DanceTalk - The Archives
Feburary 2004
Thank for
Visiting the Archieves of Ron's Dance Talk
Ron Bess & daughter
picture courtesy of Eric Novoa
LINKS of INTEREST - for HUSTLE
Click on Flames to Burn on to the -
DanceTalk * 2-24-04
Happy birthday wishes to Kathleen Harbison, Jeannie DeVos, Beryl Zarlie ,Bernadette Currie, Donna DiSommone, and DJ Rene Hewitt.
Raluca Georgiana , 2002 Open World Hustle champion, has choreographed the off-Broadway musical, "Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris," playing at the West Bank Cafe, the Laurie Beechman Theater, 407 West 42nd St. @ 9th Ave. Wed. 2/25 at 7pm, Fri. 2/27, at 7pm, Sat. 2/28 at 2pm, Sun. 2/29 at 6pm. Tickets can be bought on the spot for $20!
If you haven't qualified yet for the Van McCoy Contest here is your chance. The 10th and final regional competition takes place this coming weekend in New Orleans. See details below or visit http://www.hustleneworleans.com
Every Tuesday and Thursday there are dance socials and lessons at the Virginia Ballroom, 8442 Lee Hightway Merrifield. For WCS and Hustle check out these hot nights with Debbie Tuttle. For details visit http://dcdancenet.com/dancingtuttles/
dancewithdebbie@comcast.net
Entertainment Weekly says Dirty Dancing 2 "Havana Nights," "... is not a sequel, It's a companion piece,'' explains producer Lawrence Bender. As a salsa-dancing waiter, ''Diego Luna flashes his hungry eyes at newcomer Romola Garai (''Nobody puts Romola in a corner!'') in prerevolutionary 1950s Cuba. Promises the producer, ''There will be plenty of hot stuff going on.''
Mad Jam is coming.. mark your calendars to attend March 26-28th, visit the website http://www.AtlanticDanceJam.com and look for more details below. Digital Dave Moldover is your host and will be making a guest DJ appearance this week at The Atrium Dance Center this Friday in NJ.
The New York Premiere of "Maestro" the documentary film 4 years in the making, which contains legendary footage and interviews with DJ's like Francis Grasso and Rene Hewlett. For info on MAESTRO go to http://maestro-documentary.com/ It opens march 12th at the Quad Cinema on 13th St. It will play 5 shows a day, only for as long as people attend.
Please find below, part 2 out of 3, listing the finest hustle dance teachers in the USA. Print it out for future use.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Letters To The Editor
Ron, I have one more dance etiquette for you to add to your great list.
If you turn someone down for a dance, don't turn around and dance with someone else during that same song.
Robin
Hi Ron,
I really enjoyed your feature on Nelly Cotto. I still to this day remember her dancing on television. It is amazing that she is still a super performer....... I only wish I still lived in NY and could attend some of the big dance partys. I have become a dancetalk junkie. My kids think I'm nuts when i jump up every tuesday morning and flip on my PC to read the news. Keep up the great work. BTW, ever hear from Philippine Paulie? Where is he living now?
thanks,
Debbie Costello
(DT Response) I bumped into Paulie last year at the Paladium in Florida. I believe he still lives and dances in that area. Best regards Debbie, Ron
Hustle Dance Directory (part 2)
Here is a comprehensive list (the second of three parts) listing the top dance teachers for hustle thru out the USA. These instructors are all professionals with extensive backgrounds in dance. Although they may not be from your town, when visiting or attending a dance convention / competition, contact them in advance to arrange to attend their group classes and/or private lessons
Keith Gussoni
City, State: New Orleans, LA
Studio(s) affiliation: HustleNewOrleans, Club Silhouette Dance Studio, Starlight Dance Studio
E mail address: hustleneworleans@aol.com
Website: www.hustleneworleans.com
Phone number: 504-220-5560
Gregory Harrison
Pleasanton, Ca 94566
gregory@hustledance.com
www.hustledance.com
(925) 846-8942 (510) 593-9800 cellular
Ashkenaz Dance Center, 1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley, Ca
Mark James
Long Island & New York City
specializing in Adagio, Hustle, NY "2", WCS
dannsirs@aol.com
http://www.mjames.org/
516.835.9996
Phil LaMothe
Boonton & Rhythm In Shoes studio
Lamothe@prodigy.net , philiptl@optonline.net
www.rhythminshoes.com
(973) 335-9920
Karen Lupo
Long Island, NY
Specializing in Hustle & Latin
http://www.mjames.org/markkaren.html
631.696.3098
Jennifer Lynn
Hackensack, New Jersey
Battista Dance Studio
http://www.battistadancestudio.com
1-201-525-0102
Billy Marti
Dancesport, Manhattan New York
1-212-307-1111, 1-917-496-3667
Moralesmarti@aol.com
Theatre Arts, Jazz, Hip Hop, Hustle
Julia St. Marie
Las Vegas, NV
Studio(s) affiliation---Dance Fitness and Sport and LV Dance Sport
E mail-- Stjulia001@yahoo.com and hustlexplosion@yahoo.com
Web site---www.Hustlexplosion.com (being built at this time)
Phone number 702-355-4663 and 702-791-1094
Daniel McGee
Philadelphia, PA
Top Hat Dance Studio
dmhustle@yahoo.com
www.tophatdancestudio.com
215-676-3100
Diane K Nardone
Washington Township, NJ
DKN Dance Studio & World Hustle Dance Championships
E mail address Diane@dkndance.com
Web site www.dkndance.com
Phone number 201 666 6224
Look for part 3, of our Hustle Directory, in two weeks.
