Mike & Mary have been instrumental in establishing and developing the Lindy Hop and Balboa swing dance scene in Lexington and central Kentucky, and 2023 marks the 22nd year they’ve been promoting Lindy Hop and Balboa.  They consider it a privilege and an honor to contribute to the great tradition of the dances and music of the swing-era.

They strongly believe awareness of and an appreciation for the swing-era as a historical and cultural asset is important for the Lindy Hop and Balboa dancer.  In order to know where you’re going, you have to know where you’ve been!

Some of the highlights of the past 22 years that come to mind:

• Teaching the original swing-era dances, Lindy Hop and Balboa, to literally thousands of people.  It’s a real joy to see the moment when the “light comes on” for a new student; or when a “step, step, rock step” swing dancer takes the challenge to become a Lindy Hopper; or when someone discovers the unique and dynamic nature of Balboa!
• Providing swing dances in Lexington at venues where people can dance to the great music of the swing era.

• 

  Collaborating with the University of Kentucky (UK) School of Music to provide music for big band swing dances from authentic swing-era arrangements.  One of two ensembles provide the music for these events:  (a) the Kentucky Jazz Repertory Orchestra (KJRO), consisting of the finest and most talented faculty, alumni and musicians from Kentucky area colleges and universities; or (b) the UK Jazz Ensemble (UKJE), consisting of the most talented students in the award winning and nationally recognized UK Jazz Studies Program.  The dancers obviously benefit from these events, but so do the musicians as they get a chance to see authentic Lindy Hop and Balboa danced to the great music they play.  Not many (if any) communities the size of Lexington have swing dances with such talented big band orchestra’s providing authentic, swing-era music!

• The establishment of Lindy Hop performance groups to elevate the level of swing dancing in Lexington and central Kentucky.  These performance groups have experienced success at regional and national level competitions and events. And most of those dancers got their start with Mike & Mary and the Hepcats!
• Collaborating with other organizations in Lexington/central Kentucky to bring high quality swing dance events to Lexington, i.e. Swingin’ on Main, Lexington’s annual street dance.  Mike & Mary have assisted with this event for the past 16 years.  Mike is responsible for selecting the band that provides the music, and Mary is one of the judges for the dance contest.
• Sponsoring one day and weekend workshops, some featuring national and regional level Lindy Hop and Balboa instructors.

Once again, thank you for your support of Mike & Mary and the Hepcats, and see you out on the dance floor!

Mike & Mary