Local stars cut a rug, Broadway-style
Decked out in fancy costumes, local dancers showed off skilled moves Sept. 12 at the Willowbrook Ballroom in Willow Springs. They cut loose on the cha-cha, rhumba, two-step, foxtrot and more during the Chicagoland Fred Astaire Showcase.
More than 300 people attended the event to watch the "Give My Regards to Broadway"-themed show. Nearly a dozen dancers hailed from Northwest Indiana.
Dancers performed with instructors and, in some instances, with their significant others. There also were open dance segments allowing anyone to step up to the floor.
A definite feeling of excitement permeated the air as couples performed to tunes from shows such as "Phantom of the Opera," "Cabaret," "Annie Get Your Gun," "Mama Mia" and "Moulin Rouge."
Those watching the show also were treated to a performance by professional dancers. The showcase was held at the perfect time -- since ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" new season debuts Monday.
"There's no age limit when it comes to dancing," said Schererville resident Bill Davy, owner of Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Schererville and Tinley Park.
Davy, who's been in the business for 30 years, said he's noticed the demographics have changed in a big way in ballroom dancing.
"Thirty years ago, you'd see people 60 years of age and older interested in ballroom dancing. As time has progressed, the ages have gotten younger," he said.
At his studios, he's taught everyone from teens to students 80 years old.For mother and daughter Donna and Diana Gescheidler, of Hammond, dancing provides them with an activity they can enjoy together.
During the showcase, daughter Diana performed to "Annie Get Your Gun," with instructor Jake Thomas, of Lansing. Her mother Donna delivered two dances, entertaining the crowd with the lyrical pirate-themed number titled "Pirates of the Caribbean" and a sweeping dance to music from "Phantom of the Opera."
Diana said she got interested in ballroom because of her mother's interest in dance."I took beginner's lessons and fell in love with it," Diana said, adding her mother gave her a gift certificate for lessons at the Schererville studio."I leave everything else behind when I dance." Donna said. She's also immersed in another type of dancing as a performer with the Indiana Ballet Theater in Merrillville.
Former teacher Rae Ann Ostenberg, of Crown Point, became so enamored of the craft she now owns a Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Burr Ridge."I was a public school teacher in the Crown Point school system for 23 years," she said. After a dramatic change in her life circumstances, Ostenberg decided to pursue her interest in dance.Maggie Cole, 14, of Munster, got bit by the dance bug after watching "Dancing with the Stars" on TV.
Cole, who performed to the soundtrack from "Mama Mia," said her mother, who is a personal trainer and diabetes educator, encouraged her to take lessons. "When I dance, it makes me feel happy," Cole said.
Other region ballroom terpsichoreans who performed at Willowbrook include:
* Charlene McCormick, Crown Point, is thrilled to trade in her business attire whenever she takes to the dance floor. A real estate agent dolled up as a flapper, McCormick pulled out all the stops during the showcase with her "Sweet Charity" number, which she performed with instructor Keith Clinton, of Valparaiso.
* Debbie Davy, Lansing, is sister to Bill Davy, who owns the two Fred Astaire dance studios. Davy, who is a nurse in the plastic and reconstructive surgery department at University of Chicago Hospital, started taking lessons four years ago at her brother's behest.
* Michael and Tamra Kenney, Schererville, decided to take ballroom dance lessons as a couple. She is a first grade teacher who "always loved to dance," and he is an executive compensation consultant who said taking lessons has given them a chance to enjoy the activity as a team.
* Madeline and Donald Casson, Dyer, performed a Viennese waltz to the lilting "Edelweiss," from the "Sound of Music." They started dancing two years ago -- and have been married for two years. Madeline is an accountant in Tinley Park, and Donald is a commercial garbage-truck driver for Allied Waste in Crestwood.
* Rick Strohl, Schererville, started to dance to "call my wife's bluff" when she hinted he ought to try it. Strohl said it's good exercise, a great stress reliever -- and fun.
* Becky Lovall, Highland, has only been cutting the rug in class for the past four months and says "it's a blast."
FYI: Fred Astaire Dance Studio, 121 E. Joliet St., Schererville (219) 322-5880 or 7901 W. 159th St., Tinley Park (219) 444-0123.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Cleveland Dancesport Challenge
Chris & SimonaThis weekend at the Cleveland Dancesport Challenge, Fred Astaire Dance Studios were sitting pretty at the top of the heap! Aaron and Jaana from the Chicago North Studio placed first in all dances from a semi-final in the Open American Rhythm division. Chris and Simona, also from the Chicago North Studio, placed second in all dances from a semi-final in the Open American Smooth division. And Vladimir and Vera from the Buffalo Studio took straight firsts in the American Smooth Division. Thanks to all dancers for representing the Fred Astaire Organization so well!
Aaron & Jaana
Monday, September 22, 2008
It's All About The Chemistry
Success can turn on the couples' chemistry
BY JULIE HINDS, FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER
How important is the right partner in ballroom dancing?
It's a crucial element, according to Fabian Sanchez, who was Marlee Matlin's partner last season on ABC's "Dancing With the Stars."
Sanchez, who has a Fred Astaire dance studio in a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, compares dancing to marriage.
"If there's no chemistry, it shows all over," he says. "I'd rather see a couple that has great chemistry and you believe their story than to see two amazingly talented technical dancers who have no chemistry."
Although Sanchez isn't part of the "Dancing" cast this season, he thinks the new lineup of talent sounds "awesome."
He's excited to see Corky Ballas join the pro dancers and curious to see how 82-year-old Cloris Leachman does under his tutelage.
"She's a little firecracker, from what I've heard," he says.
He thinks former boy band star Lance Bass, with his pop music background, and Kim Kardashian, who's young and striking, could do well.
And he wonders if Warren Sapp will follow in the footsteps of another football dancing king.
"He could surprise everybody and be another Emmitt Smith," says Sanchez. "Emmitt could get down, man."
Contact JULIE HINDS at 313-222-6427 or jhinds@freepress.com.
BY JULIE HINDS, FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER
How important is the right partner in ballroom dancing?
It's a crucial element, according to Fabian Sanchez, who was Marlee Matlin's partner last season on ABC's "Dancing With the Stars."
Sanchez, who has a Fred Astaire dance studio in a suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, compares dancing to marriage.
"If there's no chemistry, it shows all over," he says. "I'd rather see a couple that has great chemistry and you believe their story than to see two amazingly talented technical dancers who have no chemistry."
Although Sanchez isn't part of the "Dancing" cast this season, he thinks the new lineup of talent sounds "awesome."
He's excited to see Corky Ballas join the pro dancers and curious to see how 82-year-old Cloris Leachman does under his tutelage.
"She's a little firecracker, from what I've heard," he says.
He thinks former boy band star Lance Bass, with his pop music background, and Kim Kardashian, who's young and striking, could do well.
And he wonders if Warren Sapp will follow in the footsteps of another football dancing king.
"He could surprise everybody and be another Emmitt Smith," says Sanchez. "Emmitt could get down, man."
Contact JULIE HINDS at 313-222-6427 or jhinds@freepress.com.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Dancing With The Stars Tampa Bay
Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Florida, along with Heartbeat International, are gearing up for "Dancing With The Stars Tampa Bay" on Thursday, November 6th, 6:30-11:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Vinoy's Palm Court Ballroom in St. Petersburg, Florida.
This black-tie event is patterned after ABC's Dancing With The Stars where local community leaders from the Tampa Bay area are paired with professional ballroom instructors for a dazzling event. Performances will be judged by national and international ballroom competition adjudicators, combined with live audience votes. American Rhythm Champions and Dancing With The Stars celeb dancers Tony Dovolani and Elena Grinenko will be joining this year's event.
This black-tie event is patterned after ABC's Dancing With The Stars where local community leaders from the Tampa Bay area are paired with professional ballroom instructors for a dazzling event. Performances will be judged by national and international ballroom competition adjudicators, combined with live audience votes. American Rhythm Champions and Dancing With The Stars celeb dancers Tony Dovolani and Elena Grinenko will be joining this year's event.
Dance Revolution In Tampa Bay
Read this excerpt from a Baynews9.com article about the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Palm Harbor, Florida:
"At Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Palm Harbor, Ballroom dancing is on the menu, and Tampa Bay on Demand's Virginia Johnson sampled some of the following entrees."Latin dancing, swing dancing, fox trot, tango waltzes, rumba cha-cha, swing, mambo salsa, samba - you name it we teach it all," explained co-owner Carol Elliot.
Twice a month-the dance studio throws a ballroom party complete with champagne, a free group lesson and a professional floorshow.
"It's wonderful-- you don't realize the muscles you aren't using until you start dancing," says student J. Paul Pepin of Tampa.Together instructors and co-owners Fletcher and Carol Elliott have nearly four decades of experience... "We can take anybody and teach them how to dance," assured Fletcher, and after a quick shoe change, and we are that anybody!"
Click here to read more.
"At Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Palm Harbor, Ballroom dancing is on the menu, and Tampa Bay on Demand's Virginia Johnson sampled some of the following entrees."Latin dancing, swing dancing, fox trot, tango waltzes, rumba cha-cha, swing, mambo salsa, samba - you name it we teach it all," explained co-owner Carol Elliot.
Twice a month-the dance studio throws a ballroom party complete with champagne, a free group lesson and a professional floorshow.
"It's wonderful-- you don't realize the muscles you aren't using until you start dancing," says student J. Paul Pepin of Tampa.Together instructors and co-owners Fletcher and Carol Elliott have nearly four decades of experience... "We can take anybody and teach them how to dance," assured Fletcher, and after a quick shoe change, and we are that anybody!"
Click here to read more.
Students from Milwaukee Central Studio Shine at USDC
Two students from the Milwaukee Central studio had great showings at this year’s United States Dance Championships in Orlando, Florida. Both students – Sarah Haworth and Susan Miller – showed the rest of the country that dancing the “Fred Astaire” way leads you to the top!
Susan Miller also did very well at the USDC. Dancing with Arshakian, Susan placed 4th in International Latin and 2nd in American Rhythm (B division). She has danced for the past seven years, participating in every regional and national Fred Astaire event during that time. It’s hard to believe that she was reluctant to take lessons at first! In fact, it was her husband who originally encouraged her to go for it, and now she hates to leave the dance floor. Susan was the 2005 US American Rhythm Champion in her division and has won top student awards for the past four years. At this year’s 2008 Emerald Ball, she won second place in Latin (C division). Well known as the best-groomed lady on the dance floor around the country, Susan is a joy to dance with. “As an instructor, I wish every teacher would have a student like Susan,” Arshakian says, “She doesn’t let anything stop her from becoming the dancer that she wants to be.” Susan dedicates her dances to the memory of her late-husband, Robert, who was “her best friend and best supporter,” Albina Habrle owner of the Milwaukee Central studio, notes.
Sarah Haworth, with her partner Hayk Arshakian, came away from the USDC with first place wins in American Rhythm and International Latin (A division). She also came in second place in Pro/Am South American Show Dance. It was a remarkable achievement considering that she is only seventeen years old! Sarah became interested in ballroom after seeing how much fun her parents were having taking lessons at the Milwaukee Central studio; she began dancing 2 ½ years ago and hasn’t stopped yet! At this year’s Emerald Ball, she placed first in American Rhythm (A) and Open Latin (A) and at the 2007 Ohio Star Ball, she won the World Pro/Am Junior International Latin and World Pro/Am Junior American Rhythm Championships. Arshakian is proud of his partner: “Anything Sarah does, she does perfectly.” A straight-A student and captain of her high school’s color guard team, she has also started a popular ballroom dance club in her school. Her future aspirations include becoming a professional dancer and eventually owning her own studio.
Congratulations to both Sarah and Susan! You did a terrific job of representing the Fred Astaire organization and we value and appreciate your commitment to dance!
Susan Miller also did very well at the USDC. Dancing with Arshakian, Susan placed 4th in International Latin and 2nd in American Rhythm (B division). She has danced for the past seven years, participating in every regional and national Fred Astaire event during that time. It’s hard to believe that she was reluctant to take lessons at first! In fact, it was her husband who originally encouraged her to go for it, and now she hates to leave the dance floor. Susan was the 2005 US American Rhythm Champion in her division and has won top student awards for the past four years. At this year’s 2008 Emerald Ball, she won second place in Latin (C division). Well known as the best-groomed lady on the dance floor around the country, Susan is a joy to dance with. “As an instructor, I wish every teacher would have a student like Susan,” Arshakian says, “She doesn’t let anything stop her from becoming the dancer that she wants to be.” Susan dedicates her dances to the memory of her late-husband, Robert, who was “her best friend and best supporter,” Albina Habrle owner of the Milwaukee Central studio, notes.
