DanceTalk - The Archives
May 2008
Thank for
Visiting the Archives of Ron's Dance Talk
Ron Bess & daughter
picture courtesy of Eric Novoa
LINKS of INTEREST - for HUSTLE
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From iTunes & Mark James
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Mark James' Dance Zen Site Search
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DanceTalk * 5-26-08
- 
Happy birthday wishes to Steve Tusio,
Magique, Raluca Georgio, Jenae' Rubin and
Jennifer Gessner.
We send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Gary
Drayer. He passed away suddenly this past week. He was and
fellow dancer from the Peppermint dance group. Please keep them in your
prayers.
Congratulations to dance champion Erik Nova &
Anna Brady on their wedding engagement. Erik
& Anna are also competitive partners and took 2nd place in the
Cabaret Division at Mad Jam. They will be hosting the West Coast Swing
& Hustle Dance Event @ Salsa Fest 08 this coming weekend. See
the details below.
Tuesday night, May 27th, The World Salsa Dance Competitions,
shown on ESPN 2, at 9PM EST.
Take a look back to 1976, Donna Summer had a major hit with the song
(written by Barry Manilow), "Could It Be Magic." Original footage was
shot from 2001 Odyssey in Brooklyn New York as the backdrop (the club
used in Saturday Night Fever) as dance Champions Floyd
Chisholm & Nelly Cotto dance - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yu6NS2Sk-MU&feature=related
"Let's Dance" presented by "Summer on The Hudson" June 8th, 15th, 22nd
& 29th from 6:30 - 9:00PM. SoHo Dance
providing free salsa lessons & social dancing by the water with
resident DJ Bobby Morales! Riverside Park South/70th St.
Plaza & The Hudson River, (enter the park @ 68th St. or 72nd
St.) Orientation Class will be held on Thursday, May 29th, 2008 @ 8:30
PM $20 for the 1 hr. Orientation class + 1/2 private lesson to schedule
@ your convenience! http://www.sohodancestudio.com
Hot dance pick of the week, "No Air," the remix by
Jordan Sparks & Chris Brown. This and other new hits are
available on the May Mix by DJ Fancy, only $15. for details send an e
mail to sparda3636@yahoo.com
David Padilla has arranged a bus trip from 26th street in NYC to Discoamerica
July 5th, there are only 54 Seats, Reserve your ticket now at the
discount rate - Contact David at 917 558-7660
WANTED: Dancers, to perform on dance cruises.
Professionally trained dancers are needed to entertain on first class
cruise lines. Visit http://www.mjames.org/applican_auditio.pdf
Michael's Cafe continues to host the Tuesday night hustle party but now
has added resident DJ Michael Gormley to the Sunday
night dance party. Every Sunday night. No cover and free parking on
Street Road in Bensalem Pennsylvania.
The World Hustle Dance Championships has extended
the deadline for the first discounted rate (4-day Explosion &
Gold package) for all letters postmarked by May 29th. For all the
details visit http://www.hustledanceworld.com
The Moshulu in Philly, will host Sunday night Salsa parties,
8PM lesson with Barbara Capaldi, no more "Rock
Lobster", $15 cover, every Sunday till Labor day
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by West Coast
Swing & Hustle event @ Salsa Fest 08 and Louis
Del Prete's Dancing With The Stars. Read all about
these exciting events below.
Make it a great week,
Ron,
Up Close - Dancing with The Stars
If you can't get enough of Dancing With The Stars, now that the season
has ended, its not to late to see two of the hottest dancers on the
planet. Dancing with the Stars invades New York, as two of the most
electrifying dancers come to perform. The gorgeous Karina Smirnoff and
talented Louie Van Amstel. Karina is a five time Latin
Ballroom champion and top competitor on Dancing with the stars almost
grabbing the Mirror Ball trophy with former partner Mario. Known for
her quickness and styling her beautiful dancing is second to known.