DanceTalk * 2-17-04
Happy Birthday wishes to Kathy Kritsky, Drew Axelrod, Tony Thompson and David Seneca.
The first 50 ladies attending Michael's Cafe (Tuesday Feb 17th) will receive a post Valentine's Day Rose, courtesy of a fellow dancer, that appreciates and admires them for their passion of The Love of Dance.
This week marks the third anniversary of "Ginger's Wish," which was held in 2001 at the Stardust Ballroom in Pennsauken, NJ. Hundreds of dancers came out to support our dear friend, the late Virginia DiMaio. She is sadly missed.
Dance Mania returns to the Las Vegas Hilton every Sunday leading up to the finals on April 28th. Over $5,000 awarded in cash and prizes including weekly $250.00 for 1st, $100.00 for 2nd, and $50.00 for 3rd place. Visit the website and see more details below. http://www.discostepbystep.com/lv_hilton.htm
Wishing a quick recovery to Elisabeth "Betty Ann" Craner. Hope to see you on the dance floor soon.
This Thursday morning, Feb 19th, Gloria Gaynor will guest on the Fox News Channel to talk about the key role she will play in this years 2004 World Peace Awards which will be held in Viet Nams capitol city of Hanoi-recently named a UNESCO City Of Peace. Gloria was the recipient in 2003 of a World Peace Music Award.
Every Saturday starting in March, Zachary's, in East Meadow, NY will be holding a 10 week dance contest for thousands of dollars in cash and prizes. More details coming next week in DanceTalk.
Good bye to "Jack Rose," Manhattans leading Swing venue. It has been sold to the Bennigans Restaurant chain and is closing its doors. Unfortunately, the Special Night of Swing on Sunday, Feb. 22nd has been canceled.
Work is also underway on a new movie release, Felix The Cat Saves Christmas, a multimillion dollar production of Good Times Entertainment and producer Don Oriolo, who runs the Felix empire for his cartoon client. The film will feature the voices of actors Tom Bosley and Dave Coullier, along with new music by multi-platinum diva, Gloria Gaynor, an admitted Felix fan.
Make it a great week,
Ron
"Jenny's Dance Picks"
"The first lady" of dance is on 103.5 FM, the number one dance station in the nation WKTU in New York. Mixmaster DJ Jenny Costa sets the tone. Jenny keeps a close pulse on the music by staying active in the night club scene. She currently spins on Thursday evenings at the Mirage in Westbury Long Island from 9PM on... and on Friday's at Mirage from 4 to 9PM. Saturdays is Zachary's in East Meadow Long Island. A major dance competition begins at Zachary's this March. Stay tuned.
Here are her top 10 picks for February 2004,
1. THE WAY YOU MOVE - OUTCAST
2. ALL THINGS - WILDLIFE
3. AS THE RUSH COMES - MOTORCYCLE
4. TOXIC - BRITNEY SPEARS
5. JUST A LITTLE MORE LOVE - DAVID GUETTA
6. FREE - SARAH BRIGHTMAN
7. GIA - DESPINA VANDI
8. GIRLFRIEND - ROBBI RIVERA
9. IF I WERE YOU - CANDEE JAY
10.YOU PROMISED ME - INGRID
Dance Etiquette and Beyond.
A dance guide to sharing space, avoiding accidents and having fun.
Many dancers love to showcase their skills by taking center stage on a crowded dance floor. Naturally this can lead to injuries and a chiropractic visit the next day if your partner wasn't expecting to be dipped, lifted or thrown across the dance floor.
Here are some tips to make the dance experience enjoyable for everyone.
* Don't over extend your bounds on a crowded dance floor.
