Happy birthday wishes to John
Aulicino, Star Seguinot, Mikhail
Baryshnikov, Tina Carlo-Mercado, Tony Troiano,
George Velazquez, Mimi Doi, Yana Brin,
Lisa Ciao and Shakira.
Dance legend Gene Kelly passed away 13 years ago.
His slick moves and the class and elegance he brought to the stage will
live on forever on film in classics like "Singing In The
Rain"
Please check out the wonderful review of the Arte
Philips Tribute. Great footage
and interviews with Stephanie Risser, Joe Kerner,
Maria Torres, Nicola Royston and Billy Marti. http://tinyurl.com/d2yam8
Our good dance friend and photographer extraordanaire Fred
Fedak, went in for hernia surgery today. After he
recovers he will then go through physical therapy. Lets
collectively give him some positive thoughts to make this
difficult procedure go fine. We look forward to seeing him out
on the dance floor soon.
Hats off to Motown Records. They just celebrated
their 50 year anniversary. Known as the sound of young America.
Berry Gordy, a former boxer with a few bucks began this
incredible journey signing the top talent to record contracts and
building a music empire. Some of his artists included Jackie
Wilson, Stevie Wonder and the Jackson Five.
You can view photos from the birthday celebration for DJ Noel
Colon that were taken at the Opera House Dance Party
this past weekend. You can viewed them on his web
site at http://www.SFLDJ.com
Auditions for female dancers are being
held for a new touring magic show overseas. You must be at
least 21 with strong dance experience. Your be working with large stage
illusions and must have a valid passport.
Audition on Feb 7 - at 1:00 PM, doors open at 12 noon at Dante Hall
Theater of the Arts, 14 North Mississippi Avenue, 3rd floor studio,
Atlantic City, NJ. Phone: 609-344-8877 - http://www.dantehall.org
High Five to Evie Hoover and Jeff
Kurtz. They competed in a big dance contest in Scranton Pa and were one
of the couples chosen (out of 24 couples) to go to the
"Dancing With The Stars" tour performance on Feb 3rd,
but it gets better. They will be dancing
on stage as part of the show.
The Current United States Professional Cabaret Champions Eric
Luna & Georgia Ambarian were eliminated last week on
the televisions show Superstars Of Dance. The show continues
tonight on the NBC network with the Grand
Finale.
Don't miss the Classic dance night at Michael's Cafe,
this Wednesday night, Jan 28th in Bensalem
Pa. They will be celebrating Wingo Hom's birthday too. Come
out to hear the best in hustle dance music with DJ Mark. The best part
is, it's all free. No cover and free
parking.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Mad Jam.
Coming March 5th to the 8th in the Nation's capitol. Read all
about it below. http://www.dancejamproductions.com
Make it a great week, Ron
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Mad Jam 2009
It keeps getting better and better. Each year the Mid Atlantic Dance
Jam just turns it up a notch. Organizer Dave Moldover knows the value
of delivering a great event and he has pushed the bar even
higher.
Come join the biggest dance gathering in the Mid Atlantic for the 7th
Annual Mad Jam. This is the party that everyone
rates with 5 stars. Lock in the dates, March 5 -
8th. It's only 6 weeks away. Four days of non stop dance
fun. Last year nearly 1,500 dancers made the trip to
the nation's capitol. Over 1000 room nights have already been
booked for 2009. The hotel is nearly sold out....don't
procrastinate. Dave brings together the best of Hustle, West
Coast Swing and Hand dancing with a talented staff of over 50
professionals. Leave your tuxedo at home as this fun
friendly atmosphere makes dancing a true party. Dancers have registered
from nearly every state, including Canada, UK, France
and Australia. Charter busses are coming from
Buffalo, NY and CT.
Great workshops, competitions, performances, welcome party, Saturday
Midnight Breakfast buffet and over $18,000 in prizes. New for 2009, a
"Dance Superstars Show" featuring Hustle and West Coast Swing.
MadJam is affiliated with the Masters National Swing Dance Tour, Novice
Tour - A.A.N.C.E., World Swing Council, International Hustle
Dance Association and National Fast Dance Association. Book your room
now at the Sheraton Premiere Tyson's Corner Virginia. Just minutes from
Dulles Airport. (703) 448 - 1234 at only $112 per night, while rooms
are still available. But as usual, the hotel will sell out. You can
book a room now, risk free.
With over 45 workshops you can take WCS lessons from: Jordan
Frisbee & Tatiana Mollmann, Robert & Nicola Royston,
Parker Dearborn & Jessica Cox, Arjay Centeno & Melissa
Rutz, Jason Miklic & Sophy Kdep, Jason Barnes
& Erica Berg, Markus Smith & Deonna Ball, Kevin
Fitzhugh & Tammy Brown, Barry Durand, Debbie
Ramsey....plus many more. Then get ready to hustle with Billy
Fajardo & Katie Marlow, Kelvin Roche & Lori Ann
Greenhouse, Keith & Celeste Gussoni, Danny McGee &
Jameson Kilburn, Silvana Gallagher, Donna Boyle, Lori Brizzi, Billy
Marti, Brian Gallagher, Kim Vanaman, Tina Price, Elizabeth Darchi,
Louie Orlando, Fred Price, Joyce Szili, Diane Nardone, Tybaldt
& Hazel Ulrich, and a DJ staff including - Steve Neeren, Erik
Novoa, Vicki Kay, John Lindo,
Louie St. George, Victor Loveira, Wes Carrajat.......Your Emcee's are
Bill Cameron, Robert Royston, Ron Bess and Dave Moldover.
Lock in your room now to take part in the weekend extravaganza that
people haven't stopped talking about since last year.
MadJam is the World’s Largest Hustle competition.
