This was the first year for organizers Mary Murphy, popular judge of the hit show “So You Think You Can Dance” and Michael Chapman, renowned producer of other elite events such as the Millenium Championships, to join forces and create a spectacular comp here in Southern California. Formerly known as the Pacific Dancesport Championships, Hollywood Dancesport changed not only it’s name, but the venue to the Woodland Hills Marriott, and transformed the image of the event to one of sophistication and glamour. Upon arrival, dancers and spectators walked the red carpet from the hotel entrance to the ballroom in true Hollywood fashion. Attention to detail turned the ballroom into a posh backdrop for the weekend’s dance events. The professional show for the weekend was World Exhibition Champions, Victor da Silva and Hanna Karttunen. Another notable faces were producer and judge of “So You Think You Can Dance”, Mr. Nigel Lithgow, who was a surprise guest and Corky Ballas, of “Dancing with the Stars”, who was one of the emcees for the event.

Erik took three students, Maya Sahabu, Jennifer Kay and Bunny Barth to Hollywood Dancesport. All three danced well with excellent results, including Maya winning the Silver Int’l Latin Championship.

Erik also caught up with his old friend from the Montreal ballroom scene, Clement Jolie, who was there with his own students dancing over the weekend, who also danced very well. Clement and his wife are the owners of the gorgeous Metropolitan Ballroom in North Carolina.

This comp is a well-run, beautifully planned event, so be sure to attend next year and get in on the glitter of Hollywood DanceSport.