He is an active WCS competitor at the national level. With his partner, Rebecca, they were placed in top 5 in the classic division of the NASDE (National Association of Swing Dance Events) contest.
Link to his bio page: http://www.krswing.com/bio.html
WCS has been a social dance. But just like Tango, "show", or routine divisions (classic, showcase) grew out of it. WCS has become a dance to dance, as well as a dance to watch.
The dancers are not on entirely different track from social dancing "commoners", like dancers in Ballet or competitive ballroom are. Almost all WCS dancers start from social dancing. He/she may go up the contest ladders from novice, intermediate, to advanced.
There, becoming professionals is a tricky transition.
To be known as strong professionals, the dancers have to be an impressive couple with strong routines. In other words, they have to be strong entertainers as a couple. Showmanship becomes a requirement as they progress.
At the national level, each couple has to explore own contribution to the dance, and has to develop a certain style. If the dance looks bland, they will be easily forgotten. Even when everyone is dancing WCS, still somehow establishing their own brand is critical. It is entirely different contest from the novice-intermediate, or even "advanced".
In the harsh contest environment, placed among top 5 is a big deal.
I went to the party. Usually, party after workshop gathers many out-of-town dancers, and the night was no exception. It was a nice and fun party.