Louie is a three time Latin American World Champion and is well know
through out the industry for his creative choreography. You
can experience them both, up close at this special event hosted by
Louis Del Prete on Saturday night, May 31 at the Surburban Temple, 2900
Jerusalem Ave. Wantagh, Long Island. There will be ballroom, Latin,
Hustle and WCS dancing from 8:30PM to 12:30AM. Complimentary coffee,
tea, cake and bagels. A free 30 Min. salsa Lesson will take place at
8:30pm. Door Prizes, $40pp. Due to limited space,
reservations only. Please call now to reserve your seat. Contact Louis
at
(516) 819 - 9016 or e mail: louisdelprete@yahoo.com
for more details visit: http://www.mjames.org/may31_surburban.html
+ Video
West Coast Swing & Hustle Event @ Salsa Fest 08
Looking for 100 smiles a gallon, head to the West Coast Swing &
Hustle event at Salsa Fest 08. It all takes place May 30 &
31st. Its only a drive away in beautiful Stamford, Connecticut - this
coming weekend for a new type of dance weekend. Dance Champion Erik
Novoa brings together the best of West Coast Swing and Hustle...under
one roof. There are no competitions. Thats right...only workshops and
social dancing all weekend long. Two separate rooms for your west coast
swing dancing and the other for hustle maniacs. With a DJ staff second
to none your dance non stop. But don't delay, book your room now.
Go to http://www.swingshoes.net/WCS-Hustle-Salsa-Fest08.html. Your
dance staff includes: West Coast Swing Pros, Bill Cameron, Jennifer
Lyons, Hazel & Tybaldt Ulrich, Ligaya Wakefield, Jim Guglielmo,
Nora Venne and for Hustle...get ready for Arte Phillips, Silvana
Gallagher, Lori Brizzi, Lisa Paternoster and Hazel & Tybaldt.
To keep the music fresh and hot the turntables will be spinning with
Steve Neeren, Ken Merck, Bobby Morales and John Festa. Friday is all
about introducing new beginners to the wonderful world of
dance. We'll have 2 hour beginner cycles simultaneously
occurring for both WCS and Hustle. Friday also provides an
opportunity for more skilled dancers to work on their
basics. This will be followed by a Professional/Instructor
Demonstration - to show you what these amazing instructors can do if we
just let them play. Then, the night is yours with
the two of the best DJs of their fields: John Festa (WCS Room) and
Bobby Morales (Hustle Room). Both DJs are legends. Saturday is
when the beginners & intermediates improve their game with
morning & afternoon workshops. We even have ballroom
workshops to keep things friendly with our "brother/sister"
communities. Then we have the Private Lesson Jack &
Jill where at least 30 randomly-selected people will have a chance to
have a 15 minute FREE private lesson with our Professional Staff (this
is part of the workshop package). The night will begin with a
professional show with companies from NYC and CT and will climax with a
WCS & Hustle Party in one room. The workshops are geared for
all levels. Don't be left out. The Hilton Stamford Hotel is
located at First Stamford Place, Stamford, CT 06902
For your discounted room rate use the Promo Code: CT Salsa
Fest. The room rate is only $105 per night. You can book on line or
call 203-967-2222 The price is only $120 for the WCS/Hustle
(workshops included) package if purchased online, and $140 at the
door. Day passes (with and without workshops) start at $30
and are also available on the web site. http://www.swingshoes.net/WCS-Hustle-Salsa-Fest08.html
DJs Picks
The perfect song can inspire great accomplishments. Amazing dance
routines are crowned when the choreography mirrors
the vision with the driving music. Could you imagine the
haunting film "Jaws" without the John Williams soundtrack. We
asked some of our favorite DJs to share with us their favorite song(s)
that: Influenced their career, created an eye opening experience,
became their signature song or, that one tune, that brings back a
special time that is captured forever in that song?
Enjoy,
Bobby Gerald
It was simple, The Love of the music. Being a frustrated musician, I
needed an outlet second to playing an instrument, circa 1973 took me to
the mecca (discos in NY & Queens), The originality of the top
DJ's mixing and remix a simple 3 minute tune into an edited and
expanded hi-hats abound awesome floor packer it..was all I needed to
hear. Something like "My Sweet Summer Suite"..Yea, thats the ticket.