Remember there are your typical dance events and competitions
then, there is Mad Jam. http://www.dancejamproductions.com
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
New York Record Pool - Top Ten
Here are the hottest new dance songs rocking the chart. These
are brand new songs that your hear at dance clubs, satellite and on
dance radio stations. These singles are ideal for various
styles of dancing.
The New York Music Pool list is supplied by Jackie McCloy at
NYMusicPool@aol.com
For the week of January 15th
1) Stay In Love by Mariah Carey
2) Always
by Kristine Elezaj
3) Out Of My Mind by Lasgo
4) I Ran (So Far Away) by Darud
5) I Hate This Part by The
Pussycat Dolls
6) Human (Remixes) by The Killers
7) Chemistry by Velvet
8) Broken Pieces by Jennifer
Carbonell
9) Faded by Cascada
10) Imagination by Jes
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Letters to the Editor (our goal is to post readers letters twice a month,
unfortunately due to space limitations we can not publish them all)
Hey Ron, just wanted to thank you for all your wonderful support
throughout the year. Your write ups for our events have been just
wonderful. I also wanted to give you a Hear! Hear! for the
Letter from the Editor about the state of the economy and being there
for dance friends.. That was so well put. Our dance friends are so
important to us not just as dancers but people we share so much with.
Let's hope we all come through this with our dance communities
intact!
Best to you in 2009.
Sheila
....................
Hi Ron
I like to say that Lisa and I went out last night to see an amazing
show at N.Y.U.skirball center the name of the show was called
Tango,Historias Breves. The Star of the show is Guillermina Quiroga.
Ron I'm not sure if know this dancer . I've seen
her dance Hustle with her at the old Dancesport and I believe
she worked with Paul Pelicorro. Well needless to say this
dancer performs a Tango like no other in the world she has a style that
is mixed with classical ballet and theater arts, the women
moves like a panther on the dance floor and in and out of lifts with
the finest grace of a prima ballerina. Ron It was a pleasure for Lisa
and myself in celebration of Lisa Birthday and then after the show went
out to dinner to this restaurant called Genes 73 west 11th
street N.Y.C. with friends and members of Caribbean Soul Salsa dancers
David & Laura. Dinner was the best and the cake was to
die for. If you have the time checkout http://www.skillballcenter.nyu.edu You
can also type in Guillermina Quiroga in Youtube maybe your
recognize this dancer.
Hope to hear from you soon
Leonardo Medina Jr. aka Leo
....................
Dear Ron
I wanted to comment on your last edition of DanceTalk and the overview
of 2008. I appriecate the time you and your staff put into this
informative newsletter. I wanted you to know that here in
Fishkill NY we all love your newsletter. I read DanceTalk every week
but must have had a brain freeze because I dint' know that Nan Bohrah
had passed away. What a shock. She was not only a wonderful dancer but
a true giver. I recall back at Hustle USA in NYC, the strap on my dance
shoe snapped. I didn't know Nan personally but she offered for me to
wear a pair of her dance shoes. I told her I couldn't but she
insisted. From that day on I admired her as a caring
person. She will be missed.
Thank you,
Peggy Lisch
....................
Hi Ron,
As someone who just rec'd your email and just rec'd word that our
office is closing in one week, this is both a comfortable thought and a
mute point at the same time. With no income, you tend to stop all
activity that costs money outside the basic needs.
Although dancing is my passion, I'm not in the mood for
it. Maybe there's a network out there to help link people up
with any temporary jobs, at least.
If you have suggestions, please through them out there.
Thanks,
Lisa
....................
Hey Rowen,
I have been working 3rd shift at work for the last 2 seasons. As of Jan
5 of this year I am back to a normal schedule. As you can
imagine going into work at 10PM can just about ruin anyone's social
life. Other then on weekends I dont' get to dancer or
frequent the regular Tuesday night socials. But here
is what I experienced after my short absence. I don't see anyone under
the age of 40 years old. I felt like I was at a bingo night. The disc
jockey was very good and a good dancer as well. Don't take this wrong
because I am 49 years old but the dancers there could have
nothing on the folks at my mothers nursing home in Bal Harbour. It
seems clear more then ever that the disco era is on the
verge of extinction - I'm happy to be back working a
morning shift at - but wonder how much longer the clubs will keep us
around? I'm sure I'm not the only one concerned.
Jim McGraph
Happy birthday
wishes to Lisa Fiorito, Mike Carillo, Debbie Lynn,
Wingo Hom and Marge Nezin
Sadly we report the passing of Pedro Aguilar , AKA Cuban
Pete. A true giant in the dance world. He leaves a major void
in the Latin dance community that for years
he tirelessly helped to develop. See more below.
Our heart felt condolences go out to dance friend Pat
McDonnell and her family. This past week her
mother passed away. Please keep her in your thoughts and
prayers.
RIP Fayard Nicolas (the Nicolas Brothers) passed
away in 2006. He was born 10/20/14 in Philly. Considered to be
one the best tap dancers of all time, from his performance on
Broadway to the silver screen in Hollywood, along with his brother they
were invincible.
Have you booked your room for Mad Jam 2009 yet?
Over 1,400 dancers came out last year for the biggest non stop dance
weekend in the mid Atlantic. March 5 - 8 in Virginia featuring
Swing, Hustle, Hand dancing with an emphasis on FUN. For all the
details visit http://www.atlanticdancejam.com/
The USA team leads the way in the semi finals on Nigel Lythgoe's, "the
Superstars of Dance". Tune in on Monday
evenings at 8PM (EST) for two hours of dance action on the NBC
network.
