wcs

Interested in training?

More dancers are getting educated about how the WCS judging system operates. If you would like to learn how many judges evaluate dancers in competitions and/or would also like to practice those skills by mock judging competitions at a convention, then these intensives are for you! Space is limited to ensure that all participants have ample opportunities to get on the floor judging experience. The intensives are a little more “intense” than the regular intensives offered at events as they include over 10 hours of lectures, discussion, Q&A, and video exercises in addition to the time participants mock judge various contests.

As the current chair for the Chief Judge Committee for the World Swing Dance Council, and with over 30 years of judging/Chief Judging experience, Kelly greatly enjoys sharing her knowledge on the topic of judging and the community’s history. The intensives are open to dancers at all levels and you don’t need to compete to participate; past participants include curious social dancers, dance instructors/coaches, parents of competitors, competitors looking for a competitive edge, judges, head judges, event directors, and past attendees eager for more training – everyone is welcome!

Questions & answers

Have any questions? Find answers here!

Whether you’re new to West Coast Swing or looking to deepen your understanding, these are some of the most common questions I’m asked along the way.

Contact Me

Testimonials

What people say

“Kelly’s mock judge training program is an incredible opportunity!
She was incredibly generous offering her expertise and
experience, and the program gave me new strategies to efficiently
and accurately judge, prompted me to think more carefully about
my priorities and values, and taught me what’s expected of
professional judging staff.”

Sarah Rempel

“An all around excellent experience – learned so much from Kelly!”

Elizabeth Wyke

“Changed the way I watch competitions.”

Nan Turner

“An extraordinary workshop”

Kelly Robinson

“Great comprehensive information about what judging is beyond
just the competition itself.”

John Su

“Kelly’s judges program is a high quality, exceptional experiential
training, to further your knowledge and grow connections. I’m
going to sign up again”

Shelly Callaghan

“Absolutely unreal course that far exceeded my expectations!! I
would recommend this program to anyone even a little interested
in learning how to judge, but also as a brilliant way to further your
WD+CS knowledge from someone who’s been in this business
for over 40 years!!”

Ashley Testerman

“Attending Kelly Casanova’s Judging Intensive was a truly unique and enriching
experience. Kelly is not just an expert in West Coast Swing—she’s a living historian who
has played a pivotal role in shaping the culture of the dance. Her deep knowledge and
engaging storytelling make every session feel personal and impactful. What stood out
most was how she tailored the intensive to fit the needs of the group, taking the time to
really listen and adapt as we went. Beyond just sharing information, Kelly emphasizes
the importance of autonomy and helps guide each participant in defining their own value
system within the judging world. It’s rare to find a space that’s both educational and
empowering, and this intensive absolutely delivers on both fronts”

Judging