Sarah Haworth, with her partner Hayk Arshakian, came away from the USDC with first place wins in American Rhythm and International Latin (A division). She also came in second place in Pro/Am South American Show Dance. It was a remarkable achievement considering that she is only seventeen years old! Sarah became interested in ballroom after seeing how much fun her parents were having taking lessons at the Milwaukee Central studio; she began dancing 2 ½ years ago and hasn’t stopped yet! At this year’s Emerald Ball, she placed first in American Rhythm (A) and Open Latin (A) and at the 2007 Ohio Star Ball, she won the World Pro/Am Junior International Latin and World Pro/Am Junior American Rhythm Championships. Arshakian is proud of his partner: “Anything Sarah does, she does perfectly.” A straight-A student and captain of her high school’s color guard team, she has also started a popular ballroom dance club in her school. Her future aspirations include becoming a professional dancer and eventually owning her own studio.
Congratulations to both Sarah and Susan! You did a terrific job of representing the Fred Astaire organization and we value and appreciate your commitment to dance!
Fred Astaire D.C. Studio's Spotlight & Trophy Award
Fred Astaire Spotlight & Trophy Awards at the Washington, D.C. Studio
When:
Saturday, September 20th, 2008
Tentative Schedule – subject to change:
3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Registration & Practice
3:30 to 4:30 p.m. – Act I
4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. – Break - Open Dancing
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Act II
6:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. – Trophy Awards
6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. – Appetizers & Beverages
6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. - Open Dancing
8:15 p.m. - Professional Shows & Good Night Waltz
Where:
8315 Lee Highway, Suite 201
Pricing:
Spotlight package $175
Spectator tickets $20
Dress:
Smart casual
When:
Saturday, September 20th, 2008
Tentative Schedule – subject to change:
3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Registration & Practice
3:30 to 4:30 p.m. – Act I
4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. – Break - Open Dancing
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Act II
6:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. – Trophy Awards
6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. – Appetizers & Beverages
6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. - Open Dancing
8:15 p.m. - Professional Shows & Good Night Waltz
Where:
8315 Lee Highway, Suite 201
Pricing:
Spotlight package $175
Spectator tickets $20
Dress:
Smart casual
Monday, September 15, 2008
Fred Astaire Studio in Memphis, TN Hosts "Dancing With the Docs"
The Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Memphis, TN, along with Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, will host its second "Dancing with the Docs" fundraiser on October 10 at 7:30 p.m. at The Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $30 can be bought at the hospital or studio. All proceeds will benefit Le Bonheur's Cardiac Kids Camp, a week-long summer camp for children with cardiac-related diagnoses.
Minnesota Studio Kicks Into High Gear for National Ballroom Dance Week
The Fred Astaire studio in Rochester, Minnesota is celebrating the National Ballroom Dance Week in a big way from September 13-28! The National Ballroom Dance Week has been celebrated every September by dance clubs and studios across the country for almost 20 years. Its purpose is to increase awareness of the many mental, physical, and emotional benefits of ballroom dancing.
Staff and students from the Rochester studio are putting on a show at Century High School on Saturday, September 20th at 1 p.m. The theme is "A Tribute to Hollywood" and will feature performances danced to music from the silver screen. Tickets are $10 and proceeds will be donated to the high school's theater department.
The rest of the week will be filled with many public performances, social dances, and free classes for all dance levels. The closing events on Friday, September 26th include two free group classes at the studio.
Is dancing for you? Now is the time to find out! Look at the following list of events at the studio to find something suited just for you:
Tuesday, September 16
Adult Open House, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Monday, September 22
Youth Open House, 6:15-7:00 p.m.
Dancing With The Stars Kickoff Party, 7-9:00 p.m.
Intermediate Salsa/Swing Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Intro to Nightclub 2 Step Class, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 23
Dancing With The Stars Party, 7-9:00 p.m.
Beginner's Salsa/Swing Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Practice Party, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 24
Youth Open House, 6:15-7:00 p.m.
Dancing With The Stars Party, 7-9:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 25
Beginner's Salsa/Merengue Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Adult Open House, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Friday, September 26
Adv. Salsa/Swing Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Poise & Posture Class, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Staff and students from the Rochester studio are putting on a show at Century High School on Saturday, September 20th at 1 p.m. The theme is "A Tribute to Hollywood" and will feature performances danced to music from the silver screen. Tickets are $10 and proceeds will be donated to the high school's theater department.
The rest of the week will be filled with many public performances, social dances, and free classes for all dance levels. The closing events on Friday, September 26th include two free group classes at the studio.
Is dancing for you? Now is the time to find out! Look at the following list of events at the studio to find something suited just for you:
Tuesday, September 16
Adult Open House, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Monday, September 22
Youth Open House, 6:15-7:00 p.m.
Dancing With The Stars Kickoff Party, 7-9:00 p.m.
Intermediate Salsa/Swing Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Intro to Nightclub 2 Step Class, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 23
Dancing With The Stars Party, 7-9:00 p.m.
Beginner's Salsa/Swing Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Practice Party, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 24
Youth Open House, 6:15-7:00 p.m.
Dancing With The Stars Party, 7-9:00 p.m.
Thursday, September 25
Beginner's Salsa/Merengue Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Adult Open House, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Friday, September 26
Adv. Salsa/Swing Class, 7-7:45 p.m.
Poise & Posture Class, 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Ballroom Dance Helps With Age-Related Memory Loss
According to a recent article, if you're tired of forgetting where you put your car keys or forgetting the name of a recent book you've read, there is something you can do about it...take up ballroom dancing! A study of 469 New Yorkers identified 4 pursuits that seemed most successful in fighting age-related memory loss: reading, playing a musical instrument, playing games, and ballroom dancing. Each reduced the risk of developing dementia by 63% with dancing offering the most benefit! Dr. Joe Verghese, one of the study's co-authors, is quoted in the article as saying: "There is a lot of mental effort in ballroom dancing. It requires coordination with your partner, it requires remembering steps. You have to follow the music." Click here to read more.
Night of the Dancing Stars
The Night of the Dancing Stars in Clemmons, North Carolina raised $8149 for the American Cancer Society. Dancers at the Fred Astaire studios in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Clemmons helped make this event a great success! Click here to view some clips of the performances.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
"Red Carpet" Bridal Event
On Thursday, September 25, "An Elegant Engagement," an upscale red carpet bridal event, will take place at Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, MA. From 6-9 p.m., engaged couples can view a variety of wedding vendors, including wedding invitations and jewelers. The Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Plymouth is one of the sponsors. Dance studio owner Casey Baird and manager Forrest Burke-Moran will give away a ballroom dance instruction package during a scavenger hunt designed to entice brides and grooms to stop at each vendor's table. Click here to read more.
Toni Braxton Dancing Despite Heart Disease
Singer Toni Braxton is one of the upcoming celebrities taking a turn on the dance floor in this fall's Dancing With The Stars. According to an Access Hollywood article, Toni was diagnosed with heart disease five years ago and had a health scare last April. She signed up to do DWTS, determined to overcome the anxiety she has had about her health. Click here to read the full article.
NJ Fred Astaire Dance Studios Present 2008 Showcase "Jersey Boys"
The Fred Astaire Dance Studios of New Jersey will be presenting their Annual Showcase “Jersey Boys” at the Bergen County Technology School Theatre, 200 Hackensack Avenue, Hackensack, New Jersey 07601, this Saturday, September 13, 2008, at 6:30 PM.
Studios participating are the Fred Astaire Studios of Montville, Morristown, Red Bank, Upper Montclair and Westwood. Many exciting numbers will be performed by top ranked students in the nation with their fabulous professional instructors in ACT I and ACT II, one of which is Kostadin Bidjourov, Former United States American Smooth Finalist and Former United States Theatrical Arts Champion.
ACT III will be the highlight of the evening. The TOP PROFESSIONALS OF THE NATION will be performing to the music of “JERSEY BOYS”, some of which are Ilya Ifraimov and Nadia Goulina, 2006 -2008 United States International Latin Finalists, Greg Fidurski and Gabriela Jileva, 2008 United States Open Rising Star International Standard Finalists, Christina Penatello, (Former United States and World Mambo Champion, who was partnered by "Dancing With The Stars" Fabian Sanchez), dancing with her father, Charles Penatello, (Former Undefeated United States American Smooth and Rhythm Champion and America’s World Cup Champion) and many other wonderful professionals.
CHOREOGRAPHY OF ACT I & ACT II BY: Stephen Knight, Former United States American Rhythm Finalist, National Choreographer, Owner of the Fred Astaire Wisconsin Region, and National Adjudicator. Mr. Knight will make an appearance.
CHOREOGRAPHY OF ACT III BY: Bruno Collins, Former United States American Rhythm Champion, World British Exhibition Champion, National Choreographer, Owner of the Fred Astaire Florida Region, and World Adjudicator. Mr. Collins will also make an appearance.
Tickets are on sale for $25.00 per person. To reserve your seats, please contact Brittany Matthews at (732) 741-4188. Tickets are also being sold at the theatre the day of the performance. Join us for an evening of fun and entertainment.
Studios participating are the Fred Astaire Studios of Montville, Morristown, Red Bank, Upper Montclair and Westwood. Many exciting numbers will be performed by top ranked students in the nation with their fabulous professional instructors in ACT I and ACT II, one of which is Kostadin Bidjourov, Former United States American Smooth Finalist and Former United States Theatrical Arts Champion.
ACT III will be the highlight of the evening. The TOP PROFESSIONALS OF THE NATION will be performing to the music of “JERSEY BOYS”, some of which are Ilya Ifraimov and Nadia Goulina, 2006 -2008 United States International Latin Finalists, Greg Fidurski and Gabriela Jileva, 2008 United States Open Rising Star International Standard Finalists, Christina Penatello, (Former United States and World Mambo Champion, who was partnered by "Dancing With The Stars" Fabian Sanchez), dancing with her father, Charles Penatello, (Former Undefeated United States American Smooth and Rhythm Champion and America’s World Cup Champion) and many other wonderful professionals.
CHOREOGRAPHY OF ACT I & ACT II BY: Stephen Knight, Former United States American Rhythm Finalist, National Choreographer, Owner of the Fred Astaire Wisconsin Region, and National Adjudicator. Mr. Knight will make an appearance.
CHOREOGRAPHY OF ACT III BY: Bruno Collins, Former United States American Rhythm Champion, World British Exhibition Champion, National Choreographer, Owner of the Fred Astaire Florida Region, and World Adjudicator. Mr. Collins will also make an appearance.
Tickets are on sale for $25.00 per person. To reserve your seats, please contact Brittany Matthews at (732) 741-4188. Tickets are also being sold at the theatre the day of the performance. Join us for an evening of fun and entertainment.
USDSC 2008 Winner's Circle
Many Fred Astaire professional competitors danced their way to the top at the 2008 United States Dance Championships in Orlando, Florida, including:
Fred Astaire National Dance Board member Riccardo Cocchi with his partner Yulia Zagoruychenko won first place in the Open Professional Latin, International Latin, and South American Show Dance Championships.
Instructors from the Fred Astaire studio in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida swept the Cabaret and World Cabaret divisions: Eric Luna and Georgia Ambarian won first place and Jesse Benedetti and Kimalee Piedad won second place.
Ilya Ifraimov and Nadia Goulina, owners of the Fred Astaire studio in Montville, NJ, won 6th place in the International Latin Championships and 3rd place in South American Show Dance.
Greg Fidurski and Gabriela Jileva, owners of the Fred Astaire studio in Morristown, NJ, placed 2nd in the Rising Star International Standard Division and 6th in the Open Rising Star International Standard division. They also won 2nd place in the Classic Show Dance Championships.
Fred Astaire studio instructors Mikhail Zharinov and Galina Detkina won 4th place in the Smooth Dance Championships and 3rd place in the Rising Star Smooth division.
From one of the Fred Astaire studios in Chicago, Aaron DeSoto with partner Jaana Lillemagi came in 6th in the Rising Star Rhythm competition.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Did You Know?
Misty May-Treanor is so serious about her upcoming role on this season's Dancing With The Stars that she has been watching snippets of old Fred Astaire-Ginger Rogers movies on YouTube!
Congratulations Tony Dovolani!
Fred Astaire champion dancer and Dancing With The Stars pro Tony Dovolani has two new dance students...his newborn twins: Adrian and Ariana. "We are so happy, I can't stop smiling," Dovolani told People Magazine. His wife, Lina, went into labor when he was practicing with his new dance partner, soap star Susan Lucci. Initially feeling bad about cutting the practice short, Lucci forced him into action. "She told me, 'What are you waiting for? Go!'" Dovolani exclaimed while imitating his dance partner's reaction. Click here to read more.
Monday, September 08, 2008
"Groovability" Dancers Dismiss Their Disability
A group of wheelchair ballroom dancers in Kansas City, MO have formed a nonprofit alternative dance organization called Groovability. According to a recent news article in the Kansas City Star, the Groovability dancers have given exhibitions at local studios and at able-bodied competitions from Nebraska to the St. Louis Star Ball. According to JoAnne Fluke, a 32-year-old vibrant woman with caudal regression, "I don't see my disability when I'm dancing...I see me." Click here to read the full article.
