drawing; ticket holders must be present to win
PRICING
FREE beginner class, social dancing, pumpkin fair games and treats
$1 per raffle ticket/$5 per 6 raffle tickets
Price varies for hard cider and other drink specials at the bar
Dirty Water WCS ft. Willow Colson-Wall & Neal Klein
What better way to mark back-to-school season than with a masterclass from the masters themselves, the illustrious Willow Colson-Wall and her partner-in-crime Mr. Dr. Professor Neal Klein (yes, all of those titles are real)? Willow and Neal are two of a lucky few who have had a hand in the growth of nearly all of Boston’s up-and-coming advanced/all star dancers, so when we say you need to be in this class, trust us- you really do.
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS classes with Willow Colson-Wall & Neal Klein
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Heather Lombardi
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Bitson Jean
PRICING
$30 Intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Student/senior intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Beginner workshop + social dancing
$10 Dance only
Online registrations include a small processing fee to help offset PayPal and Stripe fees
ABOUT WILLOW & NEAL
After a few years of running the registration desk at Swingin’ New England, Willow stepped on the floor in 2005 and never looked back. Her extensive background in ballet, contemporary, and modern dance have helped her become a versatile dancer and instructor. Willow is an equally adaptable DJ and always looks forward to playing for her home crowd in Boston. However, her true passion in life is curling up in bed with a giant container of dill pickles and snuggling with her rescue pup, Rodney.
Neal has been dancing since 1979 and has taught over 25,000 people to swing dance! He has been part of the Boston west coast swing scene since the beginning and has had a hand in organizing many beloved dances both past and present. He currently serves as one of the masterminds behind Dancing Fools (sister dance of Dirty Water WCS!). Neal is also an Associate Professor at Lesley University, where he teaches a variety of psychology courses and a west coast swing course. While he holds a doctoral degree in education, don’t call him Dr. Klein- it scares him. Just Neal is fine!
Dirty Water WCS ft. Willow Colson-Wall & Maxwell Thew
Tricks are usually for kids, but this month, they’re for you! Join local all stars Willow Colson-Wall & Maxwell Thew for a special two-hour mini-intensive on ducks, dips, and more at our August dance. Learn to trust yourself, be a trustworthy partner, and execute tricky moves safely! Given the nature of this intensive, we will be closing the doors for class at 7:10pm to ensure all participants receive necessary safety information.
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park in marked resident spots or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS mini-intensive with Willow Colson-Wall & Maxwell Thew (doors close at 7:10pm)
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Joe Mahoney
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Willow Colson-Wall
PRICING
$30 Intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Student/senior intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Beginner workshop + social dancing
$10 Dance only
Online registrations include a small processing fee to help offset PayPal and Stripe fees
ABOUT WILLOW & MAX
After a few years of running the registration desk at Swingin’ New England, Willow stepped on the floor in 2005 and never looked back. Her extensive background in ballet, contemporary, and modern dance have helped her become a versatile dancer and instructor. Willow is an equally adaptable DJ and always looks forward to playing for her home crowd in Boston. However, her true passion in life is curling up in bed with a giant container of dill pickles and snuggling with her rescue pup, Rodney.
Maxwell found west coast swing in 2011 through a college course in his home state of Washington. He also happened to earn a few degrees in music education along the way and can play nine instruments! In 2019, he moved to Boston, where he gets to enjoy the atmosphere and friendliness of the Boston dance community. If you can catch him in a rare moment when he’s not dancing or teaching middle and high school band, Maxwell can whip up a mean chocolate chip cookie or build you a nice table in his wood shed.
Dirty Water WCS ft. Elizabeth & Alex
Happy Fahwth (fourth, for all of you non-native Bostonians)! Keep the fireworks and summer vibes going with a night of dancing, featuring beloved local pros Elizabeth Lloyd & Alex Glover 💃🕺What do you get when you combine a professional dancer and a personal trainer? One heck of an educational class!
