B’ham Hop was conceived of by our founder, Bailey McCully. The dream was then carried forward by the intrepid trio that is Pace Rubadeau, Stephanie Demetreon, and Damian Cade. For a year these three made up the core team that organized our dances and classes, booked the bands, and created a welcoming community space for jazz week in and week out. Then, in the Summer of 2022 they were joined by Adam Lewis and Rosy Montoya, bringing the merry band to 5. Having seen the stability and success of our endeavor, in 2023 Pace saw that it was time for him to move on in order to keep creating other music and dance events to bring the scene together.

Stephanie Demetreon – Instructor (she/her)

Stephanie started swing dancing in 2015 and has been teaching since 2017. She started dancing at WWU Swing Kids in order to make friends but quickly fell in love with the dance and it’s community. Stephanie graduated from WWU with a degree in Communication Studies in 2019. Her love of dancing and teaching has taken her all over Washington and even to Canada and Greece! Stephanie strives to provide a safe and joyous space for the community to connect with each other and themselves through dance and music.

If you’re interested in taking private lessons, send an e-mail to bham.hop@gmail.com to inquire/schedule.

Damian Cade – Instructor (he/him)

Damian began his dance training in the winter of 2008. His first and true love is Swing Dance; Lindy Hop, Charleston, Solo Jazz, and Balboa are permanent residents in his heart. He studied Modern Dance at the University of Washington where he received his dance minor in 2011. Since then he has continued his swing dance education at regional events, and has competed both nationally and internationally. Damian has been teaching for events and workshops since 2009, and locally at various studios in Bellingham since December 2015.

If you’re interested in taking private lessons, send an e-mail to bham.hop@gmail.com to inquire/schedule. 

Adam Lewis – Volunteer Coordinator and Live Band Booker (he/him)