Thank you for another great year! Surveys going out soon!
Join us for the 10th Anniversary of Hot Night Fusion Weekend!
There will be daytime workshops and nightly social dances. Whether you want to deepen your experience with partnered connection or incorporate crossover influences into your current style, Hot Night Fusion Weekend has it all.
Classes will be in various fusion topics and dance styles including (but not limited to) blues, tango, zouk, micro, connection, and more!
Our DJs and musical acts will play music designed for crossover/fusion dancing, allowing you to play with a variety of dance styles and techniques and creating space for different dance backgrounds to connect on the dance floor.
Join us for an unforgettable weekend in the Mile High City this September!
RSVP to our Facebook event for live updates! CLICK HERE
Tickets
ONLINE SALES ARE CLOSED BUT ALL TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR!
We accept cash and card.
Hot Night Fusion Weekend is run in conjunction with Lindy on the Rocks and the Denver Jazz Festival. An All Access Pass gains you attendance to all events at HNFW, LOTR, and DJF!
Due to ticketing platform fees and restrictions, as well as safe spaces policies, and to prevent scalping, we do not provide refunds nor resale of passes to others. In the event you cannot attend, we will provide credit good towards any CMDance event valid for two years.
2024 INSTRUCTORS
KARA FABINA & JOE DEMERS
Kara Fabina is an esteemed international dance instructor based in Colorado Springs, with a dynamic career spanning over three decades. Since 2005, she has been teaching and competing in multiple dance styles including ballet, hip-hop/urban dances, jazz, swing, and blues across the globe. Kara's extensive background includes a BA in Dance and Psychology, as well as curriculum development for multiple communities and non-profits. Her classical training is complemented by her involvement of running an all-female breakdancing crew, and her performances have graced arenas such as Mountain Dew Extreme Sports events, an MTV Brazil music video, the Kennedy Center, and numerous national stages.
Kara's teaching philosophy emphasizes deep connection with one’s partner, a profound engagement with the music, and intentional expression in dance. She is renowned for her choreography and competitive achievements, and she passionately explores the rich history and culture of each dance style. As a dedicated educator, Kara is committed to preparing the next generation of dancers to uphold and celebrate valuable dance/cultural traditions.
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Joe DeMers is a Fusion, Blues and Lindy Hop instructor from Denver, CO. He has toured the world teaching and performing from South Korea to France, Australia, Israel and all over the US. His dancing is a lovely culmination of multi-genre dance aesthetics, dynamic shapes, soft close embrace connection, and Frame Matching. Frame Matching is a codified framework of partner-dance connection explained by changes in posture, tone, tension, energy and direction of energy (ΔpTed). He is a powerhouse instructor masterfully engaging all-level dancers in class, leaving them feeling focused, guided, included, and encouraged.
Mark Carpenter
Mark is an international Fusion instructor, dj, and organizer hailing from California. When he is not traveling he is based out of the SF Bay Area, where started the Fusion Dance Academy. His social dancing career started with Lindy & Blues in 2005, and he has since studied Tango, WCS, and a dozen other dances. He has been teaching since 2006, much of that focused on the Fusion scene with its emerging forms and conventions, teaching workshops all over the world (and in two languages). He is at the forefront of shaping what Fusion is and what it can become. He has organized multiple events in the United States, most notably & All That Jazz, the SLO Exchange, and Fireside Fusion. Mark is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and exploration of both Fusion and continually strives to make the impossible look easy, and the easy look impossible.
flora silberman
Dance has always been a vital part of Flora’s life, from improvising and choreographing since her childhood, to continually discovering that learning how to dance means learning how to live! Flora has explored many movement disciplines —including contemporary, contact improv, jazz, and West Coast Swing. Her years of experience with the Feldenkrais Method and Gaga Movement Language, in particular, have made her the embodied, playful, and versatile dancer that she is.
laura freeman & saraH Bella
Laura and Sarah share a passion for community building through dance. They believe in Tango not only as a beautiful and intellectual art form to study in-and-of itself, but also in Tango as a medium to grow oneself and one's relationships with others. Together, they share a combined 20 years studying Tango in some of the largest U.S. communities - New York and San Francisco- as well as in Buenos Aires. In Denver, they have taught weekly series as Maria Empanada and The Denver Scool of Social Dance, and also taught at this year's Denver Does Tango festival. All their classes are switch role classes.
ally Yancey
Ally is a body geek and a movement addict. She's been dancing since she could walk, but discovered the world of partner dancing first in 2004 when she fell in love with Lindy Hop. She found herself obsessed with Blues by 2006, and since then she's gone on to practice several other dance and movement studies including Tango, West Coast Swing, contemporary, hip hop, house, aerial silks, pole dance, and the Alexander Technique. She has taught Blues and Fusion on the West Coast since 2007, internationally for a decade, and is a certified Contemporary Alexander Technique instructor.