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park along the fence or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS classes with Elizabeth Lloyd & Alex Glover
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Dani Darasz
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Joe Mahoney
PRICING
$30 Intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Student/senior intermediate/advanced workshops + social dancing
$20 Beginner workshop + social dancing
$10 Dance only
Online registrations include a small processing fee to help offset PayPal and Stripe fees
ABOUT ELIZABETH & ALEX
Elizabeth has been dancing since the age of three, starting with ballet and branching out to competitive jazz, hip-hop, and lyrical. She moved to Boston from Minnesoooooota (the proper pronunciation) in 2015 to attend Lesley University, where she recently received her master’s degree in School Guidance Counseling. Elizabeth took Neal’s swing dance course her first semester and hasn’t left the floor since. Her favorite part of dancing in the Boston area is always being able to walk in and be greeted by so much smiling and laughter! Elizabeth continues to take solo dance classes in addition to dancing all over the country and being a dedicated cat mom/Instagram manager for her cats, Kingsley & Truffles.
In 2016, Alex eschewed the traditional post-breakup cookie dough diet and instead jumped headfirst into the world of partner dancing to help him recover. He’s no fair-weather friend, though- west coast swing is the new love of Alex’s life. He especially enjoys the passion and good energy that the community brings to all of the local dances. When you can drag him off the dance floor, Alex is the ultimate jock/nerd combo; he’s a personal trainer by day and a massive sci-fi and fantasy geek by night!
Free Dance Under The Stars
Dirty Water WCS and Fresh Pond Beer Garden have partnered up to bring you a summer dance night under the stars! Dancers and non-dancers alike are invited to take part in a free dance lesson by professional instructors, followed by music from our DJs.
Fresh Pond Beer Garden is located in the back part of the parking lot near Staples and Apple Cinemas and offers beer, cocktails and wine, food trucks, games, music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are always welcomed! It is a 0.7 mile walk from Alewife Station and boasts a free parking lot. Learn more about Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm Doors open, grab drinks and food
8:15pm-9:00pm Free beginner west coast swing lesson with TBA
9:00pm-12:00am West coast swing social dancing with DJ TBA
PRICING
Free for all! Dancers are encouraged to purchase drinks and food from Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman Weekender
Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman. In Boston. For the first time in over 15 years. Holy #*%$.
The entire event will likely sell out as we need to be mindful of the fire code at each venue. Register early to guarantee your spot. Dance only passes will be made available if there is enough room and will be capped. If you do not pre-register, you risk being turned away at the door.
FRIDAY @ VFW POST 529 (DAVIS SQUARE)
8:00pm-9:00pm Open level workshop (must know basic WCS)
9:00pm-12:00am WCS social dancing
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park along the fence or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SATURDAY @ CAMBRIDGE MASONIC HALL (PORTER SQUARE)
2:00pm-5:00pm Open level intensive (must know basic WCS)
5:00pm-7:00pm Dinner break
7:00pm-9:00pm Open level workshops (must know basic WCS)
9:00pm-12:00am WCS social dancing
~10:15pm Demo by Jordan & Tatiana
SUNDAY @ MOTA (UNION SQUARE)
12:00pm-3:00pm WSDC advanced/all star intensive (high-level competitive dancers only)
PRICING
Early bird pricing available until April 27th
$160 Full weekend pass
$125 ($110 early bird) Saturday/Sunday full day pass
$85 ($70 early bird) Friday + Saturday evening pass
$65 ($50 early bird) Saturday evening pass
$35 ($25 early bird) Friday evening pass
$100 ($90 early bird) Intensive only
ABOUT JORDAN & TATIANA
Jordan and Tatiana have been partners since 2000, and are 11-Time US Open Classic Division Champions, as well as holding 22 & 18 US Open titles individually. They also are multiple Grand National, NASDE and Classic Division Champions. Their TV and movie appearances include "30 Seconds to Fame", "Star Search", "Good Morning America", "The Polar Express", and "Love N' Dancing". They have earned a great reputation teaching all over the world as Certified Teachers for the Golden State Dance Teachers Association.
