Atahan

How did you start dancing?

My first exposure to Lindy Hop was when I was 16. I started dancing Lindy Hop in Turkey. The reason I wanted to learn was due to an acting play in my high school theater club, we had to make choreography for Benny Goodman’s “ Sing Sing Sing” song. Although we didn't know how to dance, with our high enthusiasm, we convinced the lindyhop teachers to teach some air steps for our choreography. Then I kept continue dancing!

What do you love most about teaching?

I like to play around and teaching is another excuse for me to play. I love the creative process of creating with students, and learning from them.

What does swing dancing mean to you?

For me it is highly social dancing, whose roots coming from jazz music. Which implies there are no right or wrong moves as long as you are having fun!

What’s your favourite jazz song or artist?

My favorite jazz artist is Cab Calloway!

Fun fact or secret talent?

I can touch my nose with my tongue. (It is something that only 10 percent of the human population can do.)