The smell of Spring was in the air as I made my way to the Brand Library on May 16, 2026 to attend the final weekend of the Brand Associates Dance Series, expertly curated by Jamie Nichols. I have attended the dance series in previous years and each time has highlighted vastly different genres and modalities of dance which speaks to Nichols’ commitment to presenting the diverse spectrum of the Los Angeles dance community. This time was no different as the audience gathered atop a hill to watch the energetic LA Swing Dance Posse for an evening of joyful celebration of vernacular jazz dance.
Brand Associates Dance Series – LA Swing Dance Posse – Photo by Jamie Nichols.
With overflowing energy, performers entered the space with gusto dancing through the eras of swing dance. A multi-generational cast with varying experience and physical abilities shared the stage performing partnering and group work that highlighted the way that dance brings people together. As Nichols herself described it, the LA Swing Dance Posse is “real people, doing real dance,” which serves as a reminder that no matter your age, ability, or experience, anyone can participate in the joy of dancing.
Brand Associates Dance Series – LA Swing Dance Posse – Photo by Jamie Nichols.
Traditional movements such as the Charleston, the shim sham, and the shake, rattle, and roll were performed throughout the program. Despite a lack of clarity at times, the overwhelming performance quality from each member of the cast made up for occasional missteps. Between pieces, the charismatic executive director Arthur White and artistic director Chester Whitmore explained the origin, purpose, and time period of the dances performed. These moments were insightful and gave space for the understanding of the significance that jazz dance played in shaping history and culture.
Brand Associates Dance Series – LA Swing Dance Posse – Dancer: Chester Whitmore – Photo by Jamie Nichols.
A highlight of the evening was when artistic director and tap dance legend Chester Whitmore dragged out a tap board and performed a solo titled ‘Chesters Surprise.’ His charisma was the cherry on top of his intricate footwork and expertly performed tap steps such as a single legged wing. Following this tap dance intermission, performers Jermaine Alexander, Rachel Brown, Dany Da Silva, Mandy Fleming, Hunter Gawboy, Lisa Jeffery, Blue Lolan, Phillipe Leibzig, Teresa Malconia, Tomoko Nakajima, Sean Ni, Edward Santiago, Rey Santiago, Karen Torimaru, and Jackie Valmont re-entered the stage with a sweeping energy and fast paced movement.
Brand Associates Dance Series – LA Swing Dance Posse – Photo by Jamie Nichols.
LA Swing Dance Posse has the mission to preserve, promote, and perform vernacular jazz dance. An important feat to pass on the knowledge to the next generation of dancers so that the art form can be used as a vessel for community building. Historically, swing dancing was a tool for escapism from the harshness of the world at large. I found myself pondering how this aspect of jazz dance still rings true today. As I clapped along with the music, I felt relief from the troubles of the world as the dancers brought an honest smile to my face and the faces of those around me. I applaud LA Swing Dance Posse for embarking on the mission to preserve so much more than just the ‘steps’ of jazz dance, but the powerful joy that comes with it.
For more information about the LA Swing Dance Posse, please visit their website.
For more information about the Brand Associates Dance Series, please visit their website.
Written by Rebecca Lee for LA Dance Chronicle.
Featured image: Brand Associates Dance Series – LA Swing Dance Posse – Photo by Jamie Nichols.
