Michael Faltesek and Casey Schneider

Michael Faltesek and Casey Schneider’s [Class Schedule] [Event Calendar]

Mike and Casey have partnered since early 2006, and have been teaching and performing regularly since. They focus on the roots of lindy hop and jazz dance, and find inspiration from the originators of the dance. Mike and Casey thrive on the spirit of jazz music, letting it guide their creativity and innovation on the dance floor.

As teachers, Mike and Casey's strength lies in their ability to simplify the complex, teach to various levels of dancers simultaneously, and make their students laugh, usually by telling bad jokes. They have over 20 cumulative years of experience with Lindy Hop, authentic Jazz, Charleston, Black Bottom, Tap, and other early jazz dances, making them favorites wherever they teach.

Casey's love of swing dancing began in 1998. Whether social dancing, teaching, or performing, Casey is inspired by the playful spirit of traditional jazz dances and in "raising her voice" as a female dancer. In her teaching, she focuses on developing solid technique and partnering skills as the foundation for developing one's style and sense of musicality. Casey also enjoys competing, with placements or wins at numerous regional and national competitions. She frequently performs with and dabbles in a variety of dance forms with Sister Kate, an all-girl performance group. www.caseyschneider.com.

Mike brings to the dance floor an incredibly diverse social and performance dance talent that includes not only Lindy Hop but also Cakewalk, Black Bottom, Traditional Jazz, Tap, Charleston, Breakaway, Balboa, Big Apple, Blues and many other Authentic Jazz dances.

Mike has been dancing for almost 15 years, in that time he has traveled to instruct, compete, and perform internationally. From Harlem to Los Angeles and all throughout Europe. Mike is well known for his charismatic personality, approachability and passion for the essence of Authentic Jazz dance and music. He possesses an enthusiastic ability to convey ideas and movements explicitly, making him a popular instructor wherever he goes.

Each time he teaches, he leaves a lasting impression on his students.

Mike and Casey join us at Dance Manhattan for the first time in December 2011.