About Lindy Hop

Mikkie began her dance journey in 2013 at Brown University's Swing Club, right here in Rhode Island. Having always enjoyed music of the Swing Era, she participated in one beginner class, fell in love with the community, and never went back. She quickly began branching out to other local scenes such as Providence Swings and attending workshop weekends. Mikkie owes much of her dance knowledge and growth to Daryl Begin and Jen Stout who taught, mentored, and inspired her at both Brown Swing Club and Providence Swings. Soon, she began taking on leadership and teaching roles at Brown Swing Club and later, Providence Swings. In 2022, much of the local Lindy Hop scene in Rhode Island had disappeared due to the pandemic. Mikkie decided to open Lil' Rhody Lindy Hop in the hopes of revitalizing the community that brought her so much joy. As a dancer, Mikkie enjoys classic stylings, creative rhythms, and playful communication. She heavily values the history of Lindy Hop and seeks to build this same appreciation in her students. Mikkie hopes to continue building an inclusive, vibrant community of people who can share in the joy that this wonderful dance can offer. 

Max grew up believing he had two left feet. It wasn’t until 2014 where Providence Swings changed his mind. He was immediately drawn in by the idea of an improvised social dance, where two people bring their own ideas to create something fleeting together. Social dancing to live music is still his favorite part about Lindy Hop. In Providence, he was lucky enough to have been mentored by Daryl Begin and Jen Stout, who taught him the importance of balancing new ideas and historical context. Max likes focusing on fundamentals, breaking down classic steps, and dancing fast! 

Karen was first seen on stage at age 9 performing a tap dance to "Lollipop" in a striped leotard and has been dancing ever since. She discovered Lindy Hop during the Swing craze in 1998 and has never looked back. She has since traveled all over the country and throughout Europe to perform, compete, and teach at international events. She has earned titles competing at events such as Lindy Focus, the Lone Star Championships, the Ultimate Lindy Hop Championships, the Boston Tea Party, and Camp Jitterbug. She feels most honored to have received the first ever "Spirit of Lindy Hop" awards at both Camp Jitterbug in Seattle, WA (2005), and the International Lindy Hop Championships in Washington, D.C. (2010). After first honing her dance skills in Minneapolis, MN, and living all over the country in various small towns, Karen is thrilled to now reside in the Providence-Boston area where she can once again enjoy an active local dance community.

Rhianon started their journey of Lindy Hop after seeing it portrayed in shows and movies and quickly developed a passion for the dance. They love playing with musicality and telling stories through movement. They also enjoy working with new students to feel empowered to play around and explore what the dance can be.