Dirty Water WCS ft. Saya & Roberto
Boston Tea Party may have passed, but we always keep the party going around here. Join us for our April dance with two of the most phenomenal dancers in Boston: Saya Suzaki & Roberto Corporan! They blend astonishing creativity with a fierce dedication to technique and we're so excited to have them
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park along the fence or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS classes with Saya & Roberto
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Desirae Vasquez & Matt Davis
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Maxwell Thew
ABOUT SAYA & ROBERTO
Bio coming soon
March Madness J&J Night
Come one, come all and throw your hat in the ring for two fun, all-levels Jack & Jill competitions with fabulous prizes! This year’s J&J night is special for a couple of reasons: not only are we preparing for the return of Boston Tea Party on March 21st-24th, but we also have a special intensive by the master of competitive strategy himself: Joshu Creel! All are welcome in both the intensive and the just-for-fun contests, regardless of competitive experience. Please note that there is NO BEGINNER CLASS THIS MONTH.
SCHEDULE
6:30pm-8:00pm WCS Competition Intensive with Joshu Creel
8:00pm-8:15pm Contest marshaling (when the competitors line up)
8:15pm-9:00pm J&J prelims with DJs Alli Reese & Joe Mahoney
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Alli
~10:00pm J&J spotlight finals with DJ Alli
WCS COMPETITION INTENSIVE
Part I: Intro to a Healthy Competitive Mindset: What is a J&J? (Format, music, partner, scoring); tips and tricks for being your best self in a J&J; setting goals for competition (having fun, personal goals, things you can/can't control)
Part II: Things You Can Control on the Comp Floor: Competitive tactics for all levels and space to practice them; things for both roles to hone to improve competitive results; Timing, Technique, & Teamwork (TTT); myths around TTT; "Leader management," "showing yourself off," and "partnering"; prelims vs. finals
Part III: What the Judges See & How to Train for Results: Competition from the judges' eye; what judges see at different levels
Dirty Water WCS ft. Desirae & Matt
Happy Valentine’s Day! And what better way to celebrate than with long-time lovebirds and local pros Desirae Vasquez & Matt Davis? Bring your friends, bring your boo, or just bring you- we’ll all have a blast dancing together. Desirae & Matt are teaching two intermediate/advanced workshops followed by social dancing until midnight at our new home, the VFW in Davis Square.
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park along the fence or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS classes with Desirae & Matt
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Avery Isaacs
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Joe Mahoney
ABOUT DESIRAE & MATT
As musicians turned dancers, Matt and Desirae were drawn to West Coast Swing because of the opportunity it provides for musicality and expression in yet another way. You can find them traveling the country 15-20 weekends a year to teach, compete, judge, and perform. Entering the 10th year of their dance partnership, they are passionate the Boston WCS community and making core swing technique fun, accessible, and useful for everyone who learns from them.
Dirty Water WCS ft. Alli & Max
Happy 2024! Join us at our new long-term home, the VFW in Davis Square, for a new year of dances with local favorites and national pros. The VFW has offered us consistent availability on the second Saturday, plus it comes with a fabulous bar upstairs and dedicated parking lot right outside the door. Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew are kicking off our first dance of the year with two hours of west coast swing classes, followed by social dancing until the strike of midnight!
