Mark Calkins is one of the most influential dancers in the Ohio Lindy Hop community and is known for his methodological approach to partner dancing. As a competitor Mark holds contest awards from Beantown Dance Camp, Nevermore Jazz Ball, SwingIN, Southern Swing Challenge and Lindy Focus. In 2009 he competed in the “World’s Largest Jack and Jill” and advanced into the semi-final round at Frankie Manning’s 95th Birthday celebration in New York City.

He co-founded the award-winning competitive dance troupe Team SwingColumbus with Shannon. He served as a core choreographer for group from 2008 – 2017.

Mark is a well-known DJ in the midwest and currently coordinates music for SwingColumbus events as the Music Chair. Mark is a dancer’s DJ and his sets have been described as “wonderfully whimsical (or tipsy)” by an Ivy League faculty member. He continues to help manage SwingColumbus events like Rocktober Workshop Weekend and regular local events like Swingin’ Wednesdays.