Over the years of dance exploration, Ally has developed a keen fascination with the design and mechanics of coordination in the human body, and now enjoys teaching all of her classes through the lens of body discovery. Her classes are full of geekery—to her, curiosity, fascination, and silliness are the bedrock of an effective (and enjoyable) learning environment. Her passion is to not only teach people how to dance technically, but to simultaneously engage with their bodies playfully, creatively, and with deeper understanding.
Rachel Leigh Farley
Rachel Leigh Farley is a progressive educator, school leader, and dancer. Specializing in social dances including Brazilian Zouk and Lindy Hop, she guides young people and adults through workshops that leave students more self-aware, creative, and collaborative. As Director of the Denver Zouk School and organizer of the Denver Zouk Marathon, Rachel has invested in her community by providing access and opportunity to experience the transformative power of social dance. Website: RachelLeighDance.com
Arielle, Kelly, and Brendan
”The pearling Principle”
Brendan Patrick McGlynn and Arielle co-founded The Pearling Principle, an interdisciplinary Collective with a flexible roster of like-minded collaborators, featuring dance, fashion & costume design, music, visual arts, and art modeling. They are dedicated to creating their own opportunities for inspired art-making in both traditional and unconventional settings. Their remarkable and dynamic partnership is rooted in the Fusion dance genre, synthesizing their diverse dance backgrounds (which collectively include acroyoga, ballet, ballroom, blues, capoeira, contact improv, contemporary, flamenco, international folk, hustle, jazz, kizomba, latin, modern, parkour, swing, tango, tap and zouk!) to create a broad spectrum between social and concert dance.
In addition to exploring and performing together, they also enjoy teaching workshops on such subjects as communication & connection, artistry & creativity, rhythm & flow, and how to build a successful dance dialogue between partners of diverse backgrounds. Their goal is to liberate your social dancing and create a dancerly conversation between partners with a broader range of dynamics, movement quality and responsive ideas. Arielle and Brendan (aka DJ Lustre) cohost The Pearl Dive, NYC’s most eclectic and vibrant monthly Fusion dance social, with Andrea Giammattei (aka DJ GiaSoul). Visit www.Pearling.org/explore and follow @ThePearlingPrinciple on FB/IG to connect!
This weekend at Denver’s Hot Night Fusion exchange, Arielle & Brendan will be joined by Collective member and longtime collaborator Kelly Lynne Epstein at this special workshop featuring multi-partnering techniques for trios, quartets, moretets and large-group formations. Using familiar concepts from various dance forms, these three dance revolutionaries will help participants explore concrete ways to expand and modify their techniques and material in order to develop a dynamic connection with more than one person at a time!
A'lan abruzzo
With over 20 years of experience as a dance instructor, A'lan specializes in close-embrace dance and has honed his skills in the realms of Blues, Fusion, Tango, and Micro. A celebrated figure in the national fusion scene, he frequently travels across the US to teach dance and DJ for events. A'lan's classes place a strong emphasis on connection, consent, safety, clear communication, and fostering shared experiences.
Event Policies
For general questions about CMDance event policies, please contact events@cmdance.org
When you register for any CMDance event, you agree to the terms and conditions on this page and any additional terms and conditions referenced from this page. CMDance reserves the right to update these terms and conditions at any time without notice.
By signing up, attending, and/or participating in dance classes, social dances, or any event or program, current or future, organized by CMDance at any location, you hereby agree to the following:
Refunds and Transfers
For safety and security reasons, due to the fact that there is tiered ticketing prices, and events typically sell out, there are no refunds or transfers to other individuals, meaning you can not sell your pass if you are no longer attending. Contact the event organizers to get credit good for two years towards any CMDance events. After two years, the expired pass will be considered a donation to our non-profit organization.
If you have registered for an event and can no longer attend, you must email us at events@cmdance.org to request a credit. Credit is usually given for the full amount of the pass purchase price and is good towards any yearly national event. Contest registrations cannot be credited or refunded or transferred to another person. Prize passes are non-transferable nor sellable.
In very rare cases, a refund may be considered, but fees will be deducted as the ticketing and processing fees charged by the platforms and banks are not refundable for any reason.
INJURY WAIVER AND MEDIA RELEASE
I recognize that dancing requires physical exertion that may be strenuous and may cause physical injury and am fully aware of the risks and hazards involved. I have explained these risks to any minors who will accompany me.