Fred Astaire Studio In Westwood, NJ Wins Top Honors
In a summer issue of the Bergen Record (the biggest newspaper in Bergen County, NJ), the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Westwood, NJ was honored as "Best Adult Dancing Lessons." Renata Kucieba, owner of the studio, explained that "every woman wants a guy who can dance." The most requested dances in her studio feature Latin rhythms, such as the Maranga, Salsa, and Cha-Cha. According to the article, "Kucieba...feels her greatest satisfaction came the night one married couple informed her they were no longer considering divorce...[Renata explains]: 'In today's career world, couples often find themselves torn in different directions. Dancing is a wonderful hobby for married couples. It brings them together and they love when it comes to touching each other.'"
Friday, September 05, 2008
The Timeliness of Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers
In debating the importance of classic black and white vs. color films in this article, the importance of Fred Astaire-Ginger Rogers movies was mentioned:
"As for musicals, sure, you can name glorious Technicolor examples—adaptations of Broadway fare like The Music Man, My Fair Lady, and Oliver!, along with such originals as Singin’ in the Rain and An American in Paris. Yet even these take second place to nine black-and-white Fred Astaire–Ginger Rogers movies. Almost every great songwriter journeyed west to work with Astaire in the pre-color period, among them Irving Berlin, the Gershwins, and Cole Porter. Berlin, usually parsimonious with praise, said, 'You give Fred Astaire a song, and you could forget about it. If he did change anything, he made it better.'
So did Rogers. Astaire danced with other women in other movies, but the magic was no longer there. No matter how farcical or chaotic the plot, Astaire and Rogers established an island of elegance and passion. Their dancing 'was a vehicle of serious emotion between a man and a woman,' dance critic Arlene Croce observed. 'It never happened in the movies again.'"
"As for musicals, sure, you can name glorious Technicolor examples—adaptations of Broadway fare like The Music Man, My Fair Lady, and Oliver!, along with such originals as Singin’ in the Rain and An American in Paris. Yet even these take second place to nine black-and-white Fred Astaire–Ginger Rogers movies. Almost every great songwriter journeyed west to work with Astaire in the pre-color period, among them Irving Berlin, the Gershwins, and Cole Porter. Berlin, usually parsimonious with praise, said, 'You give Fred Astaire a song, and you could forget about it. If he did change anything, he made it better.'
So did Rogers. Astaire danced with other women in other movies, but the magic was no longer there. No matter how farcical or chaotic the plot, Astaire and Rogers established an island of elegance and passion. Their dancing 'was a vehicle of serious emotion between a man and a woman,' dance critic Arlene Croce observed. 'It never happened in the movies again.'"
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Dance Movies
You can watch beautiful dancing on the big or small screen! Pick and choose from this list of some of the best dance movies ever produced, taken from DanceHelp.com:
A Chorus Line (1985): This film is a look into the life of a classic jazz dancer who is auditioning for a part in the Broadway show. A director is casting dancers for a large production from numbers of dancers who audition. As the competition gets harder and is narrowed to a few dancers who compete for spots in the production. Rated PG-13.
All That Jazz (1979): Directed, written and choreographed by Bob Fosse, who depicts his own life story as a womanizing and drug-using, jazz dancer. Starring Roy Scheider and Jessica Lange. Rated R.
Billy Elliot (2000): A talented young boy becomes torn between his unexpected adoration of dance and the collapse of his family. With Jamie Bell, Jean Heywood, Jamie Draven. Rated PG-13.
Body Rock (1984): Chilly (Lorenzo Lamas) has a talent for break-dancing. When his moves catch notice of an industry professional, Chilly finds his dreams of fame and riches coming true, for better or for worse. Rated PG-13.
Breakin’ (1984): A struggling young jazz dancer (Lucinda Dickey) meets up with two break-dancers and they grow to be the sensation of the street crowds. Rated PG.
Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogoloo (1984): A developer tries to tear down a neighborhood recreation center to build on. The local kids and break-dancers try to stop it. Rated PG.
Bring it On (2000): Starring Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku and Gabrielle Union. A champion high school cheerleading/dance squad discovers its prior captain stole all their top routines from an inner-city school and must scramble to battle at this year's championships. Rated PG-13.
Burn the Floor (1999): An explosive voyage through dance featuring several of the world's champion ballroom and Latin dancers. Rated PG-13.
Cabaret (1972): Directed by Bob Fosse, starring Liza Minelli. An American cabaret dancer, working at the downtown "Kit-Kat club" where anything goes on the stage, comes into contact with several characters that take her on a journey. Rated PG.
Center Stage (2000): Starring Amanda Schull, Ethan Stiefel, Sasha Radetsky and Zoe Saldana and featuring Julie Kent. A story of a young ballet dancer who follows her dreams and gets into the American Ballet Academy of New York (that feeds into New York’s finest ballet company). Her trials and hardships in dance and in her love life take her on a journey… A must see for ballet lovers. Rated PG-13.
Damn Yankees! (1958): Starring Gwen Verdon, a Washington Senators fan who makes a pact with the Devil to help his baseball squad win the league pennant. Rated PG.
Dance Academy (1988): Choreographed by Dennon and Sayhber Rawles. Vince stumbles into a dance school, when he becomes entranced and joins. The school's manager, is about to throw him out for shenanigans when Moon, the school's unruly new jazz instructor, vouches for him. Rated PG.
Dance With Me (1998): Vanessa Williams, Chayanne, and Kris Kristofferson star. A Cuban boy comes to America to meet his dancer father, who has no idea he exists. Rated PG.
Dancemaker (1999): A documentary about dancing students that unravel the hardships of dance as a profession. Rated PG.
Dancers (1987): Allesandra Ferri and Mikhail Baryshnikov star in this drama about the life of dancers as they embark on a romance. Rated PG.
Danzòn (1991): Julia (Maria Rojo) is a telephone operator who divides her time between her career, her daughter and the Danzòn: a Cuban dance that is very popular in Mexico and Central America. Rated PG-13.
Dirty Dancing (1987): A classic starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray. Spending the summer in camp with her family, Frances ('Baby') falls head over heels for the dancing instructor. A must see for all dance lovers. Rated PG-13.
Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004): Part two to the classic “Dirty Dancing.” An American girl and her parents arrive in Cuba right before the Revolution breaks out. She meets a local boy who instantly notices her dancing abilities and romances her. But as Castro's forces are forcing Americans to leave the country, will she stay or will she go? Rated PG-13.
Do You Wanna Dance? (1999): A comedy about a poor boy who aims to win over a well-to-do girl despite her parents' opposition (in the background of modern and traditional Greek dancing). Rated PG-13.
Fame (1980): At the New York City High School for the Performing Arts, students get expert training that often leads to success as dancers, singers, etc. This movie follows four students from the moment they audition to get into the school, through the time they graduate. Rated R.
Fast Forward (1985): A musical about eight dancers from Ohio, who come to New York, to compete in a major talent competition... Rated PG.
Flamenco (1975): A close-up look at the passionate and hard working life of Flamenco Dancers. Rated PG-13.
Flashdance (1983): A struggling Pittsburgh woman with two occupations as a welder and an exotic dancer wants to get into ballet school. Rated R.
Footloose (1984): Starring Kevin Bacon, Ariel Moore and featuring Sarah Jessica Parker. A city boy comes to a small religious town where rock music and dancing have been forbidden and banned. Rated R.
Hairspray (2007): Starring John Travolta, Amanda Bynes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Britney Snow and newcomer Nikki Blonsky as Tracy Turnblad. Pleasantly plump teenager Tracy Turnblad teaches 1962 Baltimore a thing or two about integration after landing a spot on a local TV dance show. Rated PG.
Honey (2003): Starring Jessica Alba. Honey (Alba) is a sexy, tough music video choreographer who’s life is shaken up after her mentor gives her an ultimatum: sleep with him or be blacklisted in the dance industry. Rated PG-13.
How She Move (2007): Following her sister's passing away from drugs, a high school student is forced to depart her private school to go back to her old, crime-filled neighborhood where she reawakens an dubious passion for step dancing. Rated PG-13.
Lambada (1990): Kevin Laird is a Beverly Hills teacher by day and a mystery man by night who uses Lambada dance moves to first earn the school kid's respect, in order to teach them academics. But when a jealous student exposes Kevin's dual life, his two worlds crash, threatening his employment and reputation. Rated PG-13.
Mad Hot Ballroom (2005): A documentary about the students of several New York City elementary schools learn ballroom dancing and compete in a city wide dance competition. Rated PG.
Planet B-Boy (2008): A documentary look at the history of break-dancing’s influencing urban cultures around the world. Unrated.
Rize (2005): A documentary. Rize chronicles one of the newest forms of original dance that arises out of South Central Los Angeles with roots in clowning and street moves. Rated PG-13.
Roll Bounce (2005): Starring Bow Wow and Nick Cannon: a film with the backdrop of the 1970s roller-skating rival kids at the local rink. Rated PG-13.
Roseland (1977): "Roseland" is made up of three intertwining stories, all set in the renowned New York dance palace with one thing in common: finding the right dance partner.
Salsa (1988): A movie that is all about Salsa, passion and performing. Rated PG.
Saturday Night Fever (1977): Starring John Travolta. A young Brooklyn man feels his only opportunity to get somewhere is as king of the disco dance floor. Rated R.
Save the Last Dance (2001): Starring Julie Stiles and Derek Reynolds. A white Mid-western girl moves to Chicago, where her new boyfriend is a black teen from the South Side with a rough, semi-criminal past. She comes from a ballet background and dreams of getting into Julliard and he comes from a hip hop street style background, when their world’s collide so does their dancing. Rated PG-13.
Shall We Dance? (2004): Starring Richard Gere, Jennifer Lopez and Susan Sarandon. A workaholic takes an unexpected turn when he follows a beautiful woman to a Chicago dance studio and becomes a ballroom dancer. Rated PG-13.
Shall We Dance? (1997): This is the original version of the Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez movie in Japanese with English sub text.
Showgirls (1995): A young girl pushes her way to the top of Vegas as a Vegas Showgirl despite the hardships thrown in her path. Rated R.
Stayin’ Alive (1983): A documentary: "Stayin' Alive" launched disco fever which endured through the last quarter of the 20th century and into the new millennium.
Step Up (2006): A troubled teen commits a crime and is sentenced to community service in a dance school where he falls in love with dance and a girl. Rated PG-13.
Step Up 2: The Streets (2008): Romantic sparks occur between two dance students from different backgrounds at the Maryland School of the Arts. Rated PG-13.
Stepping Out (1991): Featuring Liza Minnelli, an incredibly entertaining “feel-good” dance film for the whole family to enjoy. Rated PG.
Stomp the Yard (2007): Starring Columbus Short and Meagan Good, featuring Ne-Yo. A troubled street dancer from Los Angeles is able to avoid juvenile hall by enrolling in college. But his efforts are sidelined when he is courted by the top two fraternities, both of which want and need his street-style dance moves to win the national step show competition. Rated PG-13.
Strictly Ballroom (1992): A comedy about competitive ballroom dancing between an unorthodox male ballroom dancer and a mousy girl that musters up enough courage to join him in his quest to blaze a trail into ballroom dancing despite the cynicism surrounding them.
Swing (2003): The story of a generational clash between a father and son about the conventional work life and following a dream. The music is hot, the dancing exciting, and the story lovely. Rated PG-13.
Swing Kids (1993): The story of a group of youth in Nazi Germany who listen and dance to forbidden swing regardless of the consequences. Rated PG-13.
Take the Lead (2006): Starring Antonio Banderas. The story of a dance teacher who believes in the talent of a group of problem kids he is required to teach. Rated PG-13.
Tango (1998): Mario is a tango dancer in his forties, whose wife has left him. He becomes inspired to make a film about tango. Rated PG-13.
Tap (1989): Starring the late Gregory Hines. Just released from prison, Max Washington must decide which of his earlier professions to return to: burglary or tap dancing. Rated PG-13.
That’s Dancing! (1985): The history of dance documented on film. Rated G.
The Company (2003): Starring Neve Cambell. A drama centered around ballet dancers, with a focus on one dancer (Campbell) who's poised to become a principal dancer. Rated PG-13.
The Forbidden Dance (1990): LAMBADA...If it got any hotter, it wouldn't be dancing! PG-13.
The In Crowd (1988): A young man of the rock and roll generation in his senior year of high school successfully gets on a popular teen dance television show and becomes a star. As he lives his new life, he finds adoring fans, jealous rivals, bitter friends left behind, and the girl of his dreams...his dance partner. Rated PG.
The Red Shoes (1948): A musical ballet of a girl who can’t stop dancing and dances until she goes mad and drops! Rated G.
The Tango Lesson (1997): A young girl meets a tango dancer on a trip to Paris, she meets him again in Buenos Aires some years later as they develop in love and in dance. Rated PG.
