My current and past involvement as a West Coast Swing staff member has placed me in nearly every role required to keep an event running smoothly. Over the years, I have served as a host, announcer, ticket taker, DJ, instructor, teacher, and announcer. Each role carries its own responsibilities, pressures, and expectations. While none of these roles alone were overwhelming, there were occasions when I needed to step into multiple positions at once to ensure the event stayed on track. Those moments taught me adaptability and accountability.
Working behind the scenes revealed how much dancers rely on systems they rarely see. Events succeed not just because of talent on the floor, but because of preparation, communication, and follow-through. I learned quickly never to assume that help knows every procedure or is prepared for unexpected changes. Schedules shift, equipment fails, and attendance fluctuates. What matters is how the staff responds.
I worked on the staff of the “Sam’s Town Dance Hall”, “Desert Sands Dance Festival”, “Rhythmic Soles Dance Studio”, and “Famous Friday Dance”. Handling responsibility and conflict became a core leadership skill. I learned not to avoid difficult conversations or delay problem-solving. Addressing issues early prevents resentment and confusion. Letting problems fester is never a winning strategy, especially in community-based environments where trust matters.
One moment that stands out…
One moment that stands out is how intentionally we approached event setup. I live by the mantra, “If it is worth doing, it is worth doing well.” When we created a professional, comfortable, club-like atmosphere, it raised expectations for everyone involved. I noticed that when leadership modeled care and pride in the space, other staff members followed suit. Leadership mattered more than talent in those moments.
This experience shapes how I mentor dancers entering professional or leadership spaces. I help them understand that professionalism, reliability, and awareness extend beyond dancing ability. Understanding infrastructure, what motivates dancers, what creates comfort, and what builds trust, is essential for long-term success. I mentor dancers to be assets to the community, not just participants.
