About Lori Brizzi

As the creator and director of the New Jersey Hustle Congress, Lori Brizzi has been at the heart of the East Coast Hustle scene for more than two decades. Her passion, dedication, and vision have made this annual event one of the most anticipated gatherings for dancers from across the country — a true celebration of connection, community, and the joy of Hustle.

Lori Brizzi has been keeping Hustle dancing “Staying Alive” for over 23 years as the premier Hustle dance promoter in New York City — the birthplace of the Hustle!

Although one of the original Hustle dancers and teachers, Lori’s passion for keeping this iconic dance alive reignited at the turn of the new millennium — a time when Hustle was fading from the public scene and only danced in underground venues. Determined not to let it be lost as a “period dance” of the 70s and 80s, she set out to share its energy and excitement with younger generations.

Soon afterward, Lori created the Hustle Congress, the first event of its kind — bringing dancers together from across the country and around the world to celebrate Hustle. The very popular NY Hustle Congress will return for its 14th edition as part of the NYC Dance Experience in 2026, promising to be the best one yet.

In 2025, Lori successfully produced the Big Apple Hustle at the Hyatt Regency in Morristown, NJ — a vibrant event that drew dancers from across the East Coast for a night of competition, connection, and celebration. She is now preparing for The 4th NJ Hustle Congress, which will be held January 15–19, 2026, at the beautiful Newark Airport Marriott.

Her signature Hustle parties include the Millennium Dance Jam, held every 3rd Saturday, and the legendary Monday Night Hustle parties — both hosted at 412 in midtown Manhattan.

Teaching, Performing & Career Highlights

Voted Person of the Year eight times by readers of DanceTalk, the nation’s largest Hustle newsletter, Lori has built a reputation as one of the most passionate advocates for Hustle dancing in the country.

During her career as a competitor and performer, she has won numerous championships in International Latin, Theater Arts, and Cabaret, and is a three-time winner and two-time finalist of the legendary Zachary’s Dance Contest. She has performed with prestigious dance companies including American Ballroom Theater and Swing Dance America, and toured internationally as both teacher and performer on cruise ships around the world.

Lori has also taught Hustle at Lincoln Center’s Hustle Nights and performed at iconic venues such as The Rainbow Room, The Copacabana, and The Latin Quarter. She has made numerous TV and film appearances, including being featured for her contributions to the Hustle community in the documentary “Crime Cutz,” which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.

When not producing her own events, Lori travels as a teacher, judge, and emcee for Hustle events throughout the United States.

Awards & Achievements

Lori’s dedication to the dance world has earned her multiple honors and distinctions:

• Voted Person of the Year eight consecutive times by readers of DanceTalk.

• Winner of numerous dance championships in International Latin, Theater Arts, and Cabaret.

• Three-time winner and two-time finalist of the iconic Zachary’s Dance Contest.

• Inductee, Hustle Hall of Fame.

• Inductee, Disco America Hall of Fame.

• Recipient of the Christopher M. Nardone Outstanding Spirit of Giving Award.

• Recipient of a special recognition award from the New York Hustle Dance Community, presented in appreciation of her dedication, hard work, and for keeping dancers connected through her leadership and love of Hustle.

In the Spotlight

Lori is currently featured in several photo galleries as part of the Urban Stomp exhibition at the Museum of the City of New York, on display through February 2026 — a celebration of NYC’s vibrant dance legacy.

https://www.mcny.org/exhibition/urban-stomp

​

Through every project and every performance, Lori continues to inspire others to dance, connect, and celebrate the enduring rhythm of Hustle.

 Join us for the next unforgettable NJ Hustle Congress — January 15–19, 2026, at the Newark Airport Marriott — and be part of the dance family that keeps the Hustle alive!