I represent and warrant that I and any minors I sign up and/or accompany are physically fit and have no medical condition that would prevent full participation in the dance classes, dance parties, or any event or program.
In consideration of being permitted to participate in the dance classes, dance parties, or any event or program, I agree to assume full responsibility for any risks, injuries, or damages, known or unknown, which I, or the minors I sign up and/or accompany, might incur as a result of attending and/or participating.
I authorize CMDance to use any photo or video in which I or any minors I sign up and/or accompany may appear, for all promotional and commercial uses and I waive any rights of compensation or ownership.
In consideration of being permitted to attend and/or participate in the dance classes, dance parties, or any event, I knowingly, voluntarily, and expressly waive any claims against CMDance, its partners, staff, employees, volunteers, independent contractors, for injury or damages that I or any minors I sign up and/or accompany may sustain, or anything else, as a result of attending and/or participating.
I acknowledge that CMDance, its partners, staff, employees, volunteers, independent contractors, cannot be held responsible for any loss or theft of my belongings and/or property, at all locations, and that I am solely responsible for them.
I agree to abide by the CMDance Code of Conduct or risk expulsion from the event.
ACCEPTANCE OF RISK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY
By participating in activities and events organized by CMDance I agree to abide by the CMDance policies or risk expulsion from the event.
I acknowledge that there are risks associated with my participation in any CMDance event. This waiver, release, and other representations and covenants set forth herein are given in consideration for CMDance permitting me to participate in any CMDance event. Therefore, without limitation, I understand that I could contract a communicable disease which could result in a serious medical condition requiring medical treatment in a hospital or could possibly lead to death.
On behalf of myself and my heirs, successors and assigns, I knowingly and freely, assume all such related risks, both known and unknown, relating to my participation in any CMDance event, and I hereby forever release, waive, relinquish, and discharge CMDance, along with its officers, agents, employees, or other representatives, and their successors and assigns, from any and all illness related claims, demands, liabilities, rights, damages, expenses, and causes of action of whatever kind or nature, and other losses of any kind, whether known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen, (collectively, “Damages”) as a result of my participation in any CMDance event, including but not limited to personal injuries, death, disease, or property losses, or any other loss, and including but not limited to claims based on the alleged negligence of CMDance. I further promise not to sue CMDance or its officers, agents, employees or other representatives, and agree to indemnify and hold them harmless from any and all damages resulting from my contraction of any communicable disease.
CODE OF CONDUCT
CMDance aims to ignite a passion for dance and music in our community. To fulfill our mission, we strive to provide a safe place for each of our attendees to learn and enjoy, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, religion, or range of abilities. We work to foster a culture of inclusion that celebrates diversity, promotes the dignity of life and mutual respect, and advances authentic, multi-cultural interactions and collaborations.
CMDance reserves the right to refuse service to, or revoke access to anyone we determine is threatening this safe, inclusive environment. We comply with Colorado laws and work closely with our cultural peers, community partners, and legal counsel to enact best practices.
Additionally, no weapons are allowed at any CMDance events, regardless of carry permits.
CMDance is dedicated to providing a fun, safe, and comfortable event experience for everyone, regardless of age, disability status, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, physical appearance, dance ability, body size, race, or religion (or the lack thereof). In order to foster respect for the comfort and boundaries of others, we will not tolerate harassment in any form, in person, or online. Sexual language, imagery, and invitations in social situations are not appropriate within any event-managed space, including dances, workshops, competitions, and online media.
Safe and inclusive behavior extends to the dance floor. Please do not offer unsolicited advice to fellow dancers either in class or on the social dance floor. Please use your full range of senses on the dance floor to avoid collisions and injuries. It is every dancer’s responsibility to be aware of their own and their partner’s movement and position, as well as the movement and position of the dancers surrounding them, in order to avoid all forms of dangerous contact.
Please be respectful to both event staff and hotel staff, even if you are experiencing a personal frustration. Without the goodwill of these individuals, a smoothly functioning event is impossible.
Consequences
People who pose a threat to other dancers’ safety and/or other dancers’ comfort are not welcome at CMDance events.
Harassment includes, but is not limited to, language or behavior that is bullying, abusive, demeaning, discriminating, mocking, intimidating, threatening, offensive, disruptive, or otherwise unwelcome or inappropriate in nature.
