The Liberty Swing Dance Championships, held annually at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, NJ, is a major event on the West Coast Swing circuit.

This popular dance event draws dancers from all around the world, eager to showcase their skills in a range of competition formats. Among these, the All-Star Jack & Jill division is especially exciting, as it pairs dancers randomly, challenging them to demonstrate their ability to adapt and create chemistry on the fly. This year’s competition featured standout dancers Leo Lorenzo and Mia Pastor, who delivered a memorable and captivating performance that wowed the audience.

For those unfamiliar with the format, the Jack & Jill division requires dancers to perform with a partner assigned at random.

This creates a dynamic that demands adaptability, spontaneity, and an innate understanding of rhythm and style. Dancers like Leo and Mia excel in this environment because they possess not only technical skill but also the ability to connect with a new partner and create something extraordinary in real-time. In their performance, they showed impressive versatility, moving through intricate patterns with ease while maintaining a playful and engaging energy that captivated the crowd​.

The Liberty Swing Dance Championships isn’t just about competition; it’s a full-fledged dance festival.

Beyond the intense competitions, the event includes a range of workshops led by top dance professionals. These workshops cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers, and cover everything from basic footwork to advanced techniques. This makes Liberty Swing an ideal event for anyone interested in West Coast Swing, regardless of their level of experience. There’s also a strong social aspect to the event, with themed parties, such as the Saturday night GLOW party, where attendees deck themselves out in white and neon for a night of dancing and revelry​.

One of the hallmarks of Liberty Swing is its commitment to inclusivity and community. The competitions are gender-neutral, allowing dancers to participate in roles that best suit their style and preference, whether that’s leading, following, or even switching roles mid-dance. This emphasis on inclusivity reflects a broader trend in the dance community towards breaking down traditional gender norms and creating a more welcoming space for all dancers. Liberty Swing’s atmosphere of camaraderie and support is something that keeps dancers returning year after year, and it’s a big part of what makes this event so beloved in the dance community​.

In addition to the competitions and social dances, Liberty Swing also offers opportunities for dancers to earn World Swing Dance Council (WSDC) points, which can help them advance through the ranks. For competitors like Leo and Mia, these points are crucial as they pursue higher levels within the dance circuit. Winning or placing in high-ranking events like Liberty Swing can open doors to even more prestigious competitions and performance opportunities, solidifying their status in the swing dance world.

For Leo Lorenzo and Mia Pastor, the 2024 Liberty Swing Championships was a platform to showcase their talent and passion. Their performance in the All-Star Jack & Jill division was a testament to their hard work, creativity, and love for West Coast Swing. The energy they brought to the floor was infectious, and it’s clear they left a lasting impression not only on the judges but also on the audience, who cheered them on with enthusiasm. Their performance highlighted the essence of Jack & Jill—an unpredictable, joyous celebration of dance and connection that brings people together through movement and music​.

Overall, the Liberty Swing Dance Championships is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of dance, community, and shared passion. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a newcomer, this event offers something for everyone. For Leo Lorenzo and Mia Pastor, it was a stage on which to shine, and their performance will be remembered as one of the highlights of this year’s event. If you’re a fan of West Coast Swing or simply curious about the dance, Liberty Swing is an event worth experiencing.

Who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself inspired to step onto the dance floor and join the fun.

As the weekend came to a close, it was clear that everyone left with memories and connections that would last far beyond the final dance. So, what are your thoughts? Did Leo and Mia's performance inspire you to try out some swing moves yourself? Let us know in the comments below!