DJ Frank Pellici
"I Don't Want To Change You" by The Crown
Heights Affair
DJ Linda
Through each era from the 1940's until today there are dozens of
favorites that hit my heart. However, my client is the one who decides
what my favorite is that night. It is their party and I play what their
guests what to hear not what I like. However, I get
into the event and do love the music that I play. Loving the music is
only a small part of being a good DJ. Just like any entertainer the
guest have to love it and it needs to be for them. That is what sets me
apart from the rest.
The song I play most of the time and almost at every show??? Guess.
Johnny "O"
The song that did it for me was a great melodic song that is seldom
played.
"Once more with feeling" by the
Whispers.
Louis Del Prete
One of my favorite songs is Begin the Beguine by (Johnny Mathis)
Listening to the lyrics & orchestration, I think It was a well
produced song back in the 70's & everytime I play it, it brings
many people to the dance floor!
Jenny Costa
One of the songs that influenced me in a big way and one that I played
all the time back in the day was "La Vie En Rose" by Grace
Jones. I used to play it all the time, usually when I opened
and closed the night. It's a song with so much
passion and beautiful lyrics. It was one of the first songs I
danced to with my husband Vincent. The song always brings me such great
memories.
Bobby Morales
My 2 songs are It's Just Begun by The Jimmy Castor Bunch and Give It Up
And Turn It Loose (Sex Machine) by James Brown, in that order. Before
Hustle was invented, break dancing, also known as up-rocking and
burning, ruled NYC. From the first time I heard 2 records mixed
together in 1973, every local dance, DJ in the park or school yard,
break contest or club, in every neighborhood in every borough, played
Just Begun and Sex Machine back to back. It was always the highlight of
every gig. The energy of the one on one battles between some of the
baddest dancers ever was amazing. Even more incredible was watching
sometimes 40 rockers facing 40 rockers, in many cases total strangers,
doing the same squat-up move to the downbeat, looking almost
choreographed!! It truly was a sight that's still gives me chills when
I describe it. My one regret is that camcorders weren't around at the
time so I could share these amazing memories. Watching the DJ's create
this guaranteed energy with these 2 songs was enough proof for me that
spinning was something I NEED to do!! 35 years later, the love, respect
and appreciation I have for deejaying is as strong as ever, and these
two all-time classics still bring down the house!!
Philip C. Spinka
I started DJing in 1987 because I was obsessed with collecting and
listening to music. I did not dance back then, but I did sing
and act. I started a DJ business to do weddings and
dances. I loved Jazz, Club, Rock, and Pop music.
Then I discovered real club music and DJ remixes. My two
favorite songs were: "This Jam Is Cold" by CVello and "No Deeper
Meaning" by Culture Beat. Looking back, I do not like them as
much now, but their driving beat seemed exhilarating at the time. In
2002, I rediscovered DJing and I focused on music for
dancers. A DJ who trains as a dancer actually knows what is
good for dancers. Now, my favorite music is Blues,
Contemporary West Coast, Club Remixes, and Classic Disco. And
a beautiful Waltz is hard to beat! An old Disco song with an
orchestra is the best. I like Vince Montana, Jr.
Some of my Favorite songs are: "Devil's Gun" by CJ and Company,
"Summertime" by MFSB, "Vertigo/Relight My Fire" by Dan Hartman, "Shine
On SIlver Moon" by Billy Davis Jr and Marilyn McCoo, and "Not Gonna
Change by Swing Out Sister".