Unsafe behavior includes, but is not limited to, dancing while intoxicated, appearing intoxicated in a manner that interferes with other attendees’ comfort or enjoyment of the event, intentionally or unintentionally dancing in a way that is harmful or uncomfortable for your partner or surrounding dancers, creating disturbances, and/or interfering with the sleep or health of other attendees.
Potential attendees who have been in violation of CMDance’s policies in the past, or who have been in violation of similar policies at other swing dance events or in other swing dance communities in the past, may be notified prior to the event that they are not welcome at the event at the organizers’ discretion. Attendees at the current event violating these rules may be sanctioned or expelled from the event without a refund at the discretion of the event organizers.
All CMDance event attendees, instructors, staff, and volunteers are expected to comply with the code of conduct and local, state, and federal laws. We reserve the right to take prompt action in response to violations which may include warnings, notification of denial of entry to the event, expulsion from the event without a refund, and involving local law enforcement.
Attendees asked to stop any harassing or unsafe behavior are expected to comply immediately.
If you have any concerns, contact a member of the event staff immediately and we will take appropriate action which may include contacting safety staff, event organizers, or local law enforcement as needed. The organizers of the CMDance events pledge to treat these sensitive matters with confidentiality and to prioritize the safety and comfort of attendees whenever possible.
Health Guidelines: The CDC, WHO, and CDPHE currently have no public health orders in place. If this changes, CMDance will update all events to follow recommendations.
The dances are indoors. Vaccines and masks are optional. If you feel unwell, please consider testing, masking, and/or not attending. If you have any questions please contact events@cmdance.org
2024 Class Details
Mark & ALLY’s Classes:
More for Less: How to Learn Moves Better
A lab-style workshop where we practice watching and learning more-and-more complex moves or sequences with less-and-less instruction. Get good at picking up moves on the dance floor, from videos, or from every class you’ll take moving forward. We’ll also give tips for how you can practice these moves during a class, on the dance floor, and be the best learning partner you can be.
Honing Your Style & Cleaning Up Your Dance Aesthetic
A personalized class centered around individual feedback! We will cover topics such as improving your posture sustainably, clarifying your arm and leg shaping, practicing more precise footwork, etc. We will also explore how to use video in a targeted, useful way to assist you in your styling goals without self deprecating.
Rhythm Playground
Take your rhythm repertoire to the next level by playing hard for a whole hour of dance recess. Built out in rotating stations, this class will stretch your mind and body with games drilling a variety of rhythmic structures (from a wide range of dance styles) and challenges to build your own rhythms on the spot. Come ready to sweat a little, laugh a lot, and walk away with several new embodied rhythmic variations ready to throw down on the dance floor.
Smoothstepping (Intermediate+)
From its roots in ballroomin' blues and tango, Smoothstepping is a buttery dance that stretch and adapts to fit so much music. We'll be exploring this fusion idiom dance at a quick pace, learning moves and sequences to expand our dance reach. Some experience in smoothstepping, ballroomin' blues, tango, kizomba, or another close-embrace progressive dance recommended.
Kara & joes’s CLasses:
Frame Matching 101
Frame Matching is a call and response concept of connection. Learn the basics of how changes in posture, tone, tension, energy, and direction of energy (ΔpTed) can help you more deeply understand the connection between you and your partners.
Spins and Turns
Techniques for leading and following spins and turns in general partner dance techniques. Work on clean preps, turning techniques for all roles, and exits.
Advanced Frame Matching
This class is meant to challenge and deepen your application of Frame Matching in Fusion Dance. We’ll start with linear and rotational tension-release techniques, sprinkle in push and pull techniques, and combine it with applications of tone.
JOE’S CLASS:
Playful and connective moves to level up your dancing.
Saturday pre-dance lesson.
Rachel’s Classes:
Connection + Embrace
Practice creating a traveling flow with a clear embrace. Become more aware of tension in your body and practical tools to release that tension when desired. Learn the tools to create a comfy dance hug.
Brazilian zouk for Fusion I
Learn the fundamental footwork and body mechanics of Brazilian Zouk. Walk away with an embodied understanding of the rhythm and several basic formations including travel step, lateral, and simple turns.
Brazilian zouk for Fusion II
Learn the fundamental footwork and body mechanics of Brazilian Zouk. Walk away with an embodied understanding of the rhythm and several basic formations including travel step, lateral, and simple turns.
Spirals + Flow
What are the mechanics of Brazilian Zouk Head Movement? How do we lead and follow it safely? This class will explore the 3 types of head movement as a solo practice, and then will practice gentle entrances and exits in partnership.
flora ’s Classes:
Quality of Movement
A playful exploration through a wide range of solo movement possibilities, where dancers will discover relationships between their body parts and deepen their connection to the floor.