Get ready for the amateur dance contest for $1000. in cash prizes being
held at the Winner's Circle. Competitors
can chose from Salsa, Cha, Hustle, Tango, Swing etc.. Audience
participation, as well as Judges, will determine the
finalists. A $25 registration fee is to be paid by January
31st. No late entries. Tentative date for contest is
in February. No Professionals
competitors. You may register at the Winner's Circle, with
Mary. Any questions, please call Mary, (516)785-8250...E-mail,
Mary@Lidance.com.
High Five to Derrick Allan, last
weekend, he taught at the Hudson Valley Resort in
Hudson Valley, NY for the NYS Theater Education
Association Conference. High school students from all over NY attend a
weekend of workshops to educate them on performing. Derrick was so well
received last year they invited him back. There were approximately 700
attendees with at Derrick's workshops packed with about 60 kids
each. The dance workshops normally handle about 15 to 20
kids.
Photo's from Burton's birthday celebration at the Palladium
Night club in Florida, http://tinyurl.com/6w3nh7
Get ready Long Island, Classic Friday nights returns to
the dance club Zachary's.
Featuring the classics from the 70's, 80s right up to
contemporary music. Friday nights are back.
Randy Jackson's America's Best Dance Crew's returns
for it's third season to MTV television on Thursday
nights.
Make it a great week, Ron
-
Spotlight - Marie Izzo
The motion picture, "Saturday Night Fever" resonated
her passion for dance. From that day
forward, she was inspired right down to her inner
core. She had found her calling in life which
drove her to conquer the hustle and to share
her passion to teach others. Marie Izzo was a natural.
At an early age, she began to explore various dances
including the merengue and salsa. Growing up
in Franklin Square, Long Island, without any formal
dance training, she was anxious to learn all the
dances but gravitated towards the new dance
craze on the horizon. Once John Travolta
hustled his stuff, she was sold. Marie was in a dance
frenzy and launched her new career when she signed up
in a teachers training program, hosted by Henry
Dior's Dale Dance Studio's located on long
Island. Her first instructor, Dominick Longo was a popular out
going dancer. Dominick brought lots of talent to the table. The
chemistry between Marie and Dominick quickly took hold and
fermented into an exciting dance partnership. "He was such a
fun partner and made friends every where he went. He was
constantly booking shows for us," explains Marie. The hustle explosion
was captivating and Marie had a front row seat. The excitement
of dancing fueled her heart and soul and she hasn't stopped
exploring and teaching dance since. She worked with
an extraordinary group of teachers at Dales,
including: Eddie Paterson, Maria Gomez, Eddie Simon,
Diane Nardone, Alfonso Triggiani, Lydia Lee Aiello, and Jimmy
Garcia. Coincidentally, her roommates happen to
equally be gifted dancers as well: Gail Bloom and
Suzanne Lambro. "We were known as ‘the girls’, and we went
everywhere together", shares Marie. Her other close
dance associates included, Donna Shelley, her sister
(Marta Hogan), Carl Charles, David Williams and Jose
Solano. Together, this band of dancers, would frequent many
nights clubs through out NY including their
favorites: Penrods/Zachary’s, Winners’ Circle, Uncle Sam’s,
Feathers, Rumors, DeCameron’s, 231, Channel 80 and Attitudes. Their
clubbing circuit would also put them in contact with the “The
Long Island crew”, which consisted of Bobbi Petri, Lori
Brizzi, James Stanford, Keith Merriweather, Chuck Fetta, J.O. (John
Ort), Jimmy Garcia, Derrick Allen, Ron Rochester, Robin Amante
and Rose Capello.
Dancing with Dominick meant doing shows on the fly. One night
when Marie was seconds from heading out for a night of dancing
she received a call from Dominick, " we have a show
to do at Studio 54, get here now". "The club had all the sound
equipment, but we needed to bring someone to emcee for us", explains
Marie. "I called my sister, Marta, and we rushed into the
city. He was waiting for us at the door and he shoved Marta
into the DJ booth, whisked me onto the dance floor, and our song
began. Whew! That’s what it was like being partners with
Dominic Longo."
The genie was now out of the bottle and moving in the fast
lane. While attending, a dance competition
she met the popular duo of Jeff & Donna Shelley. They
were very taken by her dance skills and instantaneously
offered her an opportunity at their New York Hustle Dance
Studio in Flushing, Queens. For the next six years, Marie
would perfect her ballroom and Latin skills. She would develop many
students and compete in the Pro/am divisions. Some of the dancer
students she engaged in her training
included Armando Berrios, Joe Ramaglia, Wally Montalvo and
John Rocchio, all from NY hustle studio which later
became NY Dance Center. Marie would continue to
compete outside of the studio world and do shows and
simultaneously partnered with George "White
Lightning" Velazquez and then with Long Island bad boy, Carl
Charles. "I am also among the few people who made it to the
finals at Zachary’s, dancing with another girl", explains Marie.
The annual contest is one of the premier events on
the Island. Marie and close friend Lisa Stecket, put together
a high energy jazz routine to Janet Jackson's hit song
"Control". It received rave reviews. Marie couldn't get
enough of dance or the satisfaction it brought her. With an
entrepreneurial spirit she formed her own
dance company called “All the Right Moves”. "In
April, 1990, my sister, Marta, who was the audio mixer on The Phil
Donahue Show, got us an audition on the episode entitled “Lambada – The
Forbidden Dance”, explains Marie. "Phil Donahue decided at the
last minute that he wanted to have a contrast to all the craziness of
the Lambada dancers, and hired us to perform a dance
retrospective". With less then 24 hours to prepare
for their national television debut, she had to choreograph a
performance representing each dance era, five in
all, select the music along with narration (courtesy of good
friend Chuck Fetta) pick costumes, and rehearse
for the deadline. "I danced with George Velazquez and
Gail Bloom partnered with Chuck Fetta. We worked through the
night… sleep was not an option…and very early the next the morning a
limo came to pick us up. By that afternoon we were
on. We performed a medley of dances from each era: the 40’s
(fox trot), 50’s (swing), 60’s (twist), 70’s (hustle), and the 80’s
(dirty dancing). Of course, I enjoyed our foursome hustle
the most, which turned out perfect. It was awesome;
and to date, one of my favorite dance experiences ever" shares
Marie.