Respect the space of those around you. Don't over project with your arms or over use the dance floor at the expense of colliding with another couple.
* Refrain from bringing bottles or drinks onto the dance floor. This can lead to a slippery dance floor, broken glass which could cause an injury.
* Respect others feelings -- birthday dances, special events etc.. give the dancer their just do's. Wait till their "15 seconds" of fame are over.
* Dance attire, dance shoes are always best for balance and movement. Shoes and or dance sneakers designed for dancing will give you ample toe flexibility and comfort. Avoid baggy clothing, strappy outfits that can swing and hit your partner.
* Dips and lifts are best executed in shows and competitions. Avoid these type of movements in a club or social setting unless you're par taking in a competition. Injuries can occur when positioned in correctly on a crowded dance floor.
* Social dancing includes patterns and leads that bring dancers very CLOSE to one another. Good hygiene is a must. Be cognizant, carry a pack of mints, cologne, etc...check it out before an embarrassing situation takes place.
* Respect others privacy to video taping or snapping pictures, unless, given consent. Nobody minds being taped but to zoom in on someone for an extended period of time can be perceived as offensive.
* Keep the dance area clear of smoke. Avoid smoking near the dance floor.
* Cutting in is considered socially acceptable as long as both parties are in agreement. Make sure you get a nod or a verbal agreement that cutting in is okay.
* Take the time to dance with someone new. Get into the habit of making new friends and giving everyone the opportunity to dance.
* A well executed lead/follow comes from a good hand connection with your partner. Avoid wearing to many rings that may interfere with a comfortable grip.
* Slips and falls can happen. Be attentive by giving your partner support should they lose their step or balance.
* Dance to the level of your partner. Dancing takes two, adjust to the skill level of your partner.
* If you have the misfortune of bumping into someone, step on a toe etc... take a moment to make sure they are okay by extending an apology. It goes along way.
DanceTalk * 2-10-04
Happy Valentine's Day.
Birthday wishes to Vince Montana Jr, Zulma Rodriquez, Yvette Rivera, Frank Zarlie and Arte Phillips
Head over to the "new" Copacobana , in NY this Tuesday Feb. 10th. The party starts at 6:00PM with free admission. Come out and celebrate Zulma's birthday. The Copa is now located on 34th Street and 11th Avenue.
Due to circumstances beyond their control, The World Hustle Dance Championships, WHDC, has changed their original dates of July 29 - Aug.1 to July 15 - 18, 2004. The Hilton in Parsippany, NJ will be hosting the event this year instead of the Crowne Plaza in Secaucus, NJ. Please make a note of this. More information coming next week in DanceTalk.
Joel Schumacher brings to the silver screen his adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Weber's "The Phantom of the Opera" this coming December at movie theaters everywhere.
Grand opening of a new night club, The Loft Bar , on Feb 20th above Top Dog in Cherry Hill NJ, (856) 486 - 1001 http://www.loftbar.net
The long a waited " Dirty Dancing 2" hits movie screens Feb. 27th, the new CD will be released on Feb 17th featuring the music of Mya, Black Eyed Peas, Santana, Monica, Heather Headley.... http://movies.yahoo.com/shop?d=hp&cf=prev&id= 1808403732
"When Disco Ruled the World" will air on VH1 this month, Feb 28th.
Dancer, promoter, Billy Fajardo is interviewed as part of this TV documentary.
Bon Voyage to our friends heading out on the Hustle Cruise this weekend on the Royal Caribbean. www.hustlecruise.com
Twice a month, Brian Gallagher is hosting a Friday night hustle party at The Atrium located in NJ. See details below.
I hope you enjoy the inspiring spotlight feature on George Velazquez .
Hustle dancing since 1971, George has left his stamp on the dance.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Spot Light
George Velazquez
His spins were so quick he earned the nick name "White Lightning." But this dynamic dancer would experience a turn in his dance career that wasn't choreographed. George Velazquez was the victim of a horrific automobile accident that took him in a new direction. His will power and determination never diminished as he continues to be a dance inspiration to others.
As a young boy growing up in the heart of New York, George was always dancing.
"At home there was always dancing and, being Hispanic, salsa, which is what they call it today, was in the house hold so I always remember dancing and how easy it came to me." In 1971 just out of high school, George hung out at clubs like the Rum Bottom and Habitat in Long Island. After seeing a dance contest he developed the competitive dance bug. "There was a tall couple Ritchie and Stephanie and Craig Yee and Cindy Wafsi. Cindy could spin like a top.. the girls started to teach me the basic steps. I caught on very quick and Craig and I became well known and popular in the dance clubs. An agent spotted the guys and they were hired to perform and tour for the next two years with singing star "Andre True Connection." George was only 18 years old. Initially the dance team consisted of Craig, Hillary, Mia and George. But during the second year the troop reformed and two new dancers were recruited (Linda Rodriquez and Barbara Percopio) the new girls "knocked everybody's socks off."
