The 35th Annual Tea Dance, hosted by USA Dance-Minnesota Chapter #2011, was an unforgettable afternoon filled with elegance, energy, and joy! Held on a picture-perfect Sunday, May 4, 2025, the event took place at the stunning Lafayette Country Club, nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Minnetonka in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota. What better setting to celebrate the art of dance?
The 2025 Tea Dance—the chapter’s crown jewel and most anticipated event of the year—sold out weeks in advance, and it’s no surprise why! Chair Connie Knipp and her dedicated committee rolled out the red carpet for over 150 delighted guests, including enthusiastic students from Carleton College, St. Olaf College, the University of Minnesota, and the University of St. Thomas. Thanks to the generous support of our dance community, these student guests were warmly welcomed and fully sponsored—what a beautiful way to share the love of dance!
Guests were treated to a mouthwatering buffet brunch on the verandah, overlooking the club’s manicured grounds. With the sun shining, laughter in the air, and music wafting through the breeze, the mood was simply magical.
At 1 PM, the dance floor came alive as more than 150 guests twirled, glided, and grooved across the breathtaking Crystal Ballroom, complete with glittering chandeliers, grand French doors, and a magnificent 6,000-square-foot dance floor. DJ Scott Anderson kept the party going with an inclusive mix of tunes and mixers, while nine incredible dance hosts ensured everyone had a partner and a chance to shine.
Our talented photographer, David Chin (www.dchinphoto.com), captured the essence of the day—every joyful moment, every elegant movement—preserving memories that will last a lifetime.
Midafternoon, the crowd was dazzled by inspiring performances from exceptional local dancers. The dynamic duo Lisa Wu and Daniel Lai wowed the audience with a sizzling Cha-Cha and a smoldering Bolero, full of energy and finesse. Then, the graceful Lorie Hurst and C.J. Hurst took the stage with a breathtaking American Smooth Waltz—complete with elegant lifts—and followed it with a dramatic, showstopping Tango. These accomplished performers, who compete at the open level in regional and national USA Dance competitions, brought the house down!
A heartfelt thank you goes out to every person who made this day extraordinary—the passionate 2025 Tea Dance Committee Members, the wonderful volunteers, generous student sponsors, brilliant performers, and the always-amazing dance hosts. Your time, talent, and spirit made this event legendary.
And of course, deepest gratitude to USA Dance–Minnesota Chapter #2011 for their unwavering support and sponsorship. Because of you, the joy of dance continues to thrive and inspire.