Then the talented, oh so talented Marie would experience a set back as
the exhilaration would come to a screeching halt.
Marie suffered a terrible knee injury
which forced her to stop dancing for nearly two
years. This challenge crystallized her determination. She
gallantly returned and began working at "Dance Obsession" with
Barnie & Debbie Aquilino, which became her new home
until 1998 when it was time to leave. Marie was ready to dance in a new
direction, which was in the Carolina's. First North then ultimately
South where she opened her own dance
studio appropriately named, "All the Right Moves" located in
Fort Mill , South Carolina. http://www.rightmovesdancestudio.com
"In 2005 Carl Charles came to North Carolina to visit me and we decided
to put something together to perform", shares Marie. "Because they have
never seen a hustle done on that level before, the audience roared when
we took our bow. We were asked to perform our hustle at a
master’s show that same weekend along side the legendary theatre arts
performers David Howland & Vivienne Ramsey.
We were awe-struck" explains Marie. They couldon't believe
they were on the same stage as David & Vivienne. "See
where hustle can get you", shares Marie. For the past four
years she has been a dance Professor at Winthrop University,
teaching two ballroom/Latin courses per semester.
"It is an extremely popular course and very difficult to get a spot in
the class" explains Marie. This is one of
her most gratifying jobs that she truly embraces. She
makes the class very rewarding supporting the students
with encouragement, fine etiquette (both on and off the dance
floor), some life lessons, spiritual guidance - all
with a twist of fun included. Marie created
the curriculum, which consists of the seven major dances with
five steps in each dance, including a final
exam with a prerequisite of performing a formal
dance. "The students have to dress in formal attire, some
students wearing tuxedos and top hats" explains a proud
Marie. She doesn't miss a beat and demonstrates the
responsibilities of the men and how they should approach their
partner for a dance, escort them onto
the floor, thank them at the end of the dance and
then escort them off the floor. "Every semester I’m
amazed at how the guys’ chests broaden as they escort the lovely ladies
with beautiful smiles on their faces, on and off the dance floor", she
shares. She instructs them on how a lady should be
treated and encourages the ladies to expect nothing less from
a gentleman. Alumni have expressed their gratitude and
the impact her course has had on their lives, leaving
fond memories of their college days. "They’ll
remember it as their own ‘good old days’, and they’ll look back on it
the same way I look back on my days dancing the night away on Long
Island", shares Marie. "It’s just dance, but we all know it’s
so much more". Marie has taken her craft and
shares it with young students and adults through out various
states. The admiration she receives from her college
students and those from her studio depict the love Marie has
for her art. She has done for hustle what
Rita's had accomplished for the water ice, its simply mouth
watering. She continues to enjoy every teaching moment and was
able to make her childhood hobby an outreaching career for
herself for over 30 years
-
Pedro
“Cuban Pete” Aguilar 6/14/27 - 1/13/09
It is with great sadness that the dance world mourns the loss
of Pedro “Cuban Pete” Aguilar.
Barbara Craddock, his dance partner, shares his incredible
history and all the gifts he bestowed on
the dance world.
RIP
Cuban Pete grew up in New York’s El Barrio and made his mark in the
Latin dance world at the dawn of the Mambo craze, in New York’s famous
Palladium Ballroom, and from there vaulted to international prominence.
Known as the “King of the Latin Beat,” “Mr. Mambo,” and the “Prince of
the Palladium,” he invented scores of dance movements and hand
embellishments now viewed as standards of Latin dance. He
served as a catalyst for social change in the entertainment and social
arenas by being the first “man with a tan” to dance with a white woman
onstage; in 1951 he danced with Millie Donay at the Palladium,
ushering in one of the first instances of integration on the dance
floor. In his multi-decade career, he performed in movies,
television, stage, and danced for American Presidents, heads of state
and dignitaries, as well as serve as choreographer and consultant for
the film, “Mambo Kings.” He adjudicated at many prestigious dance
events worldwide, and was a skilled lecturer on the history of Latin
dance and music.
With Barbara Craddock, he helped make history in the preservation of
“clave,” by serving as choreographic consultant and instructor for
Miami City Ballet’s unprecedented work, “Mambo No. 2 a.m.,” and was
choreographer for “Latin Magic,” an original mambo ballet for the
University of the Arts School of Dance in Philadelphia. The
recipient of numerous awards for his contributions to Latin dance, he
was referred to as “the greatest mambo dancer ever” by LIFE Magazine,
Tito Puente and George Goldner of TICO Records. He is archived in the
Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC and RAICES Latin Music Museum
in New York.
He is survived by his children, daughters Denise Gerard and Petrina
Aguilar, son Sean Peter Aguilar, granddaughter Gina Gerard, grandson
Noah Aguilar, sisters Socorra Blackman, Chickie Masdeu, Yvette Masdeu,
many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dance partner, Barbara Craddock. He
is predeceased by his brothers Tony Aguilar and Pedro Aguilar, Jr., and
his mother, Nellie Trujillo Masdeu.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Boys
Harbor Inc. - Harbor Conservatory for the
Performing One East 104th Street, New York,
NY 10029-4495 Attn: Nina Olson In
Memoriam: Pedro “Cuban Pete” Aguilar. Cuban Pete is now
dancing “en clave” with the angels.
