Atomic Ballroom Partners with Visit Newport Beach for a Guinness World Records™ Attempt
Atomic Ballroom is proud to partner with Visit Newport Beach on Sunday, April 19th, for a FREE, exciting, and historic community event: an official Guinness World Records™ attempt for the Largest Swing Dance Lesson featuring Balboa, the iconic swing dance born right here in Newport Beach.
WHAT: World’s Largest Swing Dance Lesson. Learn the Balboa Swing, invented in Newport Beach during the Big Band era.
WHEN: Sunday, April 19
WHERE: Peninsula Park Athletic Field (next to Balboa Pier in Newport Beach, CA)
DRESS: Wear whatever you like, or step out in your Sunday swing best!
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
10:00– 11:00 am – Check-in Time & Live Music
11:15– 11:45 am – The official Guinness World Record Attempt (30 minutes)
- After, enjoy live music, food trucks, giveaways, and more.
- Reserve your spot today to be part of this historic attempt! Open to individuals or pairs—solo participants can be matched with a partner on site.
- No dance experience necessary. Ages 13 and up.
Meet the Teachers
The official lesson will be taught by Jeremy Otth and Tise Chao, world-renowned Balboa dancers and teachers who have dedicated their lives to preserving and sharing this uniquely Southern California dance. Both Jeremy and Tise have learned directly from the originators who danced at the Rendezvous Ballroom. Their work has helped keep Balboa alive and thriving for generations of dancers around the world.
What Is Balboa?
Balboa is a style of swing dance that originated on the Balboa Peninsula during the Big Band era. It began as a close-embrace dance designed for the crowded Rendezvous Ballroom, then evolved to include the turns, spins, and open movement called Bal-Swing. Its roots are deeply tied to Newport Beach and the legendary Rendezvous Ballroom, making this event a meaningful celebration of local history and culture.
Live Music
The event will feature live music by The Jonathan Stout Orchestra featuring Hilary Alexander. Band leaders and members of the orchestra are deeply connected to the Balboa tradition, making them the perfect band to help bring this historic dance to life.
About Atomic Ballroom
Located in Irvine, California, Atomic Ballroom is the country’s top social dance studio, offering regular Balboa and Lindy Hop classes every week. Co-owners Nikki and Mikey Klaus-Pedroza and Shesha Marvin are proud to partner with Visit Newport Beach on this special event. Atomic Ballroom instructors will be on site to help participants follow along. And yes, we specialize in two left feet.
This event is also endorsed by local historians, the Pacific Swing Dance Foundation, and the California Swing Dance Hall of Fame.
Join Us
Be part of history in the place where Balboa began. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this is your chance to celebrate Newport Beach heritage and help set a world record.
Join us and help make history — one step at a time.
Schedule of Events:
- 10:00 am – 11:00 am • Check-in Time & Live Music
- 11:15 am – 11:45 am • Lesson & Record Attempt
- 11:45 am – 12:30 pm • Judges’ Deliberation and Live Music