We have residential neighbors at this venue who appreciate their sleep and their resident-only parking spots. Please monitor your volume outside of the venue and take care not to park along the fence or on the left-hand side of the garage.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm-9:00pm Intermediate/advanced WCS classes with Alli Reese & Maxwell Thew
8:00pm-9:00pm Beginner WCS class with Jessie Rosenberg & Leo Cook
9:00pm-12:00am Social dancing with DJ Maxwell Thew
ABOUT ALLI & MAX
Alli & Max have been partners in dance and in life since 2018. Both found their love of west coast swing in college; Max in his ballroom club in Washington state, and Alli in Cambridge through an undergraduate course. Alli began dancing shortly after learning to walk and has trained in solo movement on the theatre stage and marching band field for over 25 years. Max is a musician by trade, playing nine instruments and helping hundreds of students discover the joy of music each school year. Together, they provide a balance of energy, technical precision, and humor in their classes that is approachable for dancers of all levels.
No Dirty Water WCS- Happy Holidays!
Deck the halls… just not ours because there are no T-accessible function halls to be had in the month of December. See you all in 2024 at our new home: the VFW in Davis Square!
Rising Star Night
7pm-8pm Intermediate+ WCS workshop w/ Jes Ann & Edem
8pm-9pm Intermediate+ WCS workshop w/ Jes Ann & Edem
8pm-9pm Beginner WCS w/ TBA
9pm-12am WCS social dancing
~10:15pm Rising Star routine performances!
Come see the best of the Northeast perform before they head off to the US Open! NYC-based all-stars Jes Ann Nail & Edem Attikese will teach two workshops before the dance. We’ll take a quick break halfway through social dancing to enjoy performances from Northeast couples who are taking their routines to the US Open just a few short weeks later.
CONFIRMED PERFORMERS
Jessie Rosenberg & Leo Cook- Boston, MA
Jes Ann Nail & Edem Attikese- New York City, NY
(SOLD OUT) Fall Boat Cruise
5:30pm Check in @ Lechmere Canal Park
6pm Set sail!
9pm Arrival
Enjoy a beautiful fall foliage dance cruise along the Charles River with views of Boston and Cambridge. This 3 hour tour is perfect for soaking up all the spectacular fall foliage New England has to offer while dancing to your favorite WCS tunes.
Only 65 boarding passes are available- get yours before they’re gone!
Free Summer Series- The Anchor w/ Jen Deluca
FREE LESSON & DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and The Anchor are teaming up to bring you sunset dances with gorgeous views of Boston this summer! Join us at the Charlestown Navel Yard for a free beginner WCS lesson and DJ’d social dancing. For September, we are thrilled to have champion dancer Jen Deluca teaching for us!
The Anchor’s open-air, courtyard patio boasts comfortable lounge seating, free standing tables, and bar. Enjoy delicious food and beverage options at The Anchor's full bar and kitchen - open daily until 11pm! Learn more about The Anchor.
The Anchor is a 0.2 mile walk from the 93 bus line (Chelsea Street @ Fifth Street stop) and a 1.1 mile walk from North Station. Parking is available in metered street spots or at nearby paid lots.
SCHEDULE
6pm-7pm Beginner WCS lesson with champion Jen Deluca
7pm-9pm WCS social dancing
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
Free Summer Series- Fresh Pond Beer Garden
FREE LESSON AND DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and Fresh Pond Beer Garden have partnered up to bring you a summer dance night under the stars! Dancers and non-dancers alike are invited to take part in a free dance lesson by professional instructors, followed by music from our DJs.
Fresh Pond Beer Garden is located in the back part of the parking lot near Staples and Apple Cinemas and offers beer, cocktails and wine, food trucks, games, music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are always welcomed! It is a 0.7 mile walk from Alewife Station and boasts a free parking lot. Learn more about Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
SCHEDULE
7:00pm Doors open, grab drinks and food
8:15pm-9:00pm Free beginner west coast swing lesson with Elizabeth Lloyd
9:00pm-12:00am West coast swing social dancing with DJ Maria Flores
PRICING
Free for all! Dancers are encouraged to purchase drinks and food from Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
No Dirty Water WCS- go dance with Anne FLEMING
Anne Fleming’s first Saturday dance has been moved to the second Saturday to accommodate New England Dance Festival. We love Anne and hope you’ll join us in supporting her!