-
Letter from the Editor
As we enter 2009, we will see and experience many changes. A new
president, with new ideas but a stalled economy. Statistically
speaking, it is unfortunate that one out of every 10
dancers will be unemployed over the next few months. I don't
mean to be perceived as a dooms - dayer, but simply a
realist. Although we may not be able to solve the problem, one can
handle it better understanding the issues and knowledge of
how it impacts all of us. We are all going through this.
We have many dancers, from the community , that have
been laid off or have experienced a reduction in
their work hours. Some employers have shut
down facilities while other friends are worried, as
they anticipate a threatened level of job security at
work. Lost wages not only creates
the burden of paying bills,
mortgage and providing food on the table but more
importantly .... undesirable stress. Stress
can lead to greater health complications and stages
of depression. Ultimately, some may face a lack of interest in
everyday affairs, family and their work.
We can all help make a difference. Keep an eye on your dance
friends. Keep them active. Dealing with problems is more manageable
understanding those concerns up front. Be
there for them.
During economic recessions, it is documented that those
folks that engage in entertainment can
manage their stress better. To overcome stress folks should go out more
and enjoy a movie, activities and to dance.
Encourage your friends to come out. Dancing is an escape from the rat
race. A chance to feel good and leave any negative anxiety
behind. Reinforce their value in the dance community and that
life is not limited to just your career or job. Be
proactive. Be there as a friend to show concern
and sympathy. Don't let your friends fall into a
downward spiral....catch them before they fall. Keep them up beat. Keep
them dancing.
Happy birthday wishes to Irena Griffin,
Eileen Kellerman, Judy Van Dyke, Angela Risser, Carmen Mendez, Estelle
Hedaya, Sharon Frio, Chuck
Fetta, Joan Hancock, Ralph Ferro, Alex Jack, Benji
Schwimmer, Sheril Shue and Domingo Cruz.
A member of the British brother band the BeeGees, Maurice
Gibb passed away six years ago. A quiet member of the group
he helped launch the sound track for one of the highest
grossing records of all time, Saturday Night Fever.
Dancers don't only move their feet but they move our hearts.
Mikalena Nau, was special. She would have celebrated her 40th
birthday this week. She disappeared almost 3 years ago.
Jason Colcino returns to New Jersey this
coming Saturday night, January 17th, at the Haddonfield School
of Dance, for two great workshops and dance
social. See all the details below.
Cheers to Bobby O as he has joined the teaching
staff at Dance America Dance Studio in Tampa Florida. For the schedule
please visit http://www.danceamerica.net/id15.html
New photos images from Mary Keegan &
Carole Phelps and Gail's birthday
celebration at Michael's Cafe, courtesy of Fred Fedak. http://whatsnew.fredf.fotki.com/
The Motion picture "Move" is scheduled for release
later this year. A documentary on dance it has a
cast of dance All - Stars, including Ben
Vereen, Cris Judd, Shane Sparks, Chita
Rivera, Jamie King, Mandy Moore, Brian Freedman and Mia
Michael's.
Next week, DanceTalk points the
spotlight on a native New Yorker that relocated to the South
to open her own dance studio, to help spread the love of
dance. Stay tuned.
Make it a great week, Ron
Jason is coming Back
They say, don't judge a book by it's cover, but in
this case, Jason Colacino is the real deal. From his good looks to
mesmerizing dance skills, Jason is the complete package. Back
by popular demand, Jason returns to rock the Delaware Valley. His last
visit, this past November, was so explosive that they had to
bring him back for a second shot. Come join Rob and
Sheila’s on Saturday, January 17th for an incredible evening
of workshops and dancing. Whether he is teaching, competing
or just social dancing, Jason is quite extraordinary.
He has made a name for himself the old fashion way......he
earned it. Plan to be at the Haddonfield School of Dance as "Swing"
takes over. Jason will be teaching two workshops.
As a staff member at many of the Swing dance
events, Jason has been invited to Japan to teach as well. His
unique style combines his jazz and ballet training implemented
into Swing. Jason will floor you with his skills. His
style is soooooo cool, making him technically one of the most exciting
dancers anywhere…and boy can he spin, one leg pirouettes and all. He
has partnered with some of the most talented ladies in West Coast
Swing, including Katie Boyle and Mary Ann Nunez. He
is a former three time world Cabaret champion, US Open Swing Champion
as well as holding many other titles. Jason, being multi-talented, has
performed on stage and in many shows including, “Swing”, “Evita” and “A
Broadway Tribute”. He also appeared, last year in the Disney Motion
picture, “Enchanted”. This should be a night you don't want to
miss. Mark it down for this Saturday night, January 17th
at the Haddonfield School of Dance. It is located
at 413 Crystal Lake Avenue in Haddonfield,
New Jersey. Please visit http://www.delvalshag.org.
for all the information. For additional info write
to Sheila at bpurkey@yahoo.com or call 609-519-0078.
Letters to the Editor (our goal is to post readers letters twice a month,
unfortunately due to space limitations we can not publish them all)
im saddened to hear about arte and elena passing. i knew them both in
and out of the dance floor. for over 30 years. when we started dancing
i would take the train to the city from queens and arte would make sure
to take me home and we sat in front of my house for hours just
talking. i miss him so much. thank god i love taking pictures
so i have lots of memories,ive always kept in touch with elena she
would bring the kids to eat at my job every sunday. just to
see me, and visit my home. my condolences to scott and the
girls that i know so well.
they will be missed : love MIRIAM LATINHUSTLE 1
..................................
Hi Ron,
I'd like to put out a challenge to all the hustle DJ's out there.
