The name Dean Collins will always be synonymous with Swing dancing.  Not only did he transport the Flying Lindy Hop (Swing dancing) from New York to the West Coast, but he energetically shared his knowledge with anyone interested and very often without charge. Dean never held back the techniques of dancing, and gave his all whenever he taught. Dean was able to break down many of the most intricate patterns and aerials into their basic elements so anyone could learn them.

For many years I had difficulty with my Swing dancing, especially The Whip, until Dean began teaching me his techniques for Street Swing. Many of the techniques Dean taught me were in direct contrast to the "dance studio" Swing I had learned at the chain studios. Bad techniques will prevent you from progressing beyond the basics. Dean's techniques were always designed to feel physically natural, simple to understand, and functional at any level of development and at any frantic dance tempo.

Dean was my mentor, with whom I could share my most intimate emotional troubles. In addition, I also had the privilege of often observing Dean teaching Swing, Tap, and the Shim Sham, all in which he excelled. My Hollywood Dance Club was where Dean taught his dance lessons, but Dean did not work for me; he was granted free access to my studio to teach at any hour of the day, without reservations.