He and his partner wowed the audience this past Spring, and now Jimmy Mulligan returns as a member of the judging panel at the upcoming District Showcase on September 23rd and 24th.
We caught up with Jimmy and got his perspective on how students should be preparing, how to deal with nerves, and some fun rapid fire questions.
AML: For the record, only a select few consultants get asked to judge the District Showcase twice in the same year. So, knowing that we must find you incredibly cool and helpful to the students, how does it feel coming back to Northern California to judge this event?
JM: I am VERY honored. I had so much fun the last time, and to be asked back is awesome. I'm also really excited for the show - even though, this time, I'll only be a spectator.
AML: When you came out with Dani in March, it was your first time attending the event. So we've got to ask you, how would you describe it?
JM: Energy, energy, energy!!! I felt it from the first heat to the last. The camaraderie was pretty amazing.
AML: Let's talk preparation. Everyone wants to do something in the final weeks leading up to the event to improve their dancing. What are some tips you'd recommend for people that want to prepare the best way possible?
JM: I think whenever you prepare for an event with about a month to go (or less), you should streamline your focus. I.e. posture, poise, frame, etc. Take your routines the way they are and devote your time to polishing.
AML: Now let's talk about nerves. Have you ever felt rattled on the dance floor, and, if so, what's your best tip on how to deal with that feeling?
JM: Yes, I get nervous every time, and all the way up to the last competition. You have to learn what your tendencies are when you get nervous. Do you speed up? Slow down? Then admit to yourself, or your partner or teacher, and focus that nervous energy on controlling your tendencies.
Also, I'd be more worried if someone wasn't a little nervous when they perform. When you're nervous, it means you care.
AML: There always seems to be a turning point for students, and professionals, when it comes to nerves. When you're watching someone dance, what are some tell tale signs that their nerves are no longer an issue to them?
JM: That's a great question. Sometimes, I believe in the 'Fake it til you make it' idea. Some people are very good at naturally smiling, and some are good at faking it or acting, which can be a lot of fun too. But, start with just smiling in every dance (except maybe the Tango - use your mad face). When you smile, the body starts to relax.
AML: Why should someone come to the District Showcase?
JM: There's not just one reason, there are hundreds.
But for me, whenever you have the chance to spend a weekend with so many people that love, and are as passionate about dance as I am, I'm all in. District Showcase is like a dancing family reunion, and your crazy uncle might show up too.
Rapid Fire Questions
1. Your best advice for West Coast Swing in less than 7 words.
JM: Pick a song, Dance WCS to it!
2. Favorite song to dance Hustle to.
JM: Wow, I only get one? "Real Love - Drizabone", but that could change tomorrow.
3. Your example of a Power Breakfast.
JM: 11 ounce carton of Muscle Milk Light (20 grams of protein and zero sugar), multi vitamin, fish oil tablet, an allergy pill, 28 ounces of water, and COFFEEEEEEEE!!!! You asked.
4. What did you do with the poster we sent you? JM: It's hanging in my living room where the clock was. I moved the clock above the TV.
5. You get to rebrand the term "minor dances". What's your new name for them?
JM: Specialty or Club dances.
6. Mitch or Mitchell Tribuisky?
JM: I like Mitchell, but really it's just been 'Tribuisky'.
7. What's your bold Chicago Bears prediction for the 2017-18 season?
JM: 5-11, but really just depends on how good Detroit and Minnesota are. Could possibly get wins against the 49ers and Browns. =)
Read the original interview with Jimmy Mulligan and Dani Atkins here
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