Seamless Switching
Conversation through Movement: What does it mean to have a good conversation? How can you “listen” to what your partner is saying with their movement? How can you respond appropriately? Dancers will explore various ways of listening and responding to a partner, including call and response, mirroring, weight sharing, and more!
laura & sara’s Classes:
Find your middle: Musical and Asynchronous Weight Transfers
Practice connecting with precision to your partner’s leading and trailing leg as one or both of you transfers weight. We will use this connection to enable asynchronous steps and new musical possibilities.
Tango Spirals: Pivots & Boleos
Learn the body mechanics of internal spirals to rebound pivots and create opportunities for free leg expression, with a focus on low and high boleos.
Arielle, Kelly, and Brendan’s Class:
Beyond the Binary
Learn fun, concrete exercises to make your dances with multiple partners more connected, artful, comfortable and creative. -Experience the dynamic group partnering dance we call the floating mosaic.
A'lan ’s Class:
Buttery Micro Basics
Your gateway to mastering the fundamentals of micro dancing, where every subtle movement and breath synchronizes to create a profound connection. This class is designed for dancers who want to explore the nuances of micro-interaction, focusing on intentional weight shifts, synchronized breathing, and maintaining a deep, continuous connection with your partner. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned dancers looking to refine their technique, this session emphasizes the importance of subtlety and precision in dance. Join us to discover how these essential skills serve as the foundation for a truly immersive and connected dance experience, setting the stage for more advanced micro-dance explorations.
NEW this year! Official theme nights!
Nightly contests! Win free merch!
Themes are promoted across both Lindy on the Rocks & Hot Night Fusion Weekend so join the collab!
FRIDAY NIGHT
Garden Party! This one is a bit cheeky since we are in Colorful Colorado! Make your own spin on it but peep the suggestions below. ;) Flowers, Gnomes, “Weeds”, Fairies, Vines, “Shrooms”, Bees, ETC.
SATURDAY NIGHT
Emerald Green! for Lindy on the Rocks 20th year anniversary! It’s also Hot Night Fusion Weekend’s 10th year, which is Diamond, if you want to sneak that into your ‘fit!
Sunday Night
Wild Things! We love us some animal prints but also just something wild! Keywords: zoo, safari, animal prints: cheetah, zebra, giraffe, leopard.
NEW for 2024! 10 year Hot Night Fusion Weekend anniversary merchandise! Crop tops, tanks, and tees!
The Curtis Hotel
1405 Curtis Street Denver, Colorado 80202 USA
The Curtis Hotel is right across the street from the Denver Performing Arts Complex and just two short blocks from the 16th Street Mall, putting Denver’s best shopping, entertainment, and attractions just steps away. Inside, you’ll find cartoons playing in our retro-chic lobby and an amazing art collection.
Parking: There is metered street parking available, as well as a parking garage and lot (available all day) within 2 blocks of the Opera House. Parking garages and lots start at $12/day. Parking meters are free on Sundays.
What’s happening here:
All Fusion Classes
Fusion Dances Friday Main & Late, Saturday Main & Late, and Sunday Main
Sunday Twilight Swing Dance with Live Music by Jeremy Mohney & His Band
Accommodations for out-of-town attendees
The Studio Loft at Ellie Caulkins Opera House
1400 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80202
The Studio Loft is an beautiful event space with a cathedral ceiling, exposed brick, warm-colored walls, and a spacious wood dance floor. This venue has vast room, a bar, and plenty of seating.
Parking: There is metered street parking available, as well as a parking garage and lot (available all day) within 2 blocks of the Opera House. Parking garages and lots start at $12/day. Parking meters are free on Sundays. If you are staying at the Curtis, they have discounted overnight parking available to purchase during booking.
What’s happening here:
Denver Jazz Festival Entertainment
Lindy on the Rocks Main Dances
Lindy on the Rocks Contests
Sunday Late Night Fusion Party
The Mercury Cafe
2199 California Street Denver CO, 80205
What’s happening here:
Shimmy Shakin’ Blues Event Kick-Off Party!
Thursday, September 12th
Live music by MJ & the Side Gig!
MUSICAL ACTS
t3chnobear
t3chnobear has been immersed in the rhythm and movement of fusion music for fifteen years. His sound is a journey blending sonorous sub-bass with ethereal melodies creating a dynamic and varied experience. Driven by a deep passion for understanding how music speaks the language of dance, t3chnobear channels this knowledge into his own musical creations, exploring new sonic landscapes with every performance.