The Turning Point (1977): Possibly one of the most famous ballet movies of our time starring Shirley MacLaine and Anne Bancroft. When her daughter joins a ballet company, a former dancer is forced to confront her long-ago decision to give up the stage to have a family. Enjoy some great ballet scenes from dancer Leslie Brown. Rated PG.
White Nights (1985): Starring Mikhail Baryshnikov. An expatriate Russian dancer is on a plane forced to land on Soviet territory. He is faced with an opportunity to defect from Russia to the USA with the help of a US citizen he comes in contact with. He can become a dancer for the Bolshoi again back in Russia, but he chooses to escape to dance in America. Rated PG-13.
You Got Served (2004): In order to achieve their dream of opening a recording studio, two friends must first win their city's dance contest: a street style competition that pits them against a group of tough street dancers. Rated PG-13.
A Chorus Line (1985): This film is a look into the life of a classic jazz dancer who is auditioning for a part in the Broadway show. A director is casting dancers for a large production from numbers of dancers who audition. As the competition gets harder and is narrowed to a few dancers who compete for spots in the production. Rated PG-13.
All That Jazz (1979): Directed, written and choreographed by Bob Fosse, who depicts his own life story as a womanizing and drug-using, jazz dancer. Starring Roy Scheider and Jessica Lange. Rated R.
Billy Elliot (2000): A talented young boy becomes torn between his unexpected adoration of dance and the collapse of his family. With Jamie Bell, Jean Heywood, Jamie Draven. Rated PG-13.
Body Rock (1984): Chilly (Lorenzo Lamas) has a talent for break-dancing. When his moves catch notice of an industry professional, Chilly finds his dreams of fame and riches coming true, for better or for worse. Rated PG-13.
Breakin’ (1984): A struggling young jazz dancer (Lucinda Dickey) meets up with two break-dancers and they grow to be the sensation of the street crowds. Rated PG.
Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogoloo (1984): A developer tries to tear down a neighborhood recreation center to build on. The local kids and break-dancers try to stop it. Rated PG.
Bring it On (2000): Starring Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku and Gabrielle Union. A champion high school cheerleading/dance squad discovers its prior captain stole all their top routines from an inner-city school and must scramble to battle at this year's championships. Rated PG-13.
Burn the Floor (1999): An explosive voyage through dance featuring several of the world's champion ballroom and Latin dancers. Rated PG-13.
Cabaret (1972): Directed by Bob Fosse, starring Liza Minelli. An American cabaret dancer, working at the downtown "Kit-Kat club" where anything goes on the stage, comes into contact with several characters that take her on a journey. Rated PG.
Center Stage (2000): Starring Amanda Schull, Ethan Stiefel, Sasha Radetsky and Zoe Saldana and featuring Julie Kent. A story of a young ballet dancer who follows her dreams and gets into the American Ballet Academy of New York (that feeds into New York’s finest ballet company). Her trials and hardships in dance and in her love life take her on a journey… A must see for ballet lovers. Rated PG-13.
Damn Yankees! (1958): Starring Gwen Verdon, a Washington Senators fan who makes a pact with the Devil to help his baseball squad win the league pennant. Rated PG.
Dance Academy (1988): Choreographed by Dennon and Sayhber Rawles. Vince stumbles into a dance school, when he becomes entranced and joins. The school's manager, is about to throw him out for shenanigans when Moon, the school's unruly new jazz instructor, vouches for him. Rated PG.
Dance With Me (1998): Vanessa Williams, Chayanne, and Kris Kristofferson star. A Cuban boy comes to America to meet his dancer father, who has no idea he exists. Rated PG.
Dancemaker (1999): A documentary about dancing students that unravel the hardships of dance as a profession. Rated PG.
Dancers (1987): Allesandra Ferri and Mikhail Baryshnikov star in this drama about the life of dancers as they embark on a romance. Rated PG.
Danzòn (1991): Julia (Maria Rojo) is a telephone operator who divides her time between her career, her daughter and the Danzòn: a Cuban dance that is very popular in Mexico and Central America. Rated PG-13.
Dirty Dancing (1987): A classic starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray. Spending the summer in camp with her family, Frances ('Baby') falls head over heels for the dancing instructor. A must see for all dance lovers. Rated PG-13.
Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004): Part two to the classic “Dirty Dancing.” An American girl and her parents arrive in Cuba right before the Revolution breaks out. She meets a local boy who instantly notices her dancing abilities and romances her. But as Castro's forces are forcing Americans to leave the country, will she stay or will she go? Rated PG-13.
Do You Wanna Dance? (1999): A comedy about a poor boy who aims to win over a well-to-do girl despite her parents' opposition (in the background of modern and traditional Greek dancing). Rated PG-13.
Fame (1980): At the New York City High School for the Performing Arts, students get expert training that often leads to success as dancers, singers, etc. This movie follows four students from the moment they audition to get into the school, through the time they graduate. Rated R.
Fast Forward (1985): A musical about eight dancers from Ohio, who come to New York, to compete in a major talent competition... Rated PG.
Flamenco (1975): A close-up look at the passionate and hard working life of Flamenco Dancers. Rated PG-13.
Flashdance (1983): A struggling Pittsburgh woman with two occupations as a welder and an exotic dancer wants to get into ballet school. Rated R.
Footloose (1984): Starring Kevin Bacon, Ariel Moore and featuring Sarah Jessica Parker. A city boy comes to a small religious town where rock music and dancing have been forbidden and banned. Rated R.
Hairspray (2007): Starring John Travolta, Amanda Bynes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Britney Snow and newcomer Nikki Blonsky as Tracy Turnblad. Pleasantly plump teenager Tracy Turnblad teaches 1962 Baltimore a thing or two about integration after landing a spot on a local TV dance show. Rated PG.
Honey (2003): Starring Jessica Alba. Honey (Alba) is a sexy, tough music video choreographer who’s life is shaken up after her mentor gives her an ultimatum: sleep with him or be blacklisted in the dance industry. Rated PG-13.
How She Move (2007): Following her sister's passing away from drugs, a high school student is forced to depart her private school to go back to her old, crime-filled neighborhood where she reawakens an dubious passion for step dancing. Rated PG-13.
Lambada (1990): Kevin Laird is a Beverly Hills teacher by day and a mystery man by night who uses Lambada dance moves to first earn the school kid's respect, in order to teach them academics. But when a jealous student exposes Kevin's dual life, his two worlds crash, threatening his employment and reputation. Rated PG-13.
Mad Hot Ballroom (2005): A documentary about the students of several New York City elementary schools learn ballroom dancing and compete in a city wide dance competition. Rated PG.
Planet B-Boy (2008): A documentary look at the history of break-dancing’s influencing urban cultures around the world. Unrated.
Rize (2005): A documentary. Rize chronicles one of the newest forms of original dance that arises out of South Central Los Angeles with roots in clowning and street moves. Rated PG-13.
Roll Bounce (2005): Starring Bow Wow and Nick Cannon: a film with the backdrop of the 1970s roller-skating rival kids at the local rink. Rated PG-13.
Roseland (1977): "Roseland" is made up of three intertwining stories, all set in the renowned New York dance palace with one thing in common: finding the right dance partner.
Salsa (1988): A movie that is all about Salsa, passion and performing. Rated PG.
Saturday Night Fever (1977): Starring John Travolta. A young Brooklyn man feels his only opportunity to get somewhere is as king of the disco dance floor. Rated R.
Save the Last Dance (2001): Starring Julie Stiles and Derek Reynolds. A white Mid-western girl moves to Chicago, where her new boyfriend is a black teen from the South Side with a rough, semi-criminal past. She comes from a ballet background and dreams of getting into Julliard and he comes from a hip hop street style background, when their world’s collide so does their dancing. Rated PG-13.
Shall We Dance? (2004): Starring Richard Gere, Jennifer Lopez and Susan Sarandon. A workaholic takes an unexpected turn when he follows a beautiful woman to a Chicago dance studio and becomes a ballroom dancer. Rated PG-13.
Shall We Dance? (1997): This is the original version of the Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez movie in Japanese with English sub text.
Showgirls (1995): A young girl pushes her way to the top of Vegas as a Vegas Showgirl despite the hardships thrown in her path. Rated R.
Stayin’ Alive (1983): A documentary: "Stayin' Alive" launched disco fever which endured through the last quarter of the 20th century and into the new millennium.
Step Up (2006): A troubled teen commits a crime and is sentenced to community service in a dance school where he falls in love with dance and a girl. Rated PG-13.
Step Up 2: The Streets (2008): Romantic sparks occur between two dance students from different backgrounds at the Maryland School of the Arts. Rated PG-13.
Stepping Out (1991): Featuring Liza Minnelli, an incredibly entertaining “feel-good” dance film for the whole family to enjoy. Rated PG.
Stomp the Yard (2007): Starring Columbus Short and Meagan Good, featuring Ne-Yo. A troubled street dancer from Los Angeles is able to avoid juvenile hall by enrolling in college. But his efforts are sidelined when he is courted by the top two fraternities, both of which want and need his street-style dance moves to win the national step show competition. Rated PG-13.
Strictly Ballroom (1992): A comedy about competitive ballroom dancing between an unorthodox male ballroom dancer and a mousy girl that musters up enough courage to join him in his quest to blaze a trail into ballroom dancing despite the cynicism surrounding them.
Swing (2003): The story of a generational clash between a father and son about the conventional work life and following a dream. The music is hot, the dancing exciting, and the story lovely. Rated PG-13.
Swing Kids (1993): The story of a group of youth in Nazi Germany who listen and dance to forbidden swing regardless of the consequences. Rated PG-13.
Take the Lead (2006): Starring Antonio Banderas. The story of a dance teacher who believes in the talent of a group of problem kids he is required to teach. Rated PG-13.
Tango (1998): Mario is a tango dancer in his forties, whose wife has left him. He becomes inspired to make a film about tango. Rated PG-13.
Tap (1989): Starring the late Gregory Hines. Just released from prison, Max Washington must decide which of his earlier professions to return to: burglary or tap dancing. Rated PG-13.
That’s Dancing! (1985): The history of dance documented on film. Rated G.
The Company (2003): Starring Neve Cambell. A drama centered around ballet dancers, with a focus on one dancer (Campbell) who's poised to become a principal dancer. Rated PG-13.
The Forbidden Dance (1990): LAMBADA...If it got any hotter, it wouldn't be dancing! PG-13.
The In Crowd (1988): A young man of the rock and roll generation in his senior year of high school successfully gets on a popular teen dance television show and becomes a star. As he lives his new life, he finds adoring fans, jealous rivals, bitter friends left behind, and the girl of his dreams...his dance partner. Rated PG.
The Red Shoes (1948): A musical ballet of a girl who can’t stop dancing and dances until she goes mad and drops! Rated G.
The Tango Lesson (1997): A young girl meets a tango dancer on a trip to Paris, she meets him again in Buenos Aires some years later as they develop in love and in dance. Rated PG.
The Turning Point (1977): Possibly one of the most famous ballet movies of our time starring Shirley MacLaine and Anne Bancroft. When her daughter joins a ballet company, a former dancer is forced to confront her long-ago decision to give up the stage to have a family. Enjoy some great ballet scenes from dancer Leslie Brown. Rated PG.
White Nights (1985): Starring Mikhail Baryshnikov. An expatriate Russian dancer is on a plane forced to land on Soviet territory. He is faced with an opportunity to defect from Russia to the USA with the help of a US citizen he comes in contact with. He can become a dancer for the Bolshoi again back in Russia, but he chooses to escape to dance in America. Rated PG-13.
You Got Served (2004): In order to achieve their dream of opening a recording studio, two friends must first win their city's dance contest: a street style competition that pits them against a group of tough street dancers. Rated PG-13.
Best Moments on Dancing With The Stars
Susan Young of Film.com has compiled a list of the top 10 best moments on Dancing With The Stars, listed on BuddyTV.com, including:
- Marie Osmond's fainting spell
- Drew Lachey and Cheryle Burke's dance to "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy"
- Various wardrobe malfunctions
- Billy Ray Cyrus' and Master P's painful attempts at dancing
- Sara Evans withdrawal due to her messy divorce
- Cristian de la Fuente's arm injury
- Jennie Garth's spill
Kids are "Little Stars" when ballroom dancing
Last year, when Dancing With The Stars began to feature children on the dance floor, younger generations saw that ballroom dancing isn't just for their grandparents anymore. Elena Ivanchenko, owner of the Fred Astaire studio in Charleston, South Carolina has noticed a recent increased attendance of children and teenagers in her classes. According to a recent news article in a Charleston newspaper, "her younger students feel like 'little stars' when they perform..." Click here to read more.
