Resuming an annual Chicago autumn tradition, the new Midwest Regional DanceSport Championships (MDC) rose from the ashes of two discontinued past Chicago regionals. This latest incarnation returned as a vibrant, all-new competition with new organizers, a new hotel, and a new name. The only aspect in common with past Chicago competitions was the city.
Whereas this competition was initially planned to begin in 2025, an unexpected opportunity to start in 2024 arose when the host hotel contacted the organizers about the sudden cancellation of another October booking. While this only left three months to put the whole thing together, organizers Shawn Fisher and Annie Topham decided to go for it. A rush to get the word out began in earnest as they quickly pulled their plans forward by twelve months.
Those in attendance spoke highly of the host hotel (the Westin O’Hare), which was larger and more luxurious than many expected and was also fully staffed – a rarity for hotels in the post-pandemic era. Competitors also liked the championship-sized dance floor, large ballroom, music, lighting, and overall feeling of spaciousness.
Most competitors and volunteers were treated to a free hot breakfast buffet in a private ballroom on both days, included at no extra charge, which created opportunities to meet and interact with other competitors in a relaxed environment prior to the start of each day’s heats.
Both the ballroom and registration area were fully set up well before the first heats on Friday night, allowing the main floor to be used for warm-ups for several hours. A smaller practice floor was also available nearby.
The event was well-run, with an experienced MC, a great stage team, and a full slate of qualified judges. The proceedings stayed on schedule, and there were no significant glitches.
Those in attendance agreed that this was a successful first year for the new competition, and most indicated that they were likely to return in 2025. The only regret was that there were not more dancers on the floor. However, that will likely improve in 2025 as the news of this year’s success spreads and more time is available for future attendees to make travel plans.
Ken Wellens is a member of the USA Dance Senior Athletes Committee. He and his partner, Maricelle Thomas, compete in Senior II and III Gold Standard and Smooth.