Laughing Matters
GREETINGS! My name is Josh. I make noise. I produce a brand of original tunes known as “Laughing Matters” whose sound can only be described as the sweet hot nectar of genre-hopping sound-candy thwomp-sauce with melted chocolate and extra cuddles. Due to the awesomeness of friends and fans like you, I have been lucky enough to play these tunes all over the world, on a life-long mission to wiggle the booties of the galaxy. Thank you forever and always for your love and inspiration! I am excited to see you on the dance floor!
Adin Van Duyne
Music has been a lifelong passion for Adin so it made sense that dance would eventually follow, the two being so intertwined. Developing a passion for dance brought with it a desire to create music for dancers. Using some pretty amazing technology and impeccable timing, Adin weaves layers of rhythm and melody together in the moment that will draw you in and call you to move
DJs
violet YANCEY
Originally a Lindy Kid™, Violet fell hard for Fusion at the first house party they went to. A long time audio nerd, they skillfully craft sets that enthrall dancers while highlighting their unique style. From lindy-able hip-hop to gooey micro, Violet’s DJ’ing is characterized by its diversity of sound, impeccable vibes and seamless transitions.
REN ENBY
Hi, my name is Ren. I've been told my sets have a perfect combination of rhythm and emotion. I'm a fan of low tone moody vibes that drop your heart rate, but keep your feet moving. Excited to bring the beats.
dj way
Julia Way (aka DJ WAY) fell in love with social dancing in 2003, progressed through Lindy hop, Blues, fusion, and Brazilian Zouk, and started DJing 10 years later. Since then, she has been found spinning tunes wherever and whenever she can along with organizing events for her local Denver Zouk community. From sheets of ice high in the Rocky Mountains, to geodesic domes perched on precipices, to the ballrooms of New York City, she is determined to find those songs that make people jump up and dance. So get ready for some chunky beats and funky treats for your dancing feets.
DJ Kadence
(Sharon Koon) As a dancer and DJ for over 20 years, DJ Kadence has curated a trademark style that is bass-laden, lush, emotional, and original, often creating her own edits and mashups.
MARK CARPENTER
BIO PENDINGMark is an international Fusion instructor, dj, and organizer hailing from California. When he is not traveling he is based out of the SF Bay Area, where started the Fusion Dance Academy. His social dancing career started with Lindy & Blues in 2005, and he has since studied Tango, WCS, and a dozen other dances. He has been teaching since 2006, much of that focused on the Fusion scene with its emerging forms and conventions, teaching workshops all over the world (and in two languages). He is at the forefront of shaping what Fusion is and what it can become. He has organized multiple events in the United States, most notably & All That Jazz, the SLO Exchange, and Fireside Fusion. Mark is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and exploration of both Fusion and continually strives to make the impossible look easy, and the easy look impossible.
dj Darkstar
(Emilio Estevez) DJ Darkstar has been a DJ for 20+ years and has DJd many different events across the country and the world! He is grounded in playing music that is diverse in sound and culture to help you find new ways to explore your dance. Dance is a conversation...
ally Yancey
Ally began their love affair with DJing Fusion at house parties in 2007, and has been obsessed ever since. From local weekly venues in PDX to exchanges along the West Coast and throughout Europe, they have found a satisfaction behind the DJ booth that's become quite special to them. They are always seeking to find just the right song that, in a moment, can turn dancers into wild things—roaring their terrible roars and gnashing their terrible teeth and rolling their terrible eyes and showing their terrible claws.
A’lan Abruzzo
DJ A'lan's journey behind the decks began in the vibrant swing and blues venues of San Francisco, quickly ascending to the role of the first music coordinator at Shades, a seminal venue in the city. His breakout moment came at the Portland Fusion Exchange, catapulting him onto the national scene, where he has since graced nearly every major national-level weekend event. With 18 years of DJing experience across Blues, Fusion, West Coast Swing, and Tango, A'lan brings a rich understanding and a unique musical perspective to every dance floor. Dancers describe his sets as transformative journeys, skillfully blending the soulful depth of traditional dance genres with the lively pulse of modern beats, creating a dynamic, emotional, and deeply engaging atmosphere that invites continuous dance and connection.
Kara Fabina
One thing that you can count on from this DJ is a vast understanding of genres. Because of her background in various dance styles, Kara (she/her) brings a depth of musical knowledge appropriate for dancing. Her loves vary from House to Funk, Old School Hip Hop, Vintage Jazz, Blues and Soul. She has a not so secret adoration for mashups, and has even dabbled in beat production and mixology. With a desire to be a jill of all trades, she began Dj’ing at house parties in 2011. Since then she has gone on to DJ at local dance venues and events throughout the country. Based in Colorado Springs, she works to provide dancers with a variety of blues, swing and soul music in her sets.
