Pirate Swing Crew

Jesse and Zach had no idea what they were getting into when they began organizing events in 2008, starting with the AA workshop at which Michael and Jaya taught an enthusiastic group of 30 students. In the summer of 2009 they came up with Pirate Swing, and the rest is history. Well-documented history, with lots of silly costumes.

Jesse and Zach travel regularly to dance events, both for the social dancing and the classes, and enjoy teaching the occasional class themselves. They're always on the lookout for more friendly and approachable teachers to add to the Pirate Swing lineup.

Lauren does a lot of good for Pirate Swing. She sanity-checks our crazy ideas. She manages our promotional crew, ensuring they have all the information they need to spread the word for when the Pirate Swing crew comes to port. She also keeps things running smoothly at the registration table during evening dances. We greatly appreciate the reliability, responsibility, and common sense that Lauren brings to these very important tasks.

Sarah Lokay is one of the newest members of our crew. While new to the crew, she's a regular at Pirate Swing. She has kept office hours running smoothly, and has provided many hours of work to help keep the ship sailing smoothly.

This year, she is our "at the event" volunteer wrangler. She'll keep all the posts manned, and will ensure everything is ship shape!

Traditionally, the sailmaker is in charge of all the cloth and canvas on a ship, including the flags. Mariel hand-painted the two huge pirate flags we have hoisted at Pirate Swing over the years, and is the creator of all of our wonderful pirate artwork.

If you would like some wonderful artwork for your event, Mariel happily takes commissions!

Braden has been shooting swing dancers for almost four years, live music for almost five, and people in general for as long as he's been able to hold a camera. A little too fascinated with antiquated mechanical technology, he only grudgingly made the switch to digital two years ago, but has since fallen in love. He's carving a name for himself in the Midwest as the ultimate people shooter, doing everything from weddings and senior portraits to band promos and model portfolios, all with a signature style that appeals to those that want something a little more than ordinary. You can view his website at http://www.bradennesin.com.