Bruce Hasson Is Coming Back to DC Studio
Bruce Hasson will be teaching private lessons at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Washington, D.C. on September 23-24. There will be a Smooth Group Class on September 23 at 8:00 p.m. and a Latin Group Class on September 24 at 8:00 p.m. Bruce is a former Hustle Champion, American Smooth and Rhythm Finalist, International Standard and Theatre Arts Finalist, and winner of several Fred Astaire Top Teacher Awards.
Smile Forever Fundraiser in New Jersey
By Jerry Roland
Fred Astaire Dance professionals and their students will perform at a fundraiser for the Smile Forever Foundation on Oct 29, 2008 at The Venetian in Garfield, NJ. The Smile Forever Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit charity that provides financial assistance to families experiencing disabling illnesses, especially cancer and autism, by contributing to living expenses. Since the Foundation is staffed by volunteers, 100% of the net proceeds are dispersed directly to those in need.
The Foundation was established by Pat Gonnelli as a tribute to his wife Barbara, who battled cancer for many years. She was a woman whose demeanor always made people smile, hence the name, Smile Forever, (not to be confused with Operation Smile).
The event will start at 6:30 and end at 11:00. The show will include Pro/Am show case dancing and performances by seven world famous professionals, three of which have performed on the TV show "Dancing With the Stars." From 10-11:00, there will be open dancing for the attendees. In addition, there will be nostalgic entertainment by two impersonators, i.e. Elvis and Frank Sinatra. As with most fundraisers, there will be live auction items to buy, silent action items, and a 50/50 raffle. The tickets range from $125.00 to $175.00, depending how close you are to the dance floor. Tickets can be obtained by calling or emailing the Fred Astaire Dance Studio at 201-664-0800 or rkucieba@fredastaire.com respectively. Or, calling or emailing Jerry Roland at 201-670-9325 or JRR400@aol.com respectively.
Fred Astaire Dance professionals and their students will perform at a fundraiser for the Smile Forever Foundation on Oct 29, 2008 at The Venetian in Garfield, NJ. The Smile Forever Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit charity that provides financial assistance to families experiencing disabling illnesses, especially cancer and autism, by contributing to living expenses. Since the Foundation is staffed by volunteers, 100% of the net proceeds are dispersed directly to those in need.
The Foundation was established by Pat Gonnelli as a tribute to his wife Barbara, who battled cancer for many years. She was a woman whose demeanor always made people smile, hence the name, Smile Forever, (not to be confused with Operation Smile).
The event will start at 6:30 and end at 11:00. The show will include Pro/Am show case dancing and performances by seven world famous professionals, three of which have performed on the TV show "Dancing With the Stars." From 10-11:00, there will be open dancing for the attendees. In addition, there will be nostalgic entertainment by two impersonators, i.e. Elvis and Frank Sinatra. As with most fundraisers, there will be live auction items to buy, silent action items, and a 50/50 raffle. The tickets range from $125.00 to $175.00, depending how close you are to the dance floor. Tickets can be obtained by calling or emailing the Fred Astaire Dance Studio at 201-664-0800 or rkucieba@fredastaire.com respectively. Or, calling or emailing Jerry Roland at 201-670-9325 or JRR400@aol.com respectively.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Next Fred Astaire National Competition
The 2008 National Dance Championships (NDC) will be held at the elegant Hilton Walt Disney World Resort on October 22 - 26, 2008.Because this is an official hotel of WALT DISNEY WORLD®, guests can take advantage of many special privileges, including "Extra Magic Hours." This benefit provides Hilton guests with special access to select WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort theme parks an hour early, or up to three hours in the evening, to enjoy easy access to some of the most popular attractions.
Enjoy the Hilton's two heated swimming pools, or work out at the fully-equipped health club. Five WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort championship golf courses, home to the Funai Classic, are also nearby.
If you haven't talked to your instructor yet, please do so quickly. You can represent the studio, compete with some of the best dancers in the country, and have a great time at Disney!
Click here for more information on this exciting competition.
Did You Know?
"Puttin' on the Ritz," the song performed by Fred Astaire in the 1946 movie Blue Skies, was in part inspired by a 1920s fad involving Harlem residents dressing up and strolling up and down the borough's Lenox Avenue. "Puttin' on the Ritz" is slang for dressing well. The song was first written in 1929 by prolific Broadway songwriter Irving Berlin.
Guest Stars on New Dancing With The Stars!
The excitement keeps building for Season 7 of Dancing With The Stars! The new season will be kicked off on September 22, 2008 and aired on ABC at 8:00 to 10:00 P.M. ET. The result show of the first episode airing on September 24 will have the Jonas Brothers and Jesse McCartney as guest performers.
Here is the rundown on the celebrities cast this season:
LANCE BASS - Lance Bass has sold over 50 million records as a member of the phenomenally successful pop group 'NSYNC. He also executive produced and starred in a number of film and television projects. In 2002, he successfully trained to be a cosmonaut at Russia's Star City and was certified by both the Russian Space Program and NASA for a mission aboard a Soyuz capsule. Lance is paired with the 2006 U.S. Youth Latin Champ, 2007 World Swing Dance Champ, and "So You Think You Can Dance" finalist Lacey Schwimmer.
TONI BRAXTON - The winner of six Grammy Awards, Toni Braxton is a Billboard chart-topping singer and actress, selling over forty million records worldwide. Her U.S. number-one hit "Un-Break My Heart" is the second biggest single by a female artist in history. Toni teams up with Season One champion, Alec Mazo.
BROOKE BURKE - A network host, actress, entrepreneur and celebrity mom, Brooke Burke has graced numerous magazine covers, has her own top-selling swimsuit calendars, and is regularly ranked in men's magazines as one of the sexiest women in the world. Brooke teams with Derek Hough, a former world champion in Latin-American Dance.
ROCCO DISPIRITO - The James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef and author Rocco DiSpirito is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and opened the 3-star Union Pacific in New York City in 1997. In 2003 he launched Rocco's for the reality series, "The Restaurant." He partners with Karina Smirnoff who is a five-time U.S. National Champion, World Trophy Champion, and Asian Open Champion. Smirnoff is "the first woman to ever make the British Professional Final with three different partners."
MAURICE GREENE - The winner of two gold medals in the 100m sprint and the 4x100m relay at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics, track star Maurice Greene was dubbed the "World's Fastest Man" during his career. He is the current Indoor World Record holder in the 60m at 6.39 seconds. He teams up with two-time champion, Cheryl Burke.
KIM KARDASHIAN - Actress, model and reality television star, Kim Kardashian shot to stardom after the first airing of her hit E! reality series, "Keeping up with the Kardashians." Kardashian recently completed her first feature film, "Disaster Movie," and will also be seen on The N's series Beyond the Break. She teams up with defending champ, Mark Ballas, who returns for his third season.
CLORIS LEACHMAN - Actress Cloris Leachman's storied career has been recognized with nine Emmys®, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award®. Leachman has starred in a wide range of theater, television and motion picture projects, creating such indelible characters as Phyllis in the TV series "Phyllis" and "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," Frau Blucher in "Young Frankenstein," Nurse Diesel in "High Anxiety," and Ruth Popper in "The Last Picture Show" (for which she won an Oscar® and a BAFTA). Cloris teams with World Latin Champion and Mark's father, Corky Ballas.
CODY LINLEY - Cody Linley will be the youngest contestant ever to compete on "Dancing with the Stars." He is best known for his role as Jake Ryan on the wildly popular Disney Channel series "Hannah Montana," a role in which he was nominated for a Young Artist Award. Cody's film credits include "My Dog Skip," "HOOT," "Miss Congeniality," and "Cheaper By the Dozen." He teams with two-time Dancing with the Stars champ, Julianne Hough.
SUSAN LUCCI - As the most famous face in daytime television history, Lucci has held audiences spellbound for years as the sexy, sassy, beautiful woman you love to hate, Erica Kane on "All My Children." In May 1999, all of America stood and cheered when Susan Lucci won the Emmy® Award for Best Actress. She teams with Fred Astaire Champion dancer Tony Dovolani.
MISTY MAY-TREANOR - Beach Volleyball champion Misty May-Treanor and partner Kerri Walsh captured their second Olympic gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics and became the first team ever to repeat as back-to-back champs. The victory also marked their 108th straight match win. Misty was also named Most Valuable Player in 2005 and 2006, Best Offensive Player in 2004, 2005 and 2006, and Best Defensive Player in 2006. She now joins a new teammate, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, a Ukrainian Latin Ballroom Dance Champion, choreographer, and instructor.
TED MCGINLEY - Actor Ted McGinley's extensive television credits include "Married with Children," "Hope & Faith," "Happy Days," recurring roles on the critically-acclaimed series "The West Wing," "Sports Night," "Charlie Lawrence," "Dynasty," and "The Love Boat." He has also starred in major films, such as "Pearl Harbor, Daybreak," "Dick," "Major League: Back to the Minors," "Wayne's World 2," and the cult hit "Revenge of the Nerds." Newcomer Inna Brayer will be paired with Ted. Inna is the current US Amateur 10 Dance Champion.
JEFFREY ROSS - Comedian Jeffrey Ross a.k.a. the "Roastmaster General," has delivered numerous show stopping performances at celebrity roasts honoring the likes of William Shatner, Hugh Hefner, Donald Trump, Pamela Anderson, Bob Saget and Emmitt Smith, inspiring New York Magazine to crown him The Meanest Man in Comedy. He has also appeared in such films as the Farrelley Brothers' "Stuck on You," and the critical sensation, "The Aristocrats." He teams with Edyta Sliwinska, who is the only pro to compete in all seven seasons of Dancing with the Stars.
WARREN SAPP - Recently retired defensive tackle and Superbowl Champion Warren Sapp played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Oakland Raiders during his 13 year career. His 96.5 career sacks are the second-highest career total sacks for a defensive tackle in the NFL. Warren was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1999, played in seven consecutive Pro Bowls and won Super Bowl XXXVII with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003. He is teamed with Kym Johnson, an Australian former professional ballroom dancer, model, and television celebrity.
Jeweler creates Circle of Dance piece to fight AIDS
Elliott Herzlich, of Elliott's Jewelers in Whitehouse, Texas, has recently designed a necklace that will appeal to a specific audience: ballroom dancers. Herzlich donated this necklace to be auctioned during the third annual "Dancing with the Tyler Stars" event on September 20. It is a 14kt yellow gold necklace set with baguette diamonds surrounding gold waltzing dancers, valued over $4000.
According to an article published in the Tri County Leader, "Herzlich said he and his wife got involved in ballroom dancing just looking for a hobby they could do together.
"We aren't very good at it," he said. "But we enjoy the time we spend together and meeting new people. We call it our date night.""
"We aren't very good at it," he said. "But we enjoy the time we spend together and meeting new people. We call it our date night.""
Click here to read more.
Sure, Dancing Is Fun...But Is It A Good Workout Too?
Most people think dancing is something you do at weddings or in clubs with friends. You might work up a sweat and have a lot of fun but is it really a workout? The answer is a resounding...yes! Just ask any dancer and they will agree! In this article by Sheri Reid, Associate Executive Director of the Mid-Shore Family YMCA, the various physical benefits of dancing (ballroom, line, and zumba) are explained in detail.
Night of the Dancing Stars
They're putting on their dancing shoes in Greensboro, North Carolina! The third annual "Night of the Dancing Stars," a fundraiser for a Winston-Salem Relay for Life team, will be held on September 10th. Click here to read more.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Michael Jackson & Fred Astaire
Legendary singer and dancer Michael Jackson, in a recent interview with Good Morning America, recently stated that he is "'inspired by many great artists,' noting he wished he could have worked with [Chris] Brown or Fred Astaire."
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Show Dance!
Eric Luna and Georgia Ambarian won the Professional Theatre Arts Championships at the Florida State Championships. Here is a clip of one of their amazing routines:
Misty May-Treanor trades beach for ballroom
Here's the latest news from the Orange County Register on one of the new Dancing With The Stars contestants:
"Olympic beach volleyball champion Misty May-Treanor, fresh off her second straight Olympic gold medal, is setting her sights on a new trophy this fall: the mirrored disco ball that goes to the winner of ABC's "Dancing With the Stars."
May-Treanor, who spent her teen years in Costa Mesa and graduated from Newport Harbor High School, is one of 13 new stars revealed as part of the cast for seventh season of the show that kicks off Monday, Sept. 22.
While she won her gold medals in Beijing and Athens with volleyball partner Kerri Walsh, for "Dancing" she'll team up with professional dancer Maksim Chmerkovskiy, who returns to the show for his fifth season."
Click here to read more.