Free Summer Series- Fresh Pond Beer Garden
FREE LESSON AND DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and Fresh Pond Beer Garden have partnered up to bring you a summer dance night under the stars! Dancers and non-dancers alike are invited to take part in a free dance lesson by professional instructors, followed by music from our DJs.
Fresh Pond Beer Garden is located in the back part of the parking lot near Staples and Apple Cinemas and offers beer, cocktails and wine, food trucks, games, music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are always welcomed! It is a 0.7 mile walk from Alewife Station and boasts a free parking lot. Learn more about Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
SCHEDULE
7:30pm Doors open, grab drinks and food
8:15pm-9:00pm Free beginner west coast swing lesson with Anne Fleming
9:00pm-12:00am West coast swing social dancing with DJ Bitson
PRICING
Free for all! Dancers are encouraged to purchase drinks and food from Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
Free Summer Series- The Anchor
FREE LESSON & DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and The Anchor are teaming up to bring you sunset dances with gorgeous views of Boston this summer! Join us at the Charlestown Navel Yard for a free beginner WCS lesson and DJ’d social dancing in June, July, & August.
The Anchor’s open-air, courtyard patio boasts comfortable lounge seating, free standing tables, and bar. Enjoy delicious food and beverage options at The Anchor's full bar and kitchen - open daily until 11pm! Learn more about The Anchor.
The Anchor is a 0.2 mile walk from the 93 bus line (Chelsea Street @ Fifth Street stop) and a 1.1 mile walk from North Station. Parking is available in metered street spots or at nearby paid lots.
SCHEDULE
6pm-7pm Beginner WCS lesson with Elizabeth Lloyd & Danielle Johnson
7pm-9pm WCS social dancing with DJ Alli Reese
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
Free Summer Series- The Anchor
FREE LESSON & DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and The Anchor are teaming up to bring you sunset dances with gorgeous views of Boston this summer! Join us at the Charlestown Navel Yard for a free beginner WCS lesson and DJ’d social dancing in June, July, & August.
The Anchor’s open-air, courtyard patio boasts comfortable lounge seating, free standing tables, and bar. Enjoy delicious food and beverage options at The Anchor's full bar and kitchen - open daily until 11pm! Learn more about The Anchor.
The Anchor is a 0.2 mile walk from the 93 bus line (Chelsea Street @ Fifth Street stop) and a 1.1 mile walk from North Station. Parking is available in metered street spots or at nearby paid lots.
SCHEDULE
6pm-7pm Beginner WCS lesson with Willow Colson-Wall & Joe Mahoney
7pm-9pm WCS social dancing with DJ Maxwell Thew
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
Free Summer Series- Fresh Pond Beer Garden
FREE LESSON AND DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and Fresh Pond Beer Garden have partnered up to bring you a summer dance night under the stars! Dancers and non-dancers alike are invited to take part in a free dance lesson by professional instructors, followed by music from our DJs.
Fresh Pond Beer Garden is located in the back part of the parking lot near Staples and Apple Cinemas and offers beer, cocktails and wine, food trucks, games, music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are always welcomed! It is a 0.7 mile walk from Alewife Station and boasts a free parking lot. Learn more about Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
SCHEDULE
7:30pm Doors open, grab drinks and food
8:15pm-9:00pm Free beginner west coast swing lesson
9:00pm-12:00am West coast swing social dancing with local DJs
PRICING
Free for all! Dancers are encouraged to purchase drinks and food from Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
Free Summer Series- The Anchor
FREE LESSON & DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and The Anchor are teaming up to bring you sunset dances with gorgeous views of Boston this summer! Join us at the Charlestown Navel Yard for a free beginner WCS lesson and DJ’d social dancing in June, July, & August.
The Anchor’s open-air, courtyard patio boasts comfortable lounge seating, free standing tables, and bar. Enjoy delicious food and beverage options at The Anchor's full bar and kitchen - open daily until 11pm! Learn more about The Anchor.
