Julie Epplett has been dancing West Coast Swing since 1997. She formed TOWestCoast (pronounced “Tee-Oh” West Coast) in 2001 as a way to promote West Coast Swing in Toronto, bringing social dancers together to learn the dance, improve their skills – and for the pure joy of dancing!

Sometimes called “Modern Swing” West Coast is a genre of swing dancing known for its versatility and improvisational style. It’s danced to a wide variety of music and continues to evolve and a grow. In recent years it’s become increasingly ‘degendered’; many West Coast Swing dancers enjoy the challenge of learning to both Lead and Follow.

In addition to teaching classes and hosting dances, Julie assists West Coast Swing Event Directors with their hotel arrangements. She continues to compete, for the pure joy of being on the dance floor, and is often asked to judge – a role she takes very seriously. Julie is an advocate for mental health and is grateful for the support of the West Coast Swing community.