DJ Volter
DJ ⚡Volter (Kyle) discovered partner dance via Lindy Hop ,Blues ,in Orlando, Florida in 2012, and from then on was hooked! He set about learning as many styles as possible and became obsessed with the music and started DJing also! While also cofounding Orlando's own fusion scene, ⚡Volter has served as a traveling DJ all over the continent from coast to coast physically and virtually, weaving musical adventures and soundscapes that tug at dancers’ inner minds and coaxes them to play and connect with the music and the energy such that they can't help but move to the tunes- and the thunder....
Cricket Neiss
There are two wolves inside Cricket: one loves dark beats and head bangers, the other loves late night vibes that are meant to keep you up way past your bedtime. A born and raised Seattleite, Cricket has traveled all across the country dancing and collecting music for the last decade to curate a magnificent blend of brain-itching music mixed with a healthy dash of chaos.
Tony Sciscio
Tony (Seattle, He/Him) has spent over a decade in the fusion scene traveling across the country to hear, record, and create moments of musical magic (MoMM). He tends to play variety and sometimes hits themes/moods, but in every set you can always expect realms of familiarity, inspiration, collaborative chaos, and throwdowns. He likes to bring music that provides comfort and play for partner dances, while also encouraging more solo dancing, cyphers/jams/battles, and provides more space for creatures and clowns to come out.
DJ Moose
Moose (he/him) started DJ’ing in 2023 shortly after jumping headfirst into dance with swing and fusion. Since then, he has become known across the state for employing all manner of music in eclectic, tailored variety; lovingly crafting fresh, fun, and fluid collections for dancers’ delight!
Nikki Fleming
People say Nikki dances like she has no bones, and she likes to think she DJ's the same way: fluid without being catered to any clear "style" and no limits to what dance you can bring to the music.
Liliana Vogh
Liliana started fusion dancing back in 2016 in Pittsburgh and it has continued to be her favorite style as her life carried her to dozens of scenes across the country from the east coast to the middle of the Pacific. She got her first experience DJing for the cozy blues/fusion community on O’ahu, Hawai’i, and now lives in Aurora enjoying the wonderful dance scene of the Denver area. She strongly favors the gooey and powerful rhythms and melodies of songs that bring out the uniqueness of the evolving fusion aesthetic.
Jaclyn Rising
Jaclyn is a Colorado Native and known for being a "Jac"-of-all-trades. She is a versatile dancer who has explored over 15 different styles throughout her life in both performative and partnered dances, and has a deep understanding of music as a multi-instrumentalist. She loves all styles and it's hard to say no to the music, so you can find several vibe changes throughout her sets to keep the music and movement alive.
DJ Adin
1 year into dancing, Adin was given a collection of swing CDs and thus unknowingly began his DJ career. His passion for music from a young age made it easy for him to love finding and sharing music for dancers. Crafting sets on the fly while watching the dance floor closely, he's going to channel your collective vibes into music that calls you to dance.
FULL SCHEDULE
**We are dealing with humans; schedules are subject to change; be flexible; thanks!
All Access Pass holders may also attend any class or dance at the Denver Jazz Festival and Lindy on the Rocks. Find their full schedule HERE
Thursday Night Pre-Party at the Mercury Cafe - collab with Shimmy Shakin’ Blues!
Live Music 8-Midnight featuring MJ & the Side Gig! Blues dance lesson.
Mercury Cafe 2199 California St. Denver CO 80205
Note: this is not included in event passes and has a separate admission fee.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
Friday
Curtis Hotel 3rd Floor
7:00pm to 5:00am Fusion Social Dance - Four Square Ballroom
Lesson 7-8, DJs & Musical Acts
Saturday
Curtis Hotel 3rd Floor Ballrooms
Classes will run 11:00am-4:00pm - Schedule below!
8:00pm to 6:00 am Fusion Social Dance - Four Square Ballroom
Lesson, DJs & Musical Acts
Sunday
Curtis Hotel 3rd Floor Ballrooms - Choose Your Own Adventure!
Classes will run 11:00am-4:00pm - Schedule below!
8-Midnight: DJ’d Fusion Social Dance - Four Square Ballroom
Midnight-3am: Farewell Soul , Blues, & Fusion Party - The Studio Loft
Hot Night Fusion Weekend is thrilled to have out-of-town visitors for the event! Please use the Facebook groups to organize roommates for the hotel or to seek a local host.
