Ana Lisa Sutherland

Ana Lisa Sutherland is a powerhouse of energy packed into a petite frame, and she brings it all to the dance floor! She began her dance journey early in life in California, where she competed in Ballroom and Hip Hop before (accidentally) falling in love with Lindy Hop. Since 2008, she has traveled across the country to compete and learn swing dancing from original legends and current-day champions. Ana Lisa holds multiple titles from prestigious weekend events like Northwest Balboa Fest, Lindy Bout, Camp Jitterbug, Lindy Focus, and Lindy On The Rocks. Some of her favorite performance highlights include Lincoln Center’s Midsummer Night Swing and local cabaret shows in her current city of Seattle. Ana Lisa believes that swing dancing is a cultural experience that allows participants to connect with the roots of this African American historical dance, contribute to its legacy, and shine. There truly is a place for everyone within it. Consequently, she loves drawing inspiration from historical sources and the legends that have paved the way, while also incorporating newer dance forms from her ongoing explorations in the world of dance. In the classroom, she strives to inspire other dancers to authentically express themselves on the floor and encourages everyone to embrace their uniqueness. Ana Lisa helps her students approach each dance and class with the mindset that anything could happen, unlocking the unique conversation they can have with their partner and the music.