On Saturday, March 9, nine dedicated leaders left it all on the stage at Seattle Dances. They partnered with some of the region’s finest professional dancers, showcasing styles such as Lindy Hop, Waacking, Bollywood, Pop, and more.
Thanks to their hard work, more than 1,150 donors gave over $1.75 million for Plymouth Housing. Congratulations to the dancers for a record-breaking year!
With the support of our amazing community, Plymouth is able to provide permanent homes and lifesaving services to nearly 1,400 residents each year. You’re helping build a future where everyone in our region has access to safe, stable housing and the resources they need to thrive. Thank you.
If you missed the show and want to watch our dancers’ performances, view the recording on YouTube below. See you again next year for Seattle Dances 2025!
Didn’t get the chance to support your favorite dancer? Not a problem—we’ve extended giving until March 31! Just click or tap on the photos above to make a donation in gratitude of their hard work and amazing performances.
LNW
Dancing Lindy Hop with Ben White
What is your day job?
CEO of a wealth management firm, helping families make the greatest impact with their resources.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
I believe in the mission of Plymouth Housing and given the opportunity to impact this important mission, I took the chance.
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
When I was in my teens, I joined the Nature Conservancy as a member early on, as I recognized that it took every one of us to help change this world for the better.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
I value Plymouth’s holistic approach to serving those most in need. It isn’t just about housing—it is about wrapping around essential services to help people become sustainable and empowered in their lives. I also appreciate that compassion is built into the entire process.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
They are so excited and cannot wait for the event!
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
For the first month, I will keep it in the kitchen so my significant other has to see it every day! 😊 Then I will put it in my office at work as a memory of a wonderful event.
Ben has been addicted to all things Swing since 2004. He has studied Lindy Hop, Balboa, Tap, and Solo Jazz dance under masters from the original swing era and worked with world class contemporary swing dancers.
He has had success both locally and internationally as a competitor and coach placing in contests such as The International Lindy Hop Championships, the National Jitterbug Championships, Camp Jitterbug, and many more. He has also been involved in more than 100 productions as a performer, producer, choreographer, and technician.
Ben is well known for his clear instruction and ability to break down and communicate technique while keeping classes entertaining and engaging. He is the Artistic Director at The Syncopation Foundation, and frequently teaches swing dance all over the world.
Gourmondo Co.
Dancing a Fred and Ginger style routine with Peter Flahiff
What is your day job?
I am the CEO of a Seattle-based catering, events and corporate amenities company. Gourmondo Co. is known for our gourmet box lunches, full service, social and corporate events, and corporate campus cafes.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
Gourmondo Co. has been a longtime supporter of Plymouth through our Giving Box program. As the former CEO of FareStart, I have been connected to Plymouth for many years and partnered closely with the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic. I have such deep respect and admiration for the mission and leadership at Plymouth. The fact that I could show my support and help raise critically needed funds while learning some new dance moves made the decision a no-brainer.
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
Being of service has always been important to me, dating back to volunteerism I did as a young college student. My first passion was around voting rights, and I went on to lead a campaign in partnership with Planned Parenthood of Western Washington to register voters in the 2004 election. When I became a business owner five years later, I more deeply understood the importance of taking care of our community, and with that, the importance of providing for our entire community—especially those who are living unhoused. What inspires me? Community. I know that’s a buzz word these days, but community is at the very heart of our society. Whether it’s your community of friends and loved ones or greater community support—the notion that a group of people coming together around a cause or common bond is very powerful.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
First, Plymouth knows that Housing First is crucial in breaking the cycle of homelessness. They also understand that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to chronic homelessness and tailor their supportive services to meet individual client needs. Secondly, Plymouth has been a longstanding partner with the city, county, and state, with regional nonprofit partners, and with the community for decades. They are a trusted provider and have proven their model is effective in ending chronic homelessness.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
My friends and husband think it’s very cool, and they are excited to attend the competition. My eleven- and nine-year-old boys think “it’s a little cringe!”