We have secured a block of rooms at The Curtis Hotel for a special rate. To book a room, click HERE
DISCOUNTED ROOM BLOCK IS SOLD OUT!
Roommate Finder Facebook Group: CLICK HERE
Flying Into Denver
The nearest major airport to Denver is the Denver International Airport (DIA). DIA is a stylish, up-to-date facility receiving all popular airlines. You can find deals at respective discount airfare sites or directly from your preferred airline. We suggest checking fares often and signing up for low fare alert services.
www.southwest.com – www.farecast.com – www.orbitz.com –www.kayak.com – www.priceline.com – www.hotwire.com –www.travelocity.com
Getting Around Denver
Rideshare programs like Uber or Lyft are highly active in Denver.
RTD Buses – For public transportation, our RTD buses and light rail system are an effective and inexpensive method of getting around Denver. Check out the RTD website for a helpful Trip Planner and more details on Denver public transit.
Bird Scooters are an efficient/affordable option to get around downtown. App download required.
Lime Scooters are another app based scooter option to get around downtown. App download required.
Getting to Downtown Denver from DIA
The A Line will get you from the DIA airport to Union Station (around 1 mile from the Studio Loft/Curtis Hotel) in approximately 45 minutes. This is by far the most affordable and efficient way to get downtown from the airport. Last train to leave DIA departs at 1:26am. Trains departing Union Station start as early as 3:15am.
Would you like to earn your pass by working the event? We offer shifts towrads full weekend or dance passes. 10 hours for a full weekend, 6 hours for a dances only pass. Fill out THIS FORM to apply! Questions? felicia@cmdance.org
Volunteers at the event will be required to fulfill 10 hours for the all-access pass and 6 hours for the dance pass.
Once the schedule has been finalized, every volunteer is required to cover their shift if they are no longer able to work for a time they signed up for. You are still required to meet the minimum amount of hours, so swapping shifts with another volunteer is acceptable. Any changes must be notified to the volunteer coordinator.
Volunteers are responsible for managing their own schedule. i.e. Make sure you keep up with your schedule and don’t miss your shift.
All volunteers must adhere to the responsibilities provided to the workers prior to the event.
All volunteers are representatives of CMDance, its mission and standards, which means you will conduct yourselves with professional, courteous, and appropriate behavior for a work-place environment.
Failing to show up for a shift, or on time for a shift, will result in paying for your pass or a portion of your pass, as applicable for the amount of shifts missed as deemed appropriate by the event managers. You will also not be allowed to volunteer at any future events and will not be given a positive referral.
NO OUTSIDE FOOD IS ALLOWED AT THE CURTIS HOTEL
For 2024 we will have lunch buffets and evening happy hour cocktail and food for purchase on Saturday & Sunday.
Meal Schedule:
Saturday Brunch 11:30-1:30pm - Curtis Hotel - 3rd Floor - Duck Duck Goose $25
Saturday Dinner 5:00-7:00pm - Curtis Hotel - 3rd Floor - Four Square Foyer $25 + Cash Bar 4:30
Sunday Brunch 11:30-1:30pm - Curtis Hotel - 3rd Floor - Duck Duck Goose $25
Sunday Dinner 5:00-7:00pm - Curtis Hotel - 3rd Floor - Four Square Foyer $25 + Cash Bar 4:30
(or click here for the nearest restaurants).
CMDance Director
Caryn Carrasco
SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR
Reese Dewey
Reese didn’t choose event management; it chose her. She is a natural organizer, planner, and puzzle-piece fitter. When she’s not busy running events, she can be found managing her vintage shops, teaching or performing vintage dances, or updating vintage houses. Reese is also currently training her service dog, Charlotte (Lottie), plotting her next travel adventures, and honing her witchcraft skills.
Event Manager
Melody Flores
Meet Melody, a dancer whose passion for movement ignited on school stages and bedroom floors, where the melodies of the Backstreet Boys first sparked her love affair with dance. From those humble beginnings, she blossomed into a dynamic performer, captivating audiences in college shows and later immersing herself in the world of Argentine Tango. She later found fulfillment in managing Argentine Tango festivals, fostering a sense of community and connection through her work.
But Melody's dance journey took an unexpected turn a few years ago when she discovered fusion dance—a dynamic blend of styles that resonated deeply with her. Entranced by its emphasis on connection, music, and inclusivity, she embraced fusion wholeheartedly, finding a new sense of belonging and purpose. Now, as the event manager of Hot Night Fusion Weekend, she's excited to channel her passion into serving and celebrating the fusion community.
event manager
Laura Hutchinson
bio coming soon!