Coach & Choreographer Dawn Blorstad
Dawn has been teaching social and competitive dance in the Washington, DC area for over three decades. She started as a baton twirler at the age of 5, winning the US Title in Dance Twirl at the age of 12. It wasn’t until she hit the local bar scene that she fell in LOVE with couples dancing. Her knowledge in Competitive Country Dance and West Coast swing is extensive: 🏆 7 US Open swing titles in 4 different divisions 🏆 First Masters Country Dance World Champion 🏆 Over 30 Top teacher awards 🤩 As a performer, she has been an opening act for Lonestar, Marty Stuart, Toby Keith, Confederate Railroad, Vince Gill and Reba McIntyre. ⭐ Inducted into the Country Dance Hall of Fame in 2016 ⭐ Inducted into the World Swing Dance Hall of Fame in 2018 📝 Judging 25+ years, Head judge 10+ years around the world. 📣 Choreographed 9 winning U.S. Open routines ❤️ MOM and coach of champion dancer Alexis Garrish and rising talent Taylor Garrish.
Details:
Cost: $100/month per person
Weekly coaching on Wednesdays from 6:30-8pm in Rockville, MD. Guaranteed at least 6 hours of coaching per month.
Team size: up to 12 couples
Q: Can I try the team out before joining?
A: OK, this is a common request, so we’re going to modify the schedule to make that possible. Here it is:
January: submit your application
February: (if you’re a match for the team) join Dawn on Wednesdays for the ‘soft start’ of the season – we think you’ll LOVE it, but if you don’t just let us know by the end of the month
March-Oct: 7-month season (commitment)
Nov: perform at DCSX
Q: What if I need to miss a practice?
A: It is important for the entire team that dancers prioritize attending practice, but things happen. If needed we’ll catch you up on things you missed while you were away, and work with you on whatever unexpected life stuff comes up.
Q: Am I really ready to do this? It looks hard!
A: probably! While this team isn’t for brand new beginners, it is for dancers who know the basics, have experience social dancing, and are committed to working on their dance. No competition or performance experience required (though they do help).
Dawn has been judging and coaching for a long time, she can see your potential and bring it out. If you’re still not sure, reach out to her for a chat, or just submit your application and let Dawn be the judge.
Q: Will this make me a better social dancer?
A: YES! This isn’t just a choreography class – it’s a study group where you’ll work on your connection, timing, and technique in addition to the patterns and tricks you’ll learn as part of the routine. These moves will be lead-follow, so you’ll really be dancing west coast swing and not just performing.
Q: Do I need a partner to audition?
A: Nope! You can choose ‘solo follower’ or ‘solo leader’ when you apply.
OR you can choose to apply as a partnership.
Q: How do I make a video of myself dancing?
A: The easiest way is to ask a friend to record you next time you’re out social dancing. If you’re dancing at Hollywood Ballroom on Fridays just find Casey – she’s happy to help!
Already have a video of yourself dancing? Just send us the link – no need to make a new one.
Q: What if I have another question?
A: Reach out! You can:
Contact Dawn Blorstad OR Casey Moldover OR Dave Moldover on facebook
or
Find Dave or Casey to chat any Friday at Hollywood Ballroom
or
Send an email to dave-at-dancejamproductions.com