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
It would probably have to live on a floating shelf in our kitchen, which is the location of most of our family’s nighttime pajama dance parties.
Wright Runstad & Company
Dancing Cha Cha with Andy Howe
What is your day job?
I oversee the daily operations of nearly 1.5 million square feet of completed office and retail space leased to Meta, the Global Innovation Exchange, Deloitte, Catalyst, and Bellevue Brewing, while also managing the condominium association that maintains the shared outdoor park space throughout the 36-acre development site. My passion lies in community building and working with public and private partnerships that can facilitate effective placemaking in an urban environment.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
I attended Seattle Dances last year to support my friend and fellow Bellevue Chamber board member Elaina Morris, who was dancing. Instantly I was mesmerized and knew I needed to be a part of this incredible opportunity to give back to the community while challenging myself with something new. I am always looking for ways to support local causes while also overcoming a fear and taking on a physically demanding test of my abilities. In 2020 I rappelled off the side of a 20-story building in Spokane for Habitat for Humanity—so this is right up my alley!
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
I have always been a community-minded person, but my passion for service accelerated when I was crowned Mrs. Washington America in August of 2020. We were in the midst of the global pandemic, and I had to get very creative on how I could serve my community while still adhering to local guidelines and restrictions. My year as Mrs. Washington was a catalyst to my success in business, as a community leader, as a mother, and as a strong, confident woman. I learned more about myself and my abilities in that year, and that newfound belief in myself gave me the courage to step out as a leader in the community and create a network of like-minded people who are trying to be the change we wish to see in this world.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
Plymouth is providing that next step, safe, stable housing opportunity for those who are transitioning out of homelessness and don’t qualify for traditional housing options. With the rising costs of living in our region, finding a home often feels unachievable for those who are considered low-income, credit deficient, or chronically unhoused. Without the incredible work that Plymouth is doing, our community would not have the resources needed to make progress towards stable housing for all.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
They are excited and also not surprised that I’d go big for my next personal challenge!
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
Next to my Mrs. Washington crown and “40 Under 40” trophy to remind myself that great things happen when you stay laser-focused on becoming the best version of yourself and finding ways to pay it forward.
Returning dancer, Andy Howe is an unknown quantity. Having delved into any and all dance forms that he could get his hands on, he is a jack of all trades. From competitive Ballroom to down and funky Hip-Hop, Andy brings a passion for dance and technique to a new level. Always remaining a student, you can find Andy attending classes and socials at every venue in town, practicing late night in the studio, and honing his skills at choreography, teaching, and dance. The only thing equal in measure to Andy’s passion for dance, is how bad his jokes are! Keeping students smiling, and loving the journey, Andy is representing his studio Impact Ballroom, and hopes to leave it all on the dance floor in support of Plymouth and helping with the homelessness crisis in Seattle.
Plymouth Housing
Dancing Pop with Keyes Wiley
What is your day job?
I am the leader of Plymouth Housing.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
Now that I’ve been in my job over a year, it’s time to dance!
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
I’ve always been inspired to help my community. I am a member of a racial group that is frequently disenfranchised, othered, discriminated against, underemployed, undereducated, and underhoused—and the consequences are poor health and a greater risk of homelessness. At the same time, we live in a land of opportunity. I want to see the opportunity and the blessings that I have received extended to everyone in my community.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
We are special and incredibly successful at what we do. We operate under a “Housing First” model because we believe that people need a home before anything else. Our success rate of helping people remain stably housed is more than 95%.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
They think it’s great.
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
Plymouth headquarters needs a ball!
California native Keyes is a multi-dimensional art maker, who creates out of necessity. Their vast movement vocabulary spans a lifetime of influences. As of late they have been organizing in the streets of Seattle, but usually they dabble in dance, sound, theater, a combo of all three or none of the above. Keyes has been an arts educator in Seattle for a while now. When they are not in the studio, you can find them at Rainier Dance Center in Rainier Beach as the director of hip hop/street styles dance or choreographing with Seattle Children’s Theatre.
