Welcome to Sharky Swing
At Sharky Swing, our mission is to create a fun, welcoming, and safe space to share our love of West Coast Swing. After years of traveling and dancing around the country, Shanna was inspired to create a place that brings the Bay Area dance communities together. By hosting instructors from across the country, inviting some of her favorite DJs, and yes, providing plenty of snacks, Sharky Swing aims to create a cozy, connected environment where everyone can relax, dance, and feel at home.
Why is it called Sharky Swing?
The inspiration for the name came from the phrase: "How do you say San Jose without saying San Jose?" The first image that popped into Shanna's head was Sharks (the hockey team if you aren't getting the connection). From there, the name Sharky Swing was born. Shanna also loved the idea of having a cute mascot which gave her more confidence that Sharky Swing was the correct name. From the powers of the internet she was able to hire an artist to create the Sharky designs.
The mind behind Sharky Swing: Shanna
Shanna Porcari (she/her) has been teaching dance since 2006 and has been active in the West Coast Swing community since 2009. Over the years, she has traveled across the country, visiting and connecting with the many vibrant dance communities. She currently competes in the All-Star and Showcase divisions and regularly teaches and judges at events nationwide.
Shanna’s passion for dance and her desire to create a welcoming “little dance home” led her to create Sharky Swing. A core part of her vision is bringing in instructors she has met throughout her career and sharing their energy, knowledge, and love for the dance with the local community. She also enjoys bringing in her favorite DJs (the ones she knows will keep you on the dance floor).
At the heart of Sharky Swing is Shanna’s love of community and hospitality. From a friendly face at the door to thoughtful details like snacks and a welcoming atmosphere, her goal is to make every dancer feel comfortable, supported, and excited to be there.
Shanna is deeply invested in the growth of Sharky Swing and is always looking for ways to create the best possible experience for the community. Whether you’re new to dance or a long-time dancer, her goal is for Sharky Swing to feel like home.