2023 BEST OF THE BEST Event Crew

Featured Guests

Our guests started dancing at ages 3 and 5. Combining their lifetime of knowledge through his background in swing dances and her background in solo dances + West Coast Swing, they have naturally created a unique style of their own, in their teaching, as well as their artistic expression and performances. 

​They are US Open Swing Dance Champions, traveling the world performing, judging, and teaching classes and intensives of all types in the biggest dance conventions. They love sharing their passion for this dance and most importantly, connecting with people on and off the dance floor!

BEGINNERS WEST COAST SWING CRASH COURSE

Nathan Toussaint
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​Nathan has over 25 years of dance experience, will teach the Beginners West Coast Swing Crash Course at Best of the Best on Thursday, September 14th, 2023. Nathan has a wealth of experience in various styles of swing dance and is highly skilled in teaching them. He has danced, taught, and performed in many styles, some of which include Salsa, Lindy Hop, Balboa, and West Coast Swing. With his extensive knowledge and experience, you are sure to have an amazing learning experience in his workshop.

The Crew

The MC - Paul Brotherton
Paul is a seasoned professional in the world of dance, bringing his expertise and passion to every stage. With almost four decades of experience as a dancer, Paul has become a master of his craft, captivating audiences with his unique talent and flair.

For the past two decades, Paul has taken on the role of MC at numerous dance events and balls, where his dynamic presence and magnetic personality elevate the energy of the room. His ability to engage the crowd, build anticipation, and seamlessly transition between performances has earned him a reputation as one of the most entertaining MCs.
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Paul's love for dance shines through in every aspect of his career, from his own performances to his mentorship and guidance of others. With his unparalleled expertise, infectious enthusiasm, and unparalleled ability to connect with both dancers and audiences, Paul continues to make an enduring impact on the world of dance.
JP Masson - Head DJ and Teacher

​Dancing since the age of 5, music and dancing have always been a passion of JP’s. After growing up doing multiple dance styles, at the age of 12, JP was introduced and hooked on West Coast Swing.

​Listening to music daily for hours, JP began to curate WCS specific playlists and soon after developed a love for DJing. For the last 7 years JP has done social and competitive DJing at Australian events and after completing high school has gone on to DJ at WCS events across 4 continents. ​​​​
Emma Collyer - Teacher and DJ

Emma's interest in an array of dance styles and music secured her commitment to West Coast Swing over 10 years ago. She has travelled throughout the world teaching, judging, and performing. She's committed to creating an inclusive environment where dancers can explore their potential and enjoy their movement, connection, and expression.
Zac and Maddy - Teachers

Zac and Maddy are an Australian All-Star couple based in Brisbane. They have travelled nationally and internationally teaching, judging and performing routines in West Coast Swing and are known for their high energy vibe and welcoming nature. They are Co-Directors for Raw Connection and have been a big part of the Australian WCS community for over a decade and love sharing their passion for dance wherever they go!
Michelle Fletcher - Teacher and DJ

After dancing at a young age Michelle enjoys a number of dance styles, and like many, her path to West Coast Swing was through Modern Jive.

Michelle has found teaching over the last 12 years rewarding and enjoyed watching the Sydney community grow. With the key aim of making West Coast Swing fun and easy to learn for everyone!
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Over the last 15 years this passion has led to teaching, performing, judging and attending events throughout the world in the search for West Coast Swing knowledge. More recently, Michelle has added DJ'ing to her West Coast Swing repertoire and enjoys giving people something to be creative with.
Craig Schubert - Teacher and DJ

​Craig started dancing 20 years ago when a friend invited him to a Modern Jive class. Being a great combination of two of his passions - sport and music - he took to it quickly and was soon teaching.

​After about 5 years he discovered West Coast Swing where he fell in love with the expression and creativity and was hooked! He helped to establish the Adelaide WCS scene where he has been teaching for nearly 15 years. Always the student, Craig has dabbled in other styles with Zouk being another passion while also exploring Balboa, Lindy Hop, Blues, Bachata, and Argentinian Tango.
 
Craig is well known as a DJ for WCS! As well as spinning tracks in Adelaide he has DJ’d at events such as BotB, Odyssey, and Simply Adelaide.

OUR SPECIAL GUESTS FOR 2023

Special Guests
Abigail Vogels, Kate McGregor, Keri McLean
Leanne Landels, Raushaniya Maksudova

​​Videography
Allan Dantas

Photography
Judith Rozeboom
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Live Streaming
BOTB Team