Bachelorette Jen Schefft Dances At Fred Astaire Studio
Jen Schefft, the Bachelorette star, a contestant in Chicago's charity event "Dance For Babies" held this July, has a newfound respect for ballroom dancing. According to a local article published in the Arlington Heights Post by Stephanie Fosnight: "Six weeks of rehearsals later, Schefft is definitely coming down with stage fright. 'I thought it'd be easy,' she said. 'It's not.'" Click here to read more.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Hollywood Singing and Dancing
A two-disc movie, "Hollywood Singing and Dancing: A Musical History," will be released in October. The 220-minute program, produced by Great Musical Treasures, explores the progression of song and dance in film, from Busby Berkeley’s Depression-era black-and-white films to recent hits such as Dreamgirls and Chicago. Academy Award-winning performer Shirley Jones hosts the program, which features interviews with Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Liza Minnelli, Shirley MacLaine, Mickey Rooney, Rita Moreno, Debbie Reynolds, Leslie Caron, Jane Russell, Tab Hunter, Joel Grey and directors Bill Condon (Dreamgirls) and Rob Marshall (Chicago). Click here to read more.
New Cast of Dancing With The Stars Revealed
Here's the line up for this season's Dancing With The Stars:
Lance Bass, Singer
Rocco DiSpirito, Chef
Misty May-Treanor, Olympic beach volleyball player
Maurice Greene, Olympic sprinter
Toni Braxton, Grammy-winning singer
Kim Kardashian, Reality TV star
Cody Linley, Hannah Montana co-star
Cloris Leachman, Oscar-winning actress
Ted McGinley, Actor
Brooke Burke, Actress
Jeffrey Ross, Stand-up comedian
Warren Sapp, Super Bowl champion
Susan Lucci, Soap Star
Rocco DiSpirito, Chef
Misty May-Treanor, Olympic beach volleyball player
Maurice Greene, Olympic sprinter
Toni Braxton, Grammy-winning singer
Kim Kardashian, Reality TV star
Cody Linley, Hannah Montana co-star
Cloris Leachman, Oscar-winning actress
Ted McGinley, Actor
Brooke Burke, Actress
Jeffrey Ross, Stand-up comedian
Warren Sapp, Super Bowl champion
Susan Lucci, Soap Star
Thursday, August 21, 2008
New England Region Holds Record Breaking Competition
By Karen Green, Assistant Director of the New England Region
One small region. Sixteen studios. Three sold out hotels. More than 200 competitors. Almost 6,000 entries. Sounds like a recipe for disaster. Instead it went off with hardly a hitch.
On August 6-9, the New England Region held its 43rd Colonial Classic at the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa in Groton, CT and, what is usually our smallest competition throughout the year, unexpectedly became our biggest ever. Up until this point, our “biggest ever” was November of 2007 with 5,300 entries. Many may remember the story of that competition – the hotel lost power for 3½ hours and organizers ran the competition from a generator they purchased at Home Depot!
“August is typically small for us with about 3,500 to 4,000 entries probably due to summer vacation schedules,” said Kim Haidinger, the New England Area Director. She also explained that our August comp didn’t really have a “home” until this summer. We had tried out various locations before deciding to use the Mystic Marriott, which is already host to our November competitions. “People obviously love Mystic,” Kim said. “As soon as our initial numbers came in, we realized we were over our room block and called the hotel right away.” Much to our dismay, the Marriott was sold out for our comp weekend and was unable to increase our room block. “We were referred to a Hilton about four miles away,” said Kim, “but they only had about 15 rooms they could give us.” We quickly sold out those rooms as well and had to contract for five additional rooms at a third hotel!
But, despite this last minute juggling, the competition weekend went off as planned. A highlight of the weekend included a fantastic judging panel made up of Christine Harvey-Banks, Stanley and Jennifer McCalla, Dan Rutherford, Nicole Carroll and Anastasia Abrashin. “They were so interactive and animated,” said Kim. “The students loved that kind of attention and seeing the judges move around the floor to get a good look at all the couples.” Kim also reported that having Lyall Bradshaw as the invigilator always helps maintain a high level of integrity at competitions.
The region arranged for the Paul Mitchell School of Hair Design to send stylists at no charge to do competitors’ hair and makeup. The students appreciated this free service and the energy and excitement in the foyer was contagious as dramatic makeup was applied and intricate up-dos were created.
One of the biggest hits of the weekend was the new Midnight Buffet that was offered at the conclusion of the sessions on Thursday and Friday night. We found that so many competitors and instructors wouldn’t eat dinner before dancing the evening sessions or they had eaten and they were starving after dancing all night. And, most of the time, by the time we finish, room service and the restaurants are closed. So, we arranged for what they dubbed the “comfort food buffet” to be available with pizza, a baked potato bar, chicken fingers, soup, and cookies. The participants were deliriously happy about the buffet. They were so appreciative to have something to eat at that time and they loved the choices.
The record-breaking competition concluded on Saturday night with the Grand Ball and Banquet. “I think the hotel had about an hour and a half to prepare the ballroom for the banquet,” said Kim. When everyone returned dressed to the nines, the ballroom had been transformed and the competitors, instructors, and other guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of social dancing and the presentation of awards for Top Studio, Super School, School Spirit and the Top Instructors and Top Students. The climax of the ball was the professional show with honor dances by the professional division winners and a stunning performance by champions Victor Fung and Anna Mikhed. “We were so thrilled to bring such a world-caliber couple to our region to perform,” said Kim.
So, what’s in store for the New England Region at our upcoming November competition? Traditionally our largest, how are we preparing to top 6,000 entries?
We’ve increased our room block at the hotel so we hopefully won’t have any rooming issues but, the competition is blocked in on either side by large conventions at the hotel so starting earlier or going into Sunday is not possible. “We’ve adjusted our schedule and have had to eliminate and combine some things,” explained Kim. “You never know what challenges and issues will come up with events like these,” she continued. “We just take each competition as it comes and every obstacle becomes a challenge to make every event better than the last.” And, judging by how our competitions are growing, this philosophy is working.
One small region. Sixteen studios. Three sold out hotels. More than 200 competitors. Almost 6,000 entries. Sounds like a recipe for disaster. Instead it went off with hardly a hitch.
On August 6-9, the New England Region held its 43rd Colonial Classic at the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa in Groton, CT and, what is usually our smallest competition throughout the year, unexpectedly became our biggest ever. Up until this point, our “biggest ever” was November of 2007 with 5,300 entries. Many may remember the story of that competition – the hotel lost power for 3½ hours and organizers ran the competition from a generator they purchased at Home Depot!
“August is typically small for us with about 3,500 to 4,000 entries probably due to summer vacation schedules,” said Kim Haidinger, the New England Area Director. She also explained that our August comp didn’t really have a “home” until this summer. We had tried out various locations before deciding to use the Mystic Marriott, which is already host to our November competitions. “People obviously love Mystic,” Kim said. “As soon as our initial numbers came in, we realized we were over our room block and called the hotel right away.” Much to our dismay, the Marriott was sold out for our comp weekend and was unable to increase our room block. “We were referred to a Hilton about four miles away,” said Kim, “but they only had about 15 rooms they could give us.” We quickly sold out those rooms as well and had to contract for five additional rooms at a third hotel!
But, despite this last minute juggling, the competition weekend went off as planned. A highlight of the weekend included a fantastic judging panel made up of Christine Harvey-Banks, Stanley and Jennifer McCalla, Dan Rutherford, Nicole Carroll and Anastasia Abrashin. “They were so interactive and animated,” said Kim. “The students loved that kind of attention and seeing the judges move around the floor to get a good look at all the couples.” Kim also reported that having Lyall Bradshaw as the invigilator always helps maintain a high level of integrity at competitions.
The region arranged for the Paul Mitchell School of Hair Design to send stylists at no charge to do competitors’ hair and makeup. The students appreciated this free service and the energy and excitement in the foyer was contagious as dramatic makeup was applied and intricate up-dos were created.
One of the biggest hits of the weekend was the new Midnight Buffet that was offered at the conclusion of the sessions on Thursday and Friday night. We found that so many competitors and instructors wouldn’t eat dinner before dancing the evening sessions or they had eaten and they were starving after dancing all night. And, most of the time, by the time we finish, room service and the restaurants are closed. So, we arranged for what they dubbed the “comfort food buffet” to be available with pizza, a baked potato bar, chicken fingers, soup, and cookies. The participants were deliriously happy about the buffet. They were so appreciative to have something to eat at that time and they loved the choices.
The record-breaking competition concluded on Saturday night with the Grand Ball and Banquet. “I think the hotel had about an hour and a half to prepare the ballroom for the banquet,” said Kim. When everyone returned dressed to the nines, the ballroom had been transformed and the competitors, instructors, and other guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of social dancing and the presentation of awards for Top Studio, Super School, School Spirit and the Top Instructors and Top Students. The climax of the ball was the professional show with honor dances by the professional division winners and a stunning performance by champions Victor Fung and Anna Mikhed. “We were so thrilled to bring such a world-caliber couple to our region to perform,” said Kim.
So, what’s in store for the New England Region at our upcoming November competition? Traditionally our largest, how are we preparing to top 6,000 entries?
We’ve increased our room block at the hotel so we hopefully won’t have any rooming issues but, the competition is blocked in on either side by large conventions at the hotel so starting earlier or going into Sunday is not possible. “We’ve adjusted our schedule and have had to eliminate and combine some things,” explained Kim. “You never know what challenges and issues will come up with events like these,” she continued. “We just take each competition as it comes and every obstacle becomes a challenge to make every event better than the last.” And, judging by how our competitions are growing, this philosophy is working.
In the photo below, Robin Jedlicka (left), owner of the West Springfield, Massachusetts studio and Sergh Aliev, instructor at the Hamden, Connecticut studio and Elmar Schmidt from the Norwalk, Connecticut studio compete with their students:
Dance Lessons For Children
According to a recent article in The Windsor Star published on www.canada.com, there are many benefits to signing up children for ballroom dance lessons. Through dance, children can develop "poise, agility, strength, and coordination."
The article goes on to state:
"And perhaps best of all, dance provides an avenue for children to unfold and expand their creativity.
"Dance is a creative endeavour," says Cindy Pattison-Rivard, artistic director at Nancy Pattison's Dance World. "Even though it's often labeled an art, it's also very much a sport - it's a very intense, yet very fun, form of exercise, offered in a safe, healthy environment."
Pattison explains that dance teaches children proper posture and head and body alignment, all while encouraging a healthy dose of self-esteem and grace. "Dance lessons teach kids respect... it also teaches them discipline, the confidence to set goals."
Dancing, for kids of all ages (and adults too), has been proven to reduce stress, manage weight and increase energy levels, as well as muscle tone. It's also the perfect partner to any sport.
"Dance and sports go hand in hand," says Pattison. "Gymnasts, figure skaters, football players - they all take dance, to increase agility and flexibility. Watching the Olympics this year, it's obvious divers have had to train in some form of dance too."
While dancing can certainly be a very individual sport, Pattison feels that dancers share a sense of community and a genuine love for the arts. So for children who may be shy or withdrawn, dance allows them to find confidence, on and off the dance floor.
"It can be recreational and it can be competitive. And as with any sort of routine activity, it teaches them life lessons - so even if they never grow up to be a competitor on So You Think You Can Dance, they'll have fun and they'll be challenged.""
Click here to read the full text of this article by Anna Cabrera Cristofaro.
The article goes on to state:
"And perhaps best of all, dance provides an avenue for children to unfold and expand their creativity.
"Dance is a creative endeavour," says Cindy Pattison-Rivard, artistic director at Nancy Pattison's Dance World. "Even though it's often labeled an art, it's also very much a sport - it's a very intense, yet very fun, form of exercise, offered in a safe, healthy environment."
Pattison explains that dance teaches children proper posture and head and body alignment, all while encouraging a healthy dose of self-esteem and grace. "Dance lessons teach kids respect... it also teaches them discipline, the confidence to set goals."
Dancing, for kids of all ages (and adults too), has been proven to reduce stress, manage weight and increase energy levels, as well as muscle tone. It's also the perfect partner to any sport.
"Dance and sports go hand in hand," says Pattison. "Gymnasts, figure skaters, football players - they all take dance, to increase agility and flexibility. Watching the Olympics this year, it's obvious divers have had to train in some form of dance too."
While dancing can certainly be a very individual sport, Pattison feels that dancers share a sense of community and a genuine love for the arts. So for children who may be shy or withdrawn, dance allows them to find confidence, on and off the dance floor.
"It can be recreational and it can be competitive. And as with any sort of routine activity, it teaches them life lessons - so even if they never grow up to be a competitor on So You Think You Can Dance, they'll have fun and they'll be challenged.""
Click here to read the full text of this article by Anna Cabrera Cristofaro.
Get Ready For USDC
The most prestigious competition in the United States, the United States Dance Championships, will be held on September 2-6 in Orlando, Florida at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando where amateur and professional competitors from over 30 countries will dance for four major World Championships and a further seven US titles.