The Anchor is a 0.2 mile walk from the 93 bus line (Chelsea Street @ Fifth Street stop) and a 1.1 mile walk from North Station. Parking is available in metered street spots or at nearby paid lots.
SCHEDULE
7pm-8pm Beginner WCS lesson with Desirae Vasquez & Matt Davis
8pm-10pm WCS social dancing with DJ Joe Mahoney
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
Free Summer Series- Fresh Pond Beer Garden
FREE LESSON AND DANCE
Dirty Water WCS and Fresh Pond Beer Garden have partnered up to bring you a summer dance night under the stars! Dancers and non-dancers alike are invited to take part in a free dance lesson by professional instructors, followed by music from our DJs.
Fresh Pond Beer Garden is located in the back part of the parking lot near Staples and Apple Cinemas and offers beer, cocktails and wine, food trucks, games, music, and more. Well-behaved dogs are always welcomed! It is a 0.7 mile walk from Alewife Station and boasts a free parking lot. Learn more about Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
SCHEDULE
7:30pm Doors open, grab drinks and food
8:15pm-9:00pm Free beginner west coast swing lesson with Anne Fleming
9:00pm-12:00am West coast swing social dancing with DJs Maxwell Thew & Alli Reese
PRICING
Free for all! Dancers are encouraged to purchase drinks and food from Fresh Pond Beer Garden.
HEALTH & WELLNESS POLICY
Due to the public nature of the space, the COVID-19 vaccination/testing requirement of our Health & Wellness policy is not in effect for this event as we are unable monitor who joins us.
Neon Night with John Lindo & Patty Vo
7pm-8pm Intermediate/advanced WCS with Patty & John
8pm-9pm Intermediate/advanced WCS with Patty & John
8pm-9pm Beginner WCS with TBA
9pm-12am Social dancing with DJs John Lindo & Papa Joe
ABOUT PATTY
Patty Vo is universally regarded as one of the top female West Coast Swing dancers in the world. She is known for her superb “feel for the music,” creativity, versatility, and especially her dynamism and charisma on the dance floor. Patty is also a highly respected international instructor, judge, and competitor. She has won numerous national competitions and awards, including placing five times at the U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships in multiple divisions.
Patty teaches all over the world. She is an honest, insightful teacher who focuses on technique (centering, musicality, footwork, lead/follow skills, etc.), musicality, timing, creativity, and most important of all, having fun. Her classes are challenging, innovative, and thought-provoking. Her methods have produced some of the best dancers in the USA. Her dance training includes West Coast Swing, Ballroom, Salsa, Jazz, Lyrical, Hustle, Lindy, and Country.
ABOUT JOHN
John Lindo is an International Award-winning West Coast Swing Dance Champion & Instructor. He is a man of style, grace and humor. Above all, he is one of the most joyful advocates of the dance. After beginning in country-western dance in 1992, John quickly made his mark on the West Coast Swing circuit by garnering an astonishing number of awards and championships in Jack-and-Jill and Strictly Swing contests. First Place awards include the U.S. Open, Grand Nationals, and Phoenix Champion of Champions.
John’s mission is to provide superior occasions for all dancers to enjoy themselves. His social dances, workshop/expos and competitive events are a welcoming opportunity to learn, practice and thrive on the dance floor. Any event John participates in is sure to be informative and outrageously fun!
Competitor Intensive with John Lindo & Patty Vo
Patty Vo and John Lindo are bringing their extensive training as competitors and teachers to you! As world-renown dancers will top titles in routine, Jack & Jill, and strictly swing divisions, they know what it takes to make an impression on the competition floor. They’re sharing the top techniques that make both a successful competitor and an excellent social dancer in this three hour intensive. Pre-registration is required, limited to 20 leaders and 20 followers. Students and seniors receive a $10 discount with the code DUCK at checkout.