In this episode, we sit down with Cisco, a Seattle-based shuffle dancer who discovered the dance form through YouTube videos in 2018. From practicing alone in her Atlanta apartment to building a thriving dance community in the Pacific Northwest, Cisco shares her seven-year journey and the determination it took to transform from a self-described "cringe" beginner to a recognized instructor and performer.
She discusses the challenges of learning shuffle through YouTube videos before tutorials were widely available, slowing down videos to half-speed and rewinding them countless times to decode the movements. Cisco explains how shuffle evolved from Melbourne's underground rave scene in the late 1980s, spreading through different electronic music communities and developing distinct regional styles - from the aggressive, fast-paced Melbourne shuffle to the smoother California variations.
We explore what it takes to build a shuffle community in Seattle, including Cisco's decision to start teaching classes when none existed locally and her creation of "You Can Shuffle With Us" to make the dance form more accessible. She addresses common misconceptions about shuffle dancing, the importance of finding the right footwear, and how the dance continues to evolve with each generation of dancers.
The conversation covers shuffle's explosion during the pandemic when people had time to practice at home, the role of social media in spreading dance styles globally, and the ongoing tension between keeping shuffle authentic to its rave roots while welcoming newcomers. Cisco shares insights on performing at major festivals like Beyond Wonderland and the unique challenges of dancing at different venues across Seattle.
Finally, Cisco offers advice for hesitant beginners, emphasizing that everyone starts somewhere and encouraging people to "treat your joy like it's more important than your fear." Her message centers on building an inclusive community where dancers support each other regardless of skill level.
#shuffledance #seattle #edm #dancemusic #shuffling #edmculture #seattledance #youcanshufflewithus