Keyes holds a BFA in Dance from Cornish College of the Arts and has performed or collaborated with too many national/international artists to name. Prior to shelter in place, they hosted a DJ event at Vermillion Art Gallery & Bar with Alice Gosti and started a monthly performance party at Studio Current called SC Sessions. Keyes was a member of the 2014 City Arts Future List & also graced the cover of the magazine in 2016.
Retired Physician
Dancing Bachata with Kelly Sparks
What is your day job?
I retired in June 2022.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
Plymouth provides exceptional housing and services for Seattle’s houseless citizens. This is highly important given the growing number of people in our area who need shelter and assistance. These are basic needs to which all of our citizens should have access.
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
My desire to have an impact took root 40 years ago when I started as a family physician in Seattle. Today, I am inspired by others who work and care daily for those in need.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
Plymouth both provides necessities to their residents on-site and refers them to resources in the community. Their model combines homes with access to needed services.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
They are excited and quite supportive!
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
On my mantel, of course!
Kelly Sparks is a Latin dance instructor and DJ based in Seattle. She teaches at Sueños de Salsa and Century Ballroom, and she is a performer with BGC Dance Company.
Having started dancing at a young age, Kelly’s journey led her to discover her true passion for salsa music and dance at the age of 15. Although she has explored various dance styles such as Folk, Aerial, and Ballroom, Latin dance will always be first in her heart.
Kelly’s teaching style is characterized by patience, fun, and extensive knowledge. She takes immense joy in sharing her love for dance with her students, witnessing their growth, and seeing how it positively impacts their lives.
ExtraHop
Dancing Bollywood with Eshita Jayaswal
What is your day job?
ExtraHop is the world’s leading Network Security and Observability Analytics company. We help keep the world safe by empowering our clients with the information they need to fulfill their missions. As co-founder of the organization, I generally have difficulty staying in any particular swim lane. That being said, my passion is the customer experience—and applying innovation to solve hard problems. This has me working with customers, employees, and partners on a daily basis.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
The need for safety is a basic tenet of any society. Homelessness is a blight on any community, but more so on a prosperous one. It’s unconscionable that in an area of so much opportunity and wealth, we have people who are left behind. Attainment and fulfillment are often conflated, and fulfillment comes from service to others. Plymouth Housing’s cause represents one of the important pillars of my fulfillment.
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
I’ve always been passionate about authentic belonging and community. Humans are social by nature. As an avid reader and listener of Brené Brown, I’ve learned how we can take those ideals and put them into practice. People who live by those values inspire me. That sometimes means getting uncomfortable, as that discomfort drives growth.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
Housing in our region is astronomically expensive and extremely inequitable. Plymouth Housing’s mission directly addresses this. But moreover, it restores personal dignity. There’s no price on that.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
They’ve always thought I was a little odd. Now they know I’m absolutely deluded. Seriously. I am a very, very bad dancer—but I think they still love me.
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
Right next to my original painting of the “Mona Lisa,” so probably in the bathroom. With the caliber of the other dancers, I’m as likely to get this trophy as I am to have the “Mona Lisa” in my bathroom, you see…
Eshita’s dance journey started over 20 years ago with her classical training in the Tanjavur style, Bharatnatyam. At the age of 14, she had her Arangetram (equivalent to a graduation ceremony) and since then she has done many performances. Throughout her school years, she has also learned and has choreographed many Indian Folk dances. She had the opportunity to train in the Bollywood dance form under Shiamak Davar. During undergrad, she took to learning bhangra and led the university bhangra group. Eshita is a choreographer and instructor for Rangeela Dance Company.
Novelist
Dancing Waacking with Tracey Wong
What is your day job?
I’m the novelist behind “A.I. BABY.” In this story, an ambitious mom and overachieving daughter striving for perfection and elite college admittance find themselves on a collision course with A.I. superintelligence that will render all human achievement meaningless.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
Plymouth Housing changes lives by providing permanent supportive housing and is a vital part of our community.