Several members of the Fred Astaire National Dance Board will be judging the event. Fred Astaire winners in last year’s competition included Ilya Ifraimov and Nadia Goulina (4th place in Professional Latin), Jonah Schneider and Lindsey Rutherford (3rd place in Professional Rising Star Rhythm), Greg Fidurski and Gabriela Jileva (2nd place in Professional Rising Star Standard), Victor Luna and Dawn Westberry (3rd place in Professional Theatrical Dance – Bolero), Eric Luna and Georgia Ambarian (1st place in Professional Cabaret), Jesse Benedetti and Kimalee Piedad (2nd place in Professional Cabaret), and Mikhail Zharinov and Galina Detkina (4th place in Professional Cabaret).
This year’s competition will also include a special meeting of American professional dancers with the WDC (World Dance Council). All American professionals affiliated with the WDC will meet during a short forum with the President of the WDC, Mr. Donnie Burns, during the WDC Presidium. This is a great opportunity for the WDC to communicate directly with professional dancers. The exact time and location will be clearly posted at the event.
Top professionals will be competing at this exciting event. Be there to cheer them on!
Jerry Rice Talks About Dancing With The Stars
Access Hollywood reports:
”Dancing With The Stars” is famous for scoring big athletes, but this time the ABC show may be getting more than it bargained for.
“They’re really going after a big one this time,” ”DWTS” Season 2 finalist Jerry Rice told Access Hollywood‘s Billy Bush in an interview for “The Billy Bush Show.” “I think it’s Warren Sapp.”
The retired NFL defensive back weighed in at 285 pounds a year ago, according to USA Today, but Rice says Sapp will slim down for the dance floor.
”You’re probably going to see him trim down, lose some weight,” he said. “I know Warren, Warren is very competitive so he’s going to give it 100%.”
Rice told Billy that he’s still using the moves he learned on “DWTS,” showing them off at a recent charity event in Napa.
”We went through some moves, we did some ballroom stuff, we did some Latin stuff,” he said.
Click here to view a full copy of the article.
”Dancing With The Stars” is famous for scoring big athletes, but this time the ABC show may be getting more than it bargained for.
“They’re really going after a big one this time,” ”DWTS” Season 2 finalist Jerry Rice told Access Hollywood‘s Billy Bush in an interview for “The Billy Bush Show.” “I think it’s Warren Sapp.”
The retired NFL defensive back weighed in at 285 pounds a year ago, according to USA Today, but Rice says Sapp will slim down for the dance floor.
”You’re probably going to see him trim down, lose some weight,” he said. “I know Warren, Warren is very competitive so he’s going to give it 100%.”
Rice told Billy that he’s still using the moves he learned on “DWTS,” showing them off at a recent charity event in Napa.
”We went through some moves, we did some ballroom stuff, we did some Latin stuff,” he said.
Click here to view a full copy of the article.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Did You Know?
George Balanchine, one of the 20th century's foremost choreographers, a pioneer of ballet in the United States, and co-founder of the New York City Ballet, once said this about Mr. Fred Astaire:
"I will tell you something that maybe will make you laugh. It should not. I am serious. The male dancer I like to watch, really the only one I like to watch, is an American -- Fred Astaire. He is the most interesting, the most inventive, the most elegant dancer of our times. I don't mean classical, of course, but dancing; he's so good at it that he ought to have a statue. I mean that absolutely. ... He is like Bach, who in his time had a great concentration of ability, essence, knowledge, a spread of music. Astaire has that same concentration of genius; there is so much of the dance in him that it has been distilled."
"I will tell you something that maybe will make you laugh. It should not. I am serious. The male dancer I like to watch, really the only one I like to watch, is an American -- Fred Astaire. He is the most interesting, the most inventive, the most elegant dancer of our times. I don't mean classical, of course, but dancing; he's so good at it that he ought to have a statue. I mean that absolutely. ... He is like Bach, who in his time had a great concentration of ability, essence, knowledge, a spread of music. Astaire has that same concentration of genius; there is so much of the dance in him that it has been distilled."
Ballroom To Barbell?
Weight lifting and ballroom dancing? Not something you'd normally think of together but according to a recent Reuters wire service story, some Olympic weightlifters "...like to emphasize that strategic finesse and delicate maneuvering are just as important as a tank-like torso in the battle for gold."..."German Julia Rohde, who competed in the 53kg class, was a competitive ballroom dancer before turning to weightlifting..."
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
New Book About Fred Astaire Coming Soon
Joseph Epstein's soon-to-be-released biography of Fred Astaire, Fred Astaire (Icons of America) explores Astaire's dancing talent, including the story of his life, his personality, his work habits, and his many accomplishments. The book discusses his early life with his sister, Adele, his gifts as a singer, and his many movie dance partners, including Cyd Charisse, Rita Hayworth, Eleanor Powell, and Betty Hutton. One chapter is devoted to Astaire's partnership with Ginger Rogers. According to Amazon, "What emerges from these pages is a fascinating view of an American era, seen through the accomplishments of Fred Astaire, an unassuming but uncompromising performer who transformed entertainment into art and gave America a new yet enduring standard for style."
Fred Astaire Owner In Off-Broadway Show
Kelly Gilmore, the owner of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Staten Island, NY, will appear in an Off-Broadway theatrical production of the classic American play, "Ten Nights in a Barroom" at the Bank Street Theatre in lower Manhattan from August 14-28. Gilmore has worked with celebs like Dustin Hoffman, Marlo Thomas, Bill Cosby, and Jennifer Grey, who he coached for Dirty Dancing.
Hip-Hop Dance Champion Admires Astaire
Joshua Allen is the hip-hop, mostly untrained, dancer who just won the So You Think You Can Dance championship on August 7th. Among dancers he admires, Joshua lists Mikhail Baryshnikov and Fred Astaire!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
New Studios!
New Fred Astaire Dance Studios are opening up around the country every month. New studios recently opened in these areas:
Charlotte, NC
Del Ray Beach, FL
San Diego, CA
Oceanside, CA
Huntington, NY
Click here for a studio directory to find other studios in your area.
Charlotte, NC
Del Ray Beach, FL
San Diego, CA
Oceanside, CA
Huntington, NY
Click here for a studio directory to find other studios in your area.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Beijing's Other Games: Dancing In The Park
NPR's All Things Considered reported on an unofficial "sport" going on this week during the Olympics. Every morning, thousands of people engage in their own brand of exercise: they dance. Here are some excerpts from the NPR article:
"At 7:30 a.m. in Red Scarf Park, it's time for Latin dance. Three hundred older Chinese are gliding across a polished stone floor in an outdoor pavilion.
The men wear pressed pants, and women twirl in pleated skirts. They do the tango, the Viennese waltz — even the jitterbug.
"I like dancing, I like music," says 52-year-old Ko Fengling, a regular. "I like it from the bottom of my heart. This way of working out is quite good. You can entertain yourself while you exercise."
Ko is retired from a clothing dye factory. Her dance partner is a former co-worker, Meng Xinghong, who seems shy.
When asked what draws him here, he takes the question the wrong way: He quickly points out that his relationship with his partner does not go beyond the dance floor.
"Working out has [a] lot of benefits," Meng says. "There's nothing else. I just like dancing."
Social Freedom With Dance
Fan Delong, who used to work in the Daqing Oil Fields in northeast China, enjoys the social freedom of dancing in the park. After retiring several years ago, he has come here every day in warm weather.
"There's no fixed partner," Fan says. "You can just look around whenever you come. When I invite people, if the person thinks I dance well, she'll accept my invitation. If she doesn't, I don't care. I can ask someone else."
And Fan — a lanky man who wears a baseball cap — says there are advantages to not dancing with your spouse.
"If you dance with your own people, there are more problems," Fan says. "If you make a wrong move and your wife says, 'You've stepped on my foot,' you have no other choice [but] to put up with it."
Beijingers have been ballroom dancing in parks for decades, but there was a time when they didn't. During the Cultural Revolution from 1966 to 1976, the government banned things it saw as foreign and bourgeois.
Lin Sunrong, who used to work as an interpreter for Chinese diplomats, describes that chaotic period in a diplomatic light.
"You could dance during the Cultural Revolution, but we didn't dance like the way we do today," Lin says. "It was revolutionary dance.""
"At 7:30 a.m. in Red Scarf Park, it's time for Latin dance. Three hundred older Chinese are gliding across a polished stone floor in an outdoor pavilion.
The men wear pressed pants, and women twirl in pleated skirts. They do the tango, the Viennese waltz — even the jitterbug.
"I like dancing, I like music," says 52-year-old Ko Fengling, a regular. "I like it from the bottom of my heart. This way of working out is quite good. You can entertain yourself while you exercise."
Ko is retired from a clothing dye factory. Her dance partner is a former co-worker, Meng Xinghong, who seems shy.
When asked what draws him here, he takes the question the wrong way: He quickly points out that his relationship with his partner does not go beyond the dance floor.
"Working out has [a] lot of benefits," Meng says. "There's nothing else. I just like dancing."
Social Freedom With Dance
Fan Delong, who used to work in the Daqing Oil Fields in northeast China, enjoys the social freedom of dancing in the park. After retiring several years ago, he has come here every day in warm weather.
"There's no fixed partner," Fan says. "You can just look around whenever you come. When I invite people, if the person thinks I dance well, she'll accept my invitation. If she doesn't, I don't care. I can ask someone else."
And Fan — a lanky man who wears a baseball cap — says there are advantages to not dancing with your spouse.
"If you dance with your own people, there are more problems," Fan says. "If you make a wrong move and your wife says, 'You've stepped on my foot,' you have no other choice [but] to put up with it."
Beijingers have been ballroom dancing in parks for decades, but there was a time when they didn't. During the Cultural Revolution from 1966 to 1976, the government banned things it saw as foreign and bourgeois.
Lin Sunrong, who used to work as an interpreter for Chinese diplomats, describes that chaotic period in a diplomatic light.
"You could dance during the Cultural Revolution, but we didn't dance like the way we do today," Lin says. "It was revolutionary dance.""
Ballroom Dancing Is For Everyone
In a recent local ABC show in Syracuse, NY, Tony Dovolani was interviewed about his latest experience on the last season of Dancing With The Stars. Click here to read more.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Guess Who?
Tom Selleck is the next rumored celebrity to star on this fall's season of Dancing With The Stars!
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Fred Astaire Comes To San Diego
With a new studio in San Diego and another one opening up in nearby Oceanside, Mr. Joey Fusina is putting Fred Astaire on the map in Southern California!
A perfect combination of white sandy beaches, a bustling metropolis, and a stunning coastline, San Diego County is a great place to live. Now Southern Californians - looking for exercise and a healthy alternative to hitting the nightlife - can turn to Fusina’s Fred Astaire studio for excitement and fun as they learn how to dance.
Fusina has had a successful career in the dance business for the past thirteen years. He recently joined the Fred Astaire association because he “likes the vision that Fred’s has” and truly believes in the company's mission.
Fusina is a Southern California native, born in Thousand Oaks, CA. Catching the dancing bug as early as 5th grade when he was part of the cotillion, he went on to compete as a member of an amateur formation dance team as a teenager. When he was in college at Sonoma State University, he was looking for a part-time job and answered an ad for a training class at a dance studio. From that moment on, he was hooked. Originally interested in becoming a Broadway actor, dancing fulfilled his dream to perform. A short two years later, when he was only twenty years old, he bought his first studio. Not only was he the youngest studio owner, he was also one of the most successful. He credits his past successes to “a little luck and being a really good people person, understanding people, and believing in them.”
A perfect combination of white sandy beaches, a bustling metropolis, and a stunning coastline, San Diego County is a great place to live. Now Southern Californians - looking for exercise and a healthy alternative to hitting the nightlife - can turn to Fusina’s Fred Astaire studio for excitement and fun as they learn how to dance.
Fusina has had a successful career in the dance business for the past thirteen years. He recently joined the Fred Astaire association because he “likes the vision that Fred’s has” and truly believes in the company's mission.
Fusina is a Southern California native, born in Thousand Oaks, CA. Catching the dancing bug as early as 5th grade when he was part of the cotillion, he went on to compete as a member of an amateur formation dance team as a teenager. When he was in college at Sonoma State University, he was looking for a part-time job and answered an ad for a training class at a dance studio. From that moment on, he was hooked. Originally interested in becoming a Broadway actor, dancing fulfilled his dream to perform. A short two years later, when he was only twenty years old, he bought his first studio. Not only was he the youngest studio owner, he was also one of the most successful. He credits his past successes to “a little luck and being a really good people person, understanding people, and believing in them.”
The Shoes Make The Dance
Louis van Amstel, Jonathan Roberts, Anna Trebunskaya, Paul Richardson, Olga Rodionova, Ilya Ifraimov and Nadia Goulina...What do these dancers have in common? They all wear DanceLife shoes!
DanceLife shoes are renowned for their superior styling, craftsmanship, and perfect fit. With superior cushioning and elegant styling, our shoes are durable, flexible, and comfortable. DanceLife is the official shoe sponsor for the hit TV show, “Dancing With The Stars.”
DanceLife shoes are renowned for their superior styling, craftsmanship, and perfect fit. With superior cushioning and elegant styling, our shoes are durable, flexible, and comfortable. DanceLife is the official shoe sponsor for the hit TV show, “Dancing With The Stars.”