They all spin great hustle tunes. I'd like to
challenge them to see who can come up with the best salsa
music. Many of the hustle dancers also dance salsa on a regular basis
at salsa clubs. The music is great and are used to
dancing to music with a lot of flavor. That great
salsa flavor not something that we get when at a
hustle social. Putting a salsa beat to 'Hey Jude' or
playing 'Volare' isn't what salsa dancers are looking
for. They may dance to it because they know they may only
have two salsa dances for the entire evening and dancing to 'something'
is better than not dancing at all. I'd like to give kudos to
Franklin Alaya for playing great salsa all the time. Maybe he
wouldn't mind sharing some of his favorites with the other
DJ's?
I only put out this challenge to the DJ's in an effort to make a great
party even better!!
Thx,
L.J.
..................................
It is difficult for me to express how touched and honored I am that so
many of you voted for me in DanceTalk's annual Readers Choice Award as
Person of the Year. I was surprised last year and this year you have
chosen to honor me again. I must admit I do not understand
why I am worthy of such an award so I asked some friends for their
opinion. One person said it was because of my contributions
both to keeping the hustle alive as well as my support of important
causes. Another person told me that I am like the character George in
the movie 'It's a Wonderful Life' who doesn't see or appreciate the
value of his contributions to his community, I am glad you appreciate
my contributions. I know that all of the people who are
fortunate enough to have made their profession in the business of
dance, whether it is writing the music, DJing, teaching,
choreographing, competing, entertaining, running dance
studios or running dance parties/events, are often thanked
for the happiness they give to the people whose lives they have
touched. We do this out of a passion for music and dancing and for a
love of people. It really has been a privilege. None if this would be
possible without all of the aforementioned people, the students and the
people who come and dance so thank you to all of you who have given me
such a rewarding and fulfilling way to make the donuts. I
truly LOVE the dance hustle and I will do whatever I can to see it
continue through the years.
Because of your contributions at the NY Hustle Congress in the last 4
years, we have given to members of our dance community who were
affected by Hurricane Katrina, Multiple Sclerosis, Children with Cancer
and First Responders of 9 / 11. I thank everyone who has ever worked on
these events through the years, especially my talented sister Bobbi
Petri who is helping behind the scenes more than you know and for her
wisdom, strength and support in all my endeavors. Heartfelt thanks to
so many of my friends that have worked very hard on at least one of the
events and did not ask for anything but the success of the event. I
apologize if I have forgotten any of them but deepest gratitude to
Silvia Piccininni, Doug Hagwood, Bonnie Herbert, Donna DeSimone,
Anthony Lee, Derrick Allen, Donna Portelli, Donna Boyle, Ron Bess,
Eddie Simon, Benjamin Soencksen, Roula Gianapoulu, Steven Orlikoff,
Jeff Sandler, Vinny Munno and Franklin Ayala. I also thank
those who have sponsored me in the Dance Parade and in the walks for
Breast Cancer, Aids and Alzheimer. It is wonderful that we can come
together as a dance community to make a contribution in the
world. Big thanks to Ron Bess who spends so much of his time
creating this fabulous newsletter that is informative about so many
things related to dance and lets us know the places to go dancing all
over the country. Thanks also to Stacy who puts it all together! Thanks
for all the time and effort that goes these awards (all that counting)
and weekly newsletters that people may express themselves and feel
appreciated!
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Diane Nardone for
honoring me with the Christopher M. Nardone Award at her World Hustle
Dance Championship last year and for the warm reception of those who
were present. Once again I was surprised and whenever I read the words
on the plaque, I am deeply touched and cherish it. Many thanks
to all who attended my first dance cruise and the terrific staff who
made it a success which were DJs Nelson Roman and Franklin Ayala, Bobbi
Petri, Doug Hagwood, Jose Solano, Bruce Bryant and LoriAnn Greenhouse
and Kelvin Roche. It was a blast and we are working on dates to do that
again this year for sure. Thanks to IL Campanello, the Hilton
NY, the 92nd Street Y and Club 412 for providing great places to dance
in NYC. Saving the best for last, thanks to this year's DJs
that have worked with me especially hustle DJs Nelson Roman, Johnny O,
Bobby Morales and Herb Martin, salsa DJs Franklin Ayala, Jeff Stennett
& Henry Knowles, WCS DJs Wes Carajat and Dmitri, ballroom DJs
Peter, Noah and Mark and all the DJs throughout the last 7 1/2
years. These fabulous DJs make it all happen!
These awards makes me want to quote the movie 'As Good As It
Gets' when Jack Nicholson says "You make me want to be a better person"
(well he says man but I had to change that part). Those of you
who know me well, know that I LOVE animals, especially dogs. I have
started with efforts to foster, adopt, donate money and time
transporting rescues and plan on devoting as much free time in 2009 in
continued efforts to help as many animals in need as possible. I will
be creating a blog next month and hope that there are many of you
animal lovers out there that can offer assistance as well. I
also plan on my continued efforts to keep you dancing with my events
and parties. I begin with a new dance party on Long Island this Friday
and may be branching out to other communities in the near future. I
hope to see you all on the dance floor soon!
Thank you again!
lori
..................................
i want to thank everybody that tuned into my guest dj appearance on
radio.rawcast.com. this past wednesday 1/7. it was rawcast's best tuned
in show ever with record numbers of listeners, visitors to the chat
room
and length of log in per listener!! the show is now available for
download @ http://www.rawcast.podomatic.com
scroll down to "the wednesday remedy" show. it is broken down into 3
sets, so please help yourself to over 3 hours of soulful house music,
great classics and a couple of surprises, mixed by me and rawcast
program director markus rice!! feel free to log into radio.rawcast.com
anytime as they are streaming great music 24/7 with a great lineup
taleneted dj's!! speaking of talented dj's (wink) i will soon be
hosting my own weekly show(s) in the next few days!! one show will be
dedicated to nothing but the best dance classics ever, full of
surprises, rare dusty favorites and special guest dj collaborations!!
stay tuned for the inaugural launch date and time slot!! what a great
way to start the new year!!
see you soon on the www!!!
peace
BOBBY MORALES
..................................