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
When my kids attended St. Joseph School, I loved raising money so the school could provide scholarships. I was an avid volunteer on the auctions and served as chair for one year and procurement chair for two years. I have enjoyed volunteer work with my daughter at Mary’s Place and Ruby Room. I am inspired by the selfless individuals at Plymouth Housing and their dedication to helping others. Everyone deserves a chance.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
Their housing first method has obviously worked. The numbers don’t lie with a success rate of over 95% and nearly 1,200 current residents.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
They are excited for me to show off my renowned dance stylings.
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
I will commission a marble pillar to display it prominently and proudly in my home.
Tracey Wong 黃麗塋 (she/her) is a queer Chinese-American dancer, educator, and community space holder. She was born and raised on Duwamish Land/ Seattle, WA in The SouthEnd by her loving refugee and immigrant parents. Tracey takes pride in representing her city and wishes to inspire and hold community spaces that empower many, especially queer, women, and communities of color.
Tracey is the co-director of Malicious Vixens, a dance crew and sisterhood of Asian American women that creates work with the values of joy, community care, and collaboration. Her current work centers on community care and building a strong & sustainable virtual community with her peers through her online classes and gatherings — Honey n Sensualitea, Waacking/ Whacking class, and W*acking Open Mic Nights. She also is the Program & Communications Manager and an artist mentor at Totem Star, a community-based organization that empowers youth voice through mentorship and making music that allows for the youth to honestly express themselves.
Tracey has founded many community arts organizing events such as Queen of the Hill, an all-ladies dance event series and Punk N Funk, Seattle’s largest Waacking/ Whacking battle. For the past 3 years, she has also been a co-organizer and host for Sweet 16, an annual international open-styles dance jam that happens in her favorite neighborhood, Seattle’s Chinatown-ID.
Pre-COVID-19, she had travelled throughout the world to rep her city proudly through performing, teaching, judging, MC-ing, competing, and by just showing up honestly in these spaces as herself. Tracey is continuing to learn what it means to take care of herself, educate herself & take accountability, and deepen her understanding of herself so that she can continue to transform, heal, and sprinkle joy back into her community and loved ones.
Agrob Buchtal
Dancing West Coast Swing with Za Thomaier
What is your day job?
I lead business expansion strategies across the U.S. for the durable, sustainable, beautiful architectural ceramics Agrob Buchtal has manufactured in Germany since 1755—floor, wall, pool and façade tiles for every purpose!
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
The easy YES is the mission. Plymouth puts humanity back into housing. Not only is Plymouth providing fundamental infrastructure, they understand the importance of integrating critical services. Haven’t we all become acutely aware these are both missing from our social fabric?
I live in Belltown and some of my favorite neighbors are Plymouth residents: they show such kindness, consistency, and care. It’s a joy to do something meaningful for them.
In past years I’ve had central roles in tech start-ups focused on increasing the supply of affordable, sustainable, multifamily housing. I know what it takes, and it’s not easy. Plymouth keeps delivering.
The next YES is dance. My mother, who I’m thousands of miles away from, adores “Strictly Come Dancing” (the UK version of “Dancing with the Stars”). We discuss it religiously every week. I hope I’ll make her proud. She’ll be my strongest armchair advocate—and judge!
A secret: I’ve been insanely jealous of past performers! I am passionate about the importance of the arts and the power of dance. In fact, my recipe for world peace includes everyone being required to partner dance (I have other essential ingredients too—donate to learn more!).
The final YES is to “this year”. Saying yes to this is both exciting and incredibly daunting. So why now? The COVID-19 years shaped us all in various ways. For me this represents two current needs: it creates significant funds to increase housing supply, and it provides me a meaningful purpose and forcing function to reach out and re-connect with my own amazing network. Beautiful people—I’m counting on you!
