James Horada

I remember watching the film “singing in the rain” starring Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor when I was about four years old, and constantly jumping around the house, pretending that I could dance… I think I may still be pretending.

Being a dancer was never an ambition of mine, and it was only due to a persuasive friend convincing me to try a lindy hop class that I discovered this wonderful dance.

I find the world of swing dancing a bizarre but surprisingly addictive one, embracing music, learning, rhythm, travel, smiles and big Italian ice creams.

I have played jazz piano for several years, and have tried my hand with the trumpet, the flute, the guitar and composing. I have also spent many years practicing martial arts and I believe the combination of these activities has helped me with my dancing.

I have a bachelor of arts (Hons) in ceramics and sculpture and also own a fabric drapery business. Sadly the combination of these activities does nothing for my dancing what so ever!

James is a wonderful part of our team and brings a special energy and charm to our community. He loves his dancing and just in the last twelve months has attended dance camps such as:

Swing Crash - Lake Como Italy, Dublin, Liverpool with Dax, Provence France and Snowball - Stockholm.

You will see James teaching regularly in Maida Vale but also guest teaching at all our venues around town.