Many well known couples have worn DanceLife shoes in some major competitions recently, including:
Ilya Ifraimov & Nadia Goulina
Pavlo Barsuk & Anna Trevunskaya
Artur Adamski & Alexsandra Plaza
Decho Kriev & Bree Watson
Ilya Reyzin & Amanda Reyzin
Igor Mikushov & Anna Demidova
Blaz Pocajt & Inna Berlizyeva
Artur Adamski & Alexsandra Plaza
Decho Kriev & Bree Watson
Ilya Reyzin & Amanda Reyzin
Igor Mikushov & Anna Demidova
Blaz Pocajt & Inna Berlizyeva
Possible Celebrities On Next Dancing With The Stars Season
The line-up for this fall's Dancing With The Stars won't be officially released until later this month but insiders report that Kim Kardashian will be battling against her mother, Kris Jenner with the possibility of being partnered with father/son professional dancers Mark and Corky Ballas.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Dare To Dance
The Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Chattanooga, TN is participating in Dare To Dance, a local version of Dancing With The Stars, on September 6th to benefit The Kidney Foundation of the Greater Chattanooga Area and the Partnership for Families, Children, and Adults agencies, two nonprofits serving families in Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. Teams will perform rehearsed dances at Chattanooga’s newest venue, The Mill. Attendees and local celebrity judges will vote for their favorites. Each dancer is spending the month of August practicing with Fred Astaire professional dancers at the Chattanooga studio in preparation for this exciting and worthwhile event.
So You Think You Can Dance Renewed
FOX has announced that So You Think You Can Dance will return for a fifth season next summer! This summer, both the Wednesday and Thursday night telecasts have ranked among the top five shows for adults between the ages of 19-49.
Don't miss the season finale of Season 4 on Wednesday, August 6 from 8-10 PM ET and Thursday, August 7 from 8-10 PM ET on FOX.
Weight Loss Week
The Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Buffalo Grove, Illinois held a "Weight Loss Week" in July. During this event, students were challenged to take as many group classes as possible and record how much weight they lose. The Buffalo Grove studio offers over 12 group classes a week that are free of charge to students who take at least one private lesson during the week. One of their most popular classes is the Ballroom Workout class that uses basic elements from Latin dances to create an exhilarating cardio workout!
Dancing For A Cause
On August 28th, 8 local celebrities in the Boca Raton, Florida area will team up with Fred Astaire professionals for Boca's Ballroom Battle. This dance competition benefits the George Snow Scholarship Fund, an organization providing educational grants to young scholars.
Gotta Dance
Fred Astaire Dance Studio student Julia Whedon wrote about her introduction to dancing*:
It was lunch hour. I was waiting for the light to change at the corner of Broadway and 57th Street. Chase Manhattan right behind me, Duane Reade due east, I was idly panning the lower floors of surrounding office buildings-that unseen phylum of fix your fiddle, store your fur, read your palm when I spotted a small fourth-floor sign: FRED ASTAIRE DANCE STUDIOS.
Incredible, I thought, the whole world gone mad, and they're still teaching ballroom dancing. In broad daylight. At high noon. On a lunch hour, maybe, Imagine. I not only imagined it, I imagined myself doing it. The genie was out of the bottle. I sprinted across 57th. I wanted to dance-a real dance with steps to music-and I wanted to do it at once.
I must have wanted to do this for a long time, maybe all my life. But how could I? Everything prevented it—the way music is, men are, what women have become. I'd been a fair dancer once —modern, ballet, that sort of thing. But Health came along and ruined all that. But Health came along and ruined all that. Dance became Exercise. And I'd never been in it for my thighs. Dancing is what you do about music, if it's in you to do it; and if it is and you don't, it becomes a blocked language, like sex. Fear arrived all cold and clammy in the elevator, What kind of guys would dance in a place like this? And what kind of woman would dance with guys like that? Panic. I needed an alibi. Too late. The doors parted. A huge wave of warm music broke over my head, lifting me from where I was and dropping me 'down to someplace new. Day turned into night. Eydie Gorme was belting out a samba.
A couple of hard-looking women in glittery pumps and practice clothes strutted past, looking like magicians' assistants. Beyond, on a large dance floor, two couples were performing extreme Latin dances with cocked hips. A well-muscled young man partnered a woman about sixty-bony in the sternum, ropy in the neck-the kind you hold doors for. Her dancing was not only beautiful, she danced as if she were beautiful. So did he. Was this possible? Didn't I know her from the express line at D'Agostino's? A slender, blond teacher skimmed across the floor with a nervous, bespectacled fellow near forty.
She danced him through her fingertips, smiling, moving as if he were doing it all. I was escorted into an office and told that I could have a half-hour evaluation for $12. I would have paid them $800 just to dance for five minutes like the lady from D'Agostino's.
I was introduced to my teacher, Robert Pike. He wasn't what I expected. Sixty maybe, with a kind of Melvyn Douglas face, he led me into a private studio. I followed, suddenly appalled at what I'd done. Chatting pleasantly, he cued up a tape, took me firmly in his arms and. moved me out across the floor.
Just a word about firmly. You can tell a lot from the way a man swings an ax, snaps the ball or leans into a canter. This guy was the real thing. I don't know what he saw in the wraparound mirrors, but I saw a heroine from the silents being swept downstream, heading for the falls.
He had me dancing in five minutes, really dancing in ten. Waltz, swing, rumba. Half these dances I didn't even know--except I was doing them. “You've danced before,” Mr. Pike remarked. Here comes the pitch, I thought. But he was right: I had. I told him about lessons, once upon a time in Hollywood, at Arthur Murray. "Was that the studio on Wilshire?" Mr. Pike asked. It was. It turns out to be one of the first places he taught. Coincidence is a marvelous thing and got us talking. He told me (side, together, close) about himself, Growing up in Atlanta, the Marines (quick, quick, slow), performing with Les Brown, Hollywood in the Forties. I couldn't tell by this time if I was dancing to the story or the music. This guy was ballroom dancing.
I signed up for ten lessons, which included optional Friday night practice sessions with the staff and other students. I wasn't so sure about those. Private lunch-hour assignations were one thing public admission another. But after three lessons I was so dance crazed I was ready to try anything. I like to think of myself as a grown-up lady. I've been in boardrooms and labor rooms, stopped arterial bleeding, made a citizen's arrest, given speeches, but never with the surge of anxiety I experienced walking into that practice session.
There I am, alone in my party dress. Suddenly big music fills the air. Instantly, Mr. Pike is at my side. From that moment, I am never not dancing with him or someone else. I meet a deli owner from Queens, a scientist from Columbia, an Estee Lauder exec. Doing this dancing in public for the first time with strangers is a little like trying out your French on a Frenchman.
"Nice samba," says a partner at my third practice session.
"Like your waltz," says another. "Very light."
"It's true," says a teacher who coaches competitors, "you can go as far as you want."
Go where? What's he talking about? Competition. They think I am dancing very well, they think I should consider competing. I’m flattered, of course.
There is a newcomers' contest scheduled a month hence. I should think about it. It's excellent preparation for the Eastern Regional’s. I'm dumbstruck.
*reprinted from the Fred Astaire Cincinnati newsletter
It was lunch hour. I was waiting for the light to change at the corner of Broadway and 57th Street. Chase Manhattan right behind me, Duane Reade due east, I was idly panning the lower floors of surrounding office buildings-that unseen phylum of fix your fiddle, store your fur, read your palm when I spotted a small fourth-floor sign: FRED ASTAIRE DANCE STUDIOS.
Incredible, I thought, the whole world gone mad, and they're still teaching ballroom dancing. In broad daylight. At high noon. On a lunch hour, maybe, Imagine. I not only imagined it, I imagined myself doing it. The genie was out of the bottle. I sprinted across 57th. I wanted to dance-a real dance with steps to music-and I wanted to do it at once.
I must have wanted to do this for a long time, maybe all my life. But how could I? Everything prevented it—the way music is, men are, what women have become. I'd been a fair dancer once —modern, ballet, that sort of thing. But Health came along and ruined all that. But Health came along and ruined all that. Dance became Exercise. And I'd never been in it for my thighs. Dancing is what you do about music, if it's in you to do it; and if it is and you don't, it becomes a blocked language, like sex. Fear arrived all cold and clammy in the elevator, What kind of guys would dance in a place like this? And what kind of woman would dance with guys like that? Panic. I needed an alibi. Too late. The doors parted. A huge wave of warm music broke over my head, lifting me from where I was and dropping me 'down to someplace new. Day turned into night. Eydie Gorme was belting out a samba.
A couple of hard-looking women in glittery pumps and practice clothes strutted past, looking like magicians' assistants. Beyond, on a large dance floor, two couples were performing extreme Latin dances with cocked hips. A well-muscled young man partnered a woman about sixty-bony in the sternum, ropy in the neck-the kind you hold doors for. Her dancing was not only beautiful, she danced as if she were beautiful. So did he. Was this possible? Didn't I know her from the express line at D'Agostino's? A slender, blond teacher skimmed across the floor with a nervous, bespectacled fellow near forty.
She danced him through her fingertips, smiling, moving as if he were doing it all. I was escorted into an office and told that I could have a half-hour evaluation for $12. I would have paid them $800 just to dance for five minutes like the lady from D'Agostino's.
I was introduced to my teacher, Robert Pike. He wasn't what I expected. Sixty maybe, with a kind of Melvyn Douglas face, he led me into a private studio. I followed, suddenly appalled at what I'd done. Chatting pleasantly, he cued up a tape, took me firmly in his arms and. moved me out across the floor.
Just a word about firmly. You can tell a lot from the way a man swings an ax, snaps the ball or leans into a canter. This guy was the real thing. I don't know what he saw in the wraparound mirrors, but I saw a heroine from the silents being swept downstream, heading for the falls.
He had me dancing in five minutes, really dancing in ten. Waltz, swing, rumba. Half these dances I didn't even know--except I was doing them. “You've danced before,” Mr. Pike remarked. Here comes the pitch, I thought. But he was right: I had. I told him about lessons, once upon a time in Hollywood, at Arthur Murray. "Was that the studio on Wilshire?" Mr. Pike asked. It was. It turns out to be one of the first places he taught. Coincidence is a marvelous thing and got us talking. He told me (side, together, close) about himself, Growing up in Atlanta, the Marines (quick, quick, slow), performing with Les Brown, Hollywood in the Forties. I couldn't tell by this time if I was dancing to the story or the music. This guy was ballroom dancing.
I signed up for ten lessons, which included optional Friday night practice sessions with the staff and other students. I wasn't so sure about those. Private lunch-hour assignations were one thing public admission another. But after three lessons I was so dance crazed I was ready to try anything. I like to think of myself as a grown-up lady. I've been in boardrooms and labor rooms, stopped arterial bleeding, made a citizen's arrest, given speeches, but never with the surge of anxiety I experienced walking into that practice session.
There I am, alone in my party dress. Suddenly big music fills the air. Instantly, Mr. Pike is at my side. From that moment, I am never not dancing with him or someone else. I meet a deli owner from Queens, a scientist from Columbia, an Estee Lauder exec. Doing this dancing in public for the first time with strangers is a little like trying out your French on a Frenchman.
"Nice samba," says a partner at my third practice session.
"Like your waltz," says another. "Very light."
"It's true," says a teacher who coaches competitors, "you can go as far as you want."
Go where? What's he talking about? Competition. They think I am dancing very well, they think I should consider competing. I’m flattered, of course.
There is a newcomers' contest scheduled a month hence. I should think about it. It's excellent preparation for the Eastern Regional’s. I'm dumbstruck.
*reprinted from the Fred Astaire Cincinnati newsletter
Bruce Hasson Coming to DC Studio
Bruce Hasson will be available for coaching at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Washington, D.C., August 12-13. Bruce is a full certified dance consultant with the Fred Astaire franchise, holding many Top Teacher Awards from both regional and national competitions. He also is a member of the Fred Astaire Dance Board and is an accomplished choreographer and coach. Call the studio today for more information: (703) 876-1773.
Daytona's Gotta Dance!
Local celebrities will light up the dance floor with the help of Fred Astaire professionals on Saturday, August 9th at the Seaside Music Theater in Daytona, Florida. The dancers will strut their stuff before a live audience who will vote on their overall performance: dancing, choreography, costume, and choice of music.
Monday, August 04, 2008
Dancing For Babies
The Fred Astaire Studio in Chicago recently participated in a charity event to benefit the March of Dimes. On July 31st, 5 local celebrities competed in a local Dancing With The Stars challenge with professional Fred Astaire dancers. All proceeds went to benefit the March of Dimes. The Chicago studios were very excited to be able to participate in such an important event and look forward to many more opportunities to benefit their community through the wonderful world of dance.
Click here to view a video of the event.
Click here to view a video of the event.
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