When the tour was complete it was back to the clubs and competitions. "My first contest was at Habitat on Hempsted Turnpike. Thats where I met Chuck Fetta, Tony Genova, Billy and Sandra, Angel Figueroa, David Elkin, Ralph and Lucille Lew, Ray and Loraina, Holly and Linda, Danny and Javiar, Maria Torres, John Allisino" From there he moved onto some big contests held at Penrods, Chaz, Decamerons, Rum Bottoms, Cherries, Uncle Sams, Feathers, Poor Peters..... George took first place at 3 major competitions in Long Island ..Chaz, Decamerons, and Penrods. His boat had arrived. With an out going personality and big smile... the opportunities kept coming.
From 1975 to 1981, George joined the Ralph Lew Dance Company. " I had a dance partner named Ann Boccino, she and I brought the entire crowd at Madison Square Gardens to their feet in a standing ovation when we finished our segment of the show. This was for the Harvest Moon Ball."
Together with partner Gail Bloom, they performed at many of the major hotels thru out the Catskills and won a competition to perform on the syndicated TV show "Dance Fever." George was grateful for the national television exposure although they didn't win. After taking dance lessons in technical ballroom and theater dance, George landed a spot in the touring company for "A Choirs Line." This was one of his biggest dance highlights.
But a freak accident would occur after leaving a night club and his car stalled. After pushing his car to safety he lost his finger when the car hood came crashing down.
But the show went on, he had developed an incredible following and agents ran to him for his male burlesque review. From 1980 to 1990, "George White Lightning" had a 10 year booking in the Catskills. Along with dance partner Gail, he became the opening act for some of the top entertainers in the country. George was at the top of his game when tragedy struck again. In 1994 he was the victim of a hit and run accident. George would go thru multiple operations but the doctors were unable to save his full leg. He lost his knee on down. "After I lost my leg, I did a competition in Texas to see how far I could go. Well, without any one knowing (I was missing a leg), I came in 3rd. Then at the very end when we were asked to do our honor dance, I took my leg off and silence came upon the room... then a loud thunder took my breath away as people jumped to there feet and my dance partner Lady Farris was there with me. She was my therapy back to dancing." George continued to compete but he literally trashed his leg. "Fast turns, 12 hours a day dancing and swelling caused additional problems." Additional surgery would require virtually the whole leg to be removed due to infection. He had come so far. George performed on Don Kirshner's Rock concert with The Andrea True Connection, "Dance Fever," The Phil Donahue Show with Chuck Fetta, Gail Bloom and Marie, "Star Search" where he performed a solo tap dance. In 1996, he was asked to do the shows for all the Paralimpians that came into the US from all over the world. "I had a running show for close to 7 months."
Today, George judges competitions (he took his judges exam) and teaches Latin, coaches and also does Choreography for the able bodied as well as for dancers in wheelchairs. "I work with the disable or anyone who has lost a limb... the idea is to let them know that life goes on after amputation. I belong to the largest amputee group in the US, the ACA, ( Amputee coalition of America )."
"My dance goal is to dance with all my old buddies from way back when. I have done most of what I wanted to do on 2 legs now with one leg all I want to do is let everyone know life is not all that easy, But I am OK and one day soon we need to all get together and dance the night away" expresses George.
Saying he is great, would be an understatement. George continues to inspire others and make his visions a reality.
DanceTalk * 2-3-04
Happy Birthday wishes to DJ Nelson "Paradise" Roman, Bernard Martinez and Bob Scott.
Congratulations to Jonathan Laub on his recent marriage. Jonathan is a former Harvest Moonball champion. We wish Jonathan and Fern only the best.
Wishing a quick recovery and well wishes to DJ Nelson Roman's mother, who underwent quadruple bypass surgery and to Jami Josephson's step-dad, who is recuperating from cancer surgery. Please keep them in your prayers.
Nominations for 2004 induction into the “Dance Music Hall Of Fame,” were announced at the MIDEM Conference in Cannes, France. The nominees are legendary artists Gloria Gaynor, the late Barry White, the BeeGees, Donna Summer, James Brown, Chic, The Trammps, KC & The Sunshine Band, and MFSB.