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
I can’t recall a definitive moment. I’ll credit Arup for introducing me, roughly 25 years ago, to the need for sustainability and how the design and construction industry can respond. For me it’s always been about life thriving on earth, not saving the planet. From global to local, there’s nothing more fundamental to thriving in life than a roof over one’s head.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
I value Plymouth’s Housing First model of permanent housing combined with supportive services. It proves that a compassionate, human-centered approach can provide both social and fiscal value.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
I think they’re excited and daunted for me, and they’re glad it’s not them! Hopefully excited (or relieved!) enough to donate $$$s.
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
I’d love to see it on top of my mother’s TV when she’s watching “Strictly!”
Za Thomaier comes from a family of dancers and musicians. He ignored the call for his entire childhood, but it finally got him in his early twenties and he has been dancing ever since. Za has a wide background of dances from Ballroom to Brazilian Zouk. One of his favorite dances is West Coast Swing. Za holds the rank of Allstar in the West Coast Swing competition community and competes in the classic division with his partner, Anna Wallace.
USI/Seawolves Rugby
Dancing West Coast Swing with Rebecca Savoca
What is your day job?
Property & Casualty Insurance broker. Leading USI’s nonprofit practice team, our mission is to provide risk management resources to help stabilize insurance costs year over year, allowing organizations to invest more into their vision/mission.
What made you want to dance in support of Plymouth Housing this year?
The mission—and to challenge my comfort zone.
When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?
Through sport, you realize coaches and administration folks are all volunteers. That transpired into me doing the same, and more.
In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?
Hope. Everyone deserves this in some shape or form, and Plymouth Housing provides that.
What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!
Mixed feedback. Some said I’ll do great, it’s a great challenge, it’s a great way to bring our group together—and some avoided commenting on my dancing ability altogether and said the mission is great with a grin on their face ha!
Where would you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?
My office, making sure it’s visible in my virtual background, so people can see it and ask me about it.
Rebecca Savoca, known for her elegant and smooth style, has played an active role in the West Coast Swing community of the Pacific Northwest. She’s an avid competitor, a respected instructor, and a supportive community builder. Dancing since 2006, she’s taught at multiple studios and conventions, teaching beginners to advanced levels. She’s passionate about helping individuals access and embrace their inner rhythm, and connect authentically with one another, regardless of movement experience. She is a firm believer that you are never too old to learn something new, and loves sharing the joy of dancing with others. You’ll find Rebecca dancing, teaching, and DJing on the regular across the PNW.
This fun, meaningful event wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our annual steering committee. Thank you to these dedicated committee members for their hard work!
Laura Bachman
Sean Brennan
Kaden Eichmeier
Emily Heston
Lauren Homme
Doug Ito
Shari Leid
Terry Robinson
Alex Schrempf
Linda Walton
TOP PROMOTER
Awarded to the dance team with the highest number of individual donors.
2024 Winner: Celeste Garcia Ramberg & Tracey Wong
HOUSING FIRST HERO
Awarded to the dance team that raises the most money.
2024 Winner: Scott McIntyre & Kelly Sparks
DYNAMITE DANCER
Awarded to the dance team with the most creative, passionate performance of the night.
2024 Winner: Janet Stephenson & Za Thomaier
Seattle Dances is a sensational fundraiser benefiting an important cause: Plymouth Housing. Plymouth is dedicated to helping the most vulnerable members of our community leave homelessness behind forever. Watch this year’s video where Kevin shares how his life has transformed since becoming a Plymouth resident.
Through 17 buildings in King County, Plymouth provides homes to nearly 1,400 single adults who have been unhoused for many years. At Plymouth, we’re not simply trying to get people off the streets. We provide supportive services like case management and health care so that our residents can thrive long-term.
This wouldn’t be the best party in town without the support of so many wonderful celebrity dancers and their professional dance partners!
This event is made possible through the dedicated support of Hallie Kuperman and Century Ballroom. They have supported this event since the beginning, helping to raise nearly $13 million over 15 years. We’re grateful for their partnership!
Can’t get enough dancing? Watch performances from prior years at these links: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 (rehearsals), 2011, 2010.
This event wouldn’t be possible without the generous businesses, organizations, and individuals that support its production.
