MEET THE
TEACHERS
5
INTERNATIONAL
TEACHERS
LINDY HOP
HYUNJUNG CHOI &
RIKARD EKSTRAND
Rikard, based in Stockholm, Sweden, is a longtime member of the legendary Harlem Hot Shots and is renowned for his rhythmic precision, rich understanding of vintage swing styles, and energetic presence both on stage and on the social dance floor. Together, Hyunjung and Rikard combine authenticity, creativity, and infectious energy, inspiring dancers around the world with classes that emphasize rhythm, connection, individuality, and the cultural roots of Lindy Hop.
SOLO JAZZ
Daniil Nikulin
Daniil Nikulin is an internationally recognized jazz dancer, Lindy Hop artist, choreographer, and teacher known for his exceptional musicality, creativity, and distinctive movement style. Daniil began his dance journey with boogie-woogie before diving deeply into solo jazz and Lindy Hop, quickly becoming a winner of numerous international competitions across Europe and the United States. His dancing blends authentic jazz roots with influences from ballet, locking, and other contemporary forms, creating a style that is both technically refined and uniquely expressive.
Having taught and performed in more than 20 countries, Daniil is celebrated not only for his artistry and dynamic stage presence, but also for his thoughtful teaching approach, inspiring dancers to explore rhythm, individuality, and the joy of improvisation.
LINDY HOP
URSULA HICKS & FELIPE BRAGA
Ursula Hicks and Felipe Braga are internationally recognized Lindy Hop and vernacular jazz dancers, teachers, and performers known for their high-energy, musical, and deeply engaging approach to social dance. Ursula is a highly experienced educator with a strong foundation in ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary dance, holding a B.A. in Dance Studies from Texas Woman’s University and having taught and performed extensively across the United States and Europe; she is widely appreciated for her clarity in teaching, musical sensitivity, and ability to inspire dancers of all levels. Felipe Braga, originally from Brazil, is celebrated for his explosive charisma, rhythmic precision, and theatrical background, which includes acting and musical experience that inform his expressive movement and dynamic teaching style. Together, they bring a powerful combination of technical depth, playfulness, and cultural awareness to the dance floor, creating classes and workshops that emphasize connection, improvisation, and the joyful spirit of Lindy Hop.
LIVE MUSIC
FRIDAY & SATURDAY BAND
HOP'SH BAM CONNECTION
BELGIUM
The Hop’Sh Bam Connection is a Belgian swing and hot jazz band known for its driving energy, dance-friendly repertoire, and strong connection to the European Lindy Hop scene. Led by trumpeter and vocalist Marie-Anne Standaert, the ensemble brings together experienced jazz musicians from Belgium who blend classic swing, hot jazz, and rhythm-and-blues influences into a powerful, highly rhythmic sound designed for dancers. Their performances are often described as lively and immersive, inspired by the spirit of the 1930s and 1940s jazz tradition, with a modern, high-voltage stage presence that keeps both social dancers and concert audiences engaged. Frequently featured at swing festivals and dance events across Europe, the band is especially appreciated for its groove, responsiveness to dancers, and ability to create an authentic “jam session” atmosphere on the dance floor.