Hi Ron,
Great write up about the change in music and more dance stuff - less
rap crap.
I enjoy the music of the young singers like Neyo and Chris Brown. The
quality is good, nice lyrics and most important they have real talent.
They show that a good voice can lead to good and better things. Their
songs share personal messages, postive ideas not female abuse and
drugs. Its nice that they are getting more recognition. I appreciate
that you and your newsletter keeps these topics out there. I hope these
artists can create that resurgence in dancing for the new generation of
youth.
Thank you,
Sierria Taylor
..................................
Dear Ron
Phil Dorroll from http://www.danceamerica.net
and Bobby Caudill said there was a dance event in ORLANDO, with invited
guest TINA PRICE. I replied Oh really!!She is good friends with DIANE
NARDONE ,and knows a whole bunch of people that I know.Wow, she could
dance up a storm!!!II met her at HUSTLE USA years ago and at the WORLD
HUSTLE DANCE CHAMPIONSHIP in NEW JERSEY. Tina Price is from OHIO, she
has been involved in the HUSTLE with Fred for many, many years. When I
used to teach at SWING CITY in Tampa Lee Holton use to rave about her
credentials and great teaching skills. Tina participated and won many
competitions. I arrived at NEW YORK, NEW YORK IN CLEARWATER this last
friday night and there was a nice crowd, DJ FRANKY
played ''CAN'T GET ENOUGH'' BARRY WHITE When I tell you you we LIT IT
UP Just what you could imagine people cleared the floor, all eyes
looking, people applauding, afterwards I had a whole lot of new
friends, people bee-lining for introductions. My old students amazed on
how much better I got, When I tell you the ruccous she created....DJ
FRANKY now understood why I was bothering him for disco classics. After
a parade of dancers, wanna be dancers, potential students, admirers,
people wanting to give complements. I had the opportunity to
dance with her again. Everytime a friend of mine showed up they heard
about the HUSTLE DISPLAY asked me to dance with her again I will tell
you THE PRICE WAS RIGHT Then off to a night club near the beach INDIAN
ROCKS BEACH called SASSY'-S It was a nice niteclub, romantic
atmosphere like a supper clubs, dark, candle lights, mirrors. There was
a guy performing with a microphone, drum machine, guitar, an electric
piano, a kareoke machine and a computer and he was a solo guy with
sunglasses performing up to date music WOWOWOWOWOW. he was super. I
said to John and Anna there is not enough room here and this will be a
short visit. John said the band is excellent. They are called BUSSTOP.
The solo artist introduces BUS STOP. Excellent music!! This was a band
an a half. I went to the band and said I have a world champion dancer
from OHIO here tonight and she is about to go back to ten degree
weather could you play SINGASONG by Earth Wind and FIRE He did it
immediately and once again we TORE IT UP. Some attractive girl
approached TINA and thought we were dancing together for years..... The
band said LADIES and GENTLEMAN the dancers. Tina did west coast swing,
two-step, nite club, east coast swing THE HUSTLE and hit SASSY'S with
impact.
What I haven't been able to do in the three years that I have been to
TAMPA, TINA PRICE did in one night and that is PRICELESS and
now we are PRICE LESS.
See you on the hardwood,
Bobby O
Happy Birthday
wishes to Madeline Ossias, Fran Richman,
Mimi Litz, Nick Bellivan, Tony Sevarin
and DJ Marc Fisher.
Three years ago the incomparable Lou Rawls passed away. He
left us with a life time of wonderful music. Mr. Rawls was
also a Veteran, from the 82nd Airborne divisions at Ft.
Bragg, NC.
Two of the big guns on "Dancing
With The Stars" became engaged on New Year's
Eve. Maksim Chmerkovskiy popped the question
to Karina Smirnoff while in Las Vegas. Karina previously dated
Mario Lopez, but has been dating Maksim for the past 6 months.
Get well wishes to dance champion Mark
James. He has been suffering severe back pains
but is on the way back to a full recovery..... under the careful
eye of Karen
Lupo. We look forward to seeing him dance,
compete and perform soon.
The first season premier of the "Superstars of Dance" started this
week on NBC television. Sundays (8PM) and Mondays
(8PM), where 16 different countries compete in solo, duet and group
dance competitions. The show is hosted by Michael Flatley, who is best
know for "Lord of the
Dance."
The Kennedy Center honored dance legend Twyla Tharp.
She is very tiny, gray-haired and nearing her seventh decade,
but can still bang out push-ups on the bare
floor of her Upper West Side apartment. Her dancing and choreography
still steals your breath away....with its timeless magic.
Kevin Tancharoen is the director of the new motion picture, remake, of
"Fame", coming in September 09. With an extensive
background directing dancers ( "The Pussycat Dolls Presents"
, "Dancelife" "the JammX Kids" and "Britney
Spears Live from Miami", he is bringing back Debbie Allen to
play the principal.