The new Musical "Bombay Dreams" from producer Andrew Lloyd Webber opens in NY City on April 29th
Valentine's Day is around the corner, now is the time to place that special order. Contact the dancing florists Bruce & Jannette Axelrod, or visit their website
http://www.axelrodflowers.com (800) 468-3530. E mail Jaxelrod1@hotmail.com
The long awaited new CD from Janet Jackson hits record stores on Feb 24th. What a send off she gave at the Super bowl!!!!
Each Thursday, during the month of February, Diane K Nardone will be teaching at the Colorado Cafe in Watchung NJ, 7:40 Lesson http://www.dkndance.com
Below is the first, of three parts, of our 2004 Hustle Teacher Directory. Please print this out and save it for future reference. These are the top instructors thru out the USA.
Make It a Great Week,
Ron
Regional Van McCoy Contest
This past weekend, Washington, DC was the place to be for the regional Van McCoy Dance Competition. Joyce Szili hosted the evening along with Billy Fajardo from IHSC. Each first place team moves on to the finals in Miami April 1 - 4th, 2004. http://www.hustleandsalsa.com
Congratulations to all the dancers.
Amateur Division
First Place - Sam and Punkin Habet
Second Place - Joel Halsband and Alison Taylor
Third Place - Paul Brundage and Lillie Sudler
Professional Division
First Place - Brian and Silvana Gallagher
Second Place - Mal and Linda Zerden
Dance Teacher Directory
Here is a comprehensive list (the first of three parts) listing the top dance teachers for hustle thru out the USA. These instructors are all professionals with extensive backgrounds in dance. Although they may not be from your town, when visiting or attending a dance convention / competition, contact them in advance to arrange to attend their group classes and/or private lessons.
Raul Ante
Brisbane, CA
415-467-8830
Studios: Buddy Party Dance Studio in San Jose, CA: Club Xennon Ballroom in
Daly City, CA: Starlite Ballroom in Sunnyvale, CA: Rhythm Street Dance
Studio in Dublin, CA
e-mail: bigdaddy_ante @hotmail.com or bigdaddy-ante@excite.com
Donna J. Boyle
10 Gordon Lane, Erdenheim Pa 19038
Universal Dance Center, Collingswood NJ
donnaboyledisco@aol.com
http://discoamerica.com
215- 233- 5507 - home, 215-740 -disco -cell
Top Hat Dance studio, northeast Philly, north penn YMCA, north wayles pa
Tiffany Brown
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and New York City, NY
Studio(s) affiliation: Top Hat Dance Studio
E mail address: Love2Hustle@Yahoo.com
Phone number: 410-303-2828<
Melody Cochran
(818) 609-9012
5221 Bothwell Road
Tarzana, California 91356
Underground Dance Studio
adancindiva@aol.com
MelodyCochran.com
Laura Cozik & Erik Novoa
NYC, NY
Empire Dance Studio
www.empiredance.com
212-645-2441
Laura: hustledancer718@aol.com / 917-748-4494
Erik: swingshoes@aol.com / 917-414-3105
Website: www.swingshoes.net
Elizabeth Darchi
NEW YORK
Independent Teacher
E mail address darchibeth@yahoo.com
Phone number 718-256-6473
Robert Finocchio
New York City, NY and Philadelphia, PA
Studio(s) affiliation: Top Hat Dance Studio
E mail address: Robert@Finocchio.name
Phone number: 917-747-5395
Susan Fritz
New York City, NY
No studio affiliation
susankayfritz@nyc.rr.com
917.447.6414
Silvana Gallagher
Philadelphia, PA
Studio 101 DanceSport, Philadelphia
La Luna Dance Studio, Bensalem
http://www.Ladyhustle.com
215.815.1219
Deano Georgio
Los Angeles CA.
Teaches independently and at Hollywood Dance Studio
Specializing in Adagio, Acrobatics, Styling and Routines Deangeorgio@aol.com
323 656 2298 323 365 6553
(Part 2 in three weeks)
Dance Favorites for 2003 (Courtesy of Sheila Purkey)
Here they are!! The results BY YOU. (Readers choice awards). As always with our group - there were the Westies and the Shaggers! So I'll share with you who the favorites were in each group
Favorite DJ - WCS - John Lindo; Shag - Butch Metcalf
Favorite Female Dancer - WCS - Tatiana Mollman; Shag - Nikki Kontoulous
Favorite Male Dancer - WCS Robert Royston; Shag Joey Sogulizzo
Favorite Dance Couple - WCS Angel & Debbie; Shag Michael & Leann
Favorite Female Instructor - WCS Sharlott Bott; Shag Jackie McGee
Favorite Male Instructor - WCS Robert Royston; Shag Sam West
Dance Person of the Year - WCS Brian Faust; Shag Sam West
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