New images from Pat Stewart's birthday
celebration held at Michael's Cafe can be seen, courtesy of Fred,
at: http://whatsnew.fredf.fotki.com/
The Top Ten singles downloaded
and purchased in 2008
1 Flo Rida - Low
2 Alicia Keys - No One
3 Leona Lewis - Bleeding Love
4 One Republic - Apologize
5 Sara Bareliles - Love Song
6 Chris Brown - With You
7 Usher - Love In This Club
8 Jordin Sparks - No Air
9 Lil Wayne - Lollipop
10 Ray J - Sexy Can I
DanceTalk wishes to thank all of its readers, sponsors, dance pros,
DJs, organizers, performers and friends, for all their
support. I appreciate all the hard work and assistance during
2008 from my tireless staff, Stacy and
Christine and to our associates, Mark James, Robin
Amante, Asia Bautista, Robert Rothman, Guy Thomas, Diane
Weinberg and the "Hustle Hall Of Fame" panel.
Special thanks to my loving family Wendy, Lauren and Brandon.
Wishing everyone only the best in 2009. Make it a great year
for dance.
Make it a great week,
Ron
A recap of the year in dance
Immortals
It was a sad year as we said good bye to many dance friends.
They will forever live on in our hearts.
Gladys Torres, Nan Bohrah, Arte Phillips, Jim DeFato, Elena
Nurse
Cyd Charisse
passed away, age 86, a dancers dream, Fred Astaire called her
"beautiful dynamite." She was incredible whether dancing with Gene
Kelly in "Singing in the Rain" or with Fred in "Bandwagon."
Music legend and actor Isaac
Hayes passed a way. A Grammy and Oscar
winner he gave us "SHAFT" and the classic "Pursuit of the Pimpmobile."
Many new dance shows
popped up on the tube in 2008, showing the power of dance.
The Premier of "Dance War" Bruno Vs Carrie Ann and MTV has had great
success with their dance contribution - "Dance Crews."
Although the show is about 15 years to late, since the hay day
of hip hop crews, it makes for entertaining TV.
Mad Jam 2008 was 1,400 strong. Jordan Frisbee and Tatiana
Mollman rocked the house taking first place honors. Once again, the
Virginia weekend was non stop action as host Dave Moldover brought
together one of the biggest dance gatherings featuring hustle,
swing and hand dancing.
The International Hustle and Salsa Championships took place in Miami
for its 9th season. Dance icon Lisa Nunziella
received the Olgi & Margo award. A special award was given
to co-host, Billy Fajardo as
recognition for his years of service to the dance industry.
Singer/actress/performer Grace Jones turned 60 years old in
2008.
Dancing With The Stars,
returned with huge ratings as the mirror ball
trophy went to gold medal figure skater Christina
Yamaguchi and her professional partner Mark Ballas. They were the clear
cut victors in the winter season. Wonderful, difficult
choreography with excellent execution.
Dance Champion and instructor, Erik Novoa became engaged to
fellow dancer Anna Brady, this past year. Erik also rolled
out his own dance event, Swing & Hustle event in Connecticut.
One of the greatest singers of our generation, Donna Summer
released her first album in nearly 17 years. With so many previous
hits, she proved she still has staying power.
Discoamerica was by far one of the best events. It took
place on Independence Day weekend, celebrating their 10 year
anniversary in Philadelphia. Joyce Szili joined Donna Boyle as
organizers. In the Pro Dance Off Wajih & Wendy Dalal
captured first place.
Lots of new music and exciting songs in 2008 from Ne Yo, Rhianna,
Pussycat Dolls, Danity Kane, Chris Brown, Madonna, Britney
Spears, Natasha Beningfield, Christina Aguilera, Jordan
Sparks, New Kids On The Block,
Swing dance champion/DJ John Festa presented his own
dance event, "Hudson Swing Affair," With a
new approach towards a dance weekend, the focus was on creativity and
fun - all weekend
long.
The World Hustle Dance Championships hosted by Diane Nardone honored
dance champion Donna Boyle and inducted her into the Hustle Hall Of
Fame. Ms Lori Brizzi received the Christopher M. Nardone
award. Hazel and Tybaldt Ulrich took first place
in the World Open.
Adagio and theater arts specialists, David Paris and Zoe Kline tied the
knot.
The 4th annual NY Hustle Congress hosted by Lori
Brizzi honored Billy Fajardo with the David Melendez Spiritual
Award. Raul Santiago and Sergia Anderson capture the Professional
crowns over this exciting Labor Day weekend in
Manhattan.
Dancing With The Stars had many ups and downs with its performers
but Brooke Burke along with Derrick Hough danced away with the
Mirror ball trophy in the summer season
finale.
DanceTalk readers voted in the 2008 DanceTalk®
Readers Choice Awards. The winners were,
Favorite DJ - Mark Routzahn AKA
DJ Mark
Favorite Female Dancer - Stephanie Risser
Favorite Male Dancer - John "boots" Merisier
Favorite Dance Couple - Kelvin Roche & Lorianne
Greenhouse (voted 2 years in a row)
Favorite Dance Couple (not hustle) - Jordan Frisbee &
Tatiana Mollmann
Favorite Female Instructor - Diane Nardone (voted 7
years in a row)
Favorite Male Instructor - Roberto Pagan (voted 2 years in a
row)
Most Improved Dancer - Alexandra Cebollero
Favorite All Time Dancer - Arte
Phillips
Derrick Allen (2007) Eddie Vega (2006)
Person of the Year - Lori Brizzi (voted 2 years in
a row)
The 16th Annual Holiday Spectacular was another great gathering of
dancers from many states.
Our star studded panel of judges (Jonathan Laub, Diane Nardone, Wingo
Hom, Stephanie Risser, Brian Gallagher) selected the new King and Queen
of Hustle, George Garcia and Sabrina Paxmann
The Hustle Hall Of Fame inducted Arte Phillips into the Life Time
Achievement Class of 2008
Please visit our Sponsors websites. They support
DanceTalk® and we support them. Please pass the Word.
To be a sponsor write, care of Stacy, to Rowenlb2@aol.com
--- 
Sign Guestbook
View Guestbook