Mike Brooks
I was very shy DJing brought my confidence and brought me out of my
shell but back then my favs were "I'll be holding on" by Al
Downing also" Funky President" & "MY Thang" both by James Brown
moving on to the disco years all time favs "Risky
Changes"--Bionic Boogie, "Show Me What You're made of" --The Johnny
King Band, " Where do we go from here", "Love Epidemic" & "Hold
back the night" all by the Trammps. Ron, some times
I can't remember what I ate the day before but why do I remember
this!!!! Well I loved this business more than life I lived, breathed,
ate DJing and in the beginning It wasn't for the
money
Ken Mercik
With me ... it's not the song ... it's the type of music. There is no
"One Song" I play all the time. Quite honestly, I get bore with most
songs pretty quickly ... especially that "Thunk-A-Thunk" kind of
contemporary music an element of the West Coast Swing World likes to
dance too. With me, it's Blues & Soul. I'm always looking for
something new (Or Old ... but unplayed). I have played an instrument
since I was 10 years old Starting with trumpet, Trombone, French Horn,
... Alto Tenor and Baritone Sax, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Flute, Fiddle and
eventually steel guitar. I was a competitor in the UCWDC
(United Country & Western Dance Council) in the late 80's and
thru the mid 90's ... during the time that West Coast Swing was
becoming popular, and the Country Events were adding "Swing Rooms".
With my collection of music and experience both as a competitive
dancer, and musician, I naturally fell into the roll of "DJ". At the
peak of my involvement in the dance community, I was the DJ at anywhere
from 28-36 events per year ... combined UCWDC and US Swing Assoc
events.
DJ Dominick
At 17 Years old, I was at Feather's on a slow Sunday Afternoon
(Beach Party Day) & I was at the bar drinking &
listening to DJ Scat. I went up to the DJ booth & asked him how
to do what he was doing & after a brief explanation &
showing me what knobs do what, he asked me if I wanted to give it a
try....I did & I liked it. The next day I went out to "Crazy
Eddie's" & bought 2 Technics 1200 turntables, Voice Of The
Theater Speakers, NuMark Mixer & a Sony Amplifier....Then Went
to "Jimmy's Music World" & bought $500 worth of music, mostly
12" 45's. Started playing at home and went back to Feathers
the following Sunday & again, Scat asked me if I wanted to do
some mixes, I did & mixed a few
songs. Scat asked me if I wanted to "spin there on
Sunday, Monday & Tuesday nights, which I did &
eventually, when Scat moved his talent to the Las Vegas night scene, I
became the main DJ at Feathers, along with Tony Lovetro.... When I was
in the business, there were so many songs that made a lasting
impression on me. It was the "Saturday Night fever" days & soon
after that was the "Thank God It's Friday" era. I have a lot of GREAT
memories from my DJ'ing days, many just watching the hustle dancers
"OWN" the dance floor. Mike Angelleti, Craig Ye, James "Mr.
Smooth" Stanford and a host of others. But, my fondest memories as a DJ
had to be playing "Magic Bird Of Fire" by The Salsoul
Orchestra being mesmerized by watching George &
Debbie's routine. I wish we could bring those times back....At least
for 1 night....Do I Hear "REUNION"
DJ Mark
I was a nightclub/wedding/party DJ before I became a night club
DJ, playing music for the hustle world.
My favorites include, Salsoul Orchestra Classics- "Oooh I Like
It", Cerrone Classics, " I Feel Love" - Donna
Summer, " Jingo" -
Candido, "You Know How To Love
Me" - Phyllis Hyman and "Forbidden Love" - Madleen Kane
Noel Colon
The classics were the songs that originally inspired me.
"Swearin' to God" - Frankie Valli, "Saturday Night" - Thelma
Houston
and "Was that all it was" - Jean Carn
DanceTalk * 5-19-08
-
Happy Birthday wishes to Minnie Ruiz, Cathy
Rankel, Debra Kee, Frank Santan and DJ
Johnny "V" Vicino.
Considered to be the greatest hustle dancer of all time, The late Eddie
Vega would have celebrated his birthday this week. He is one
of the very few to be recognized as a "Life Time Achievement" member on
the Hustle Hall Of Fame.
She is turning 62 years old & still going strong. Cher
celebrates her birthday today.
Tony Pace has announced that "the 2008 recipient of the 5th Annual
Gladys Torres Spirit Award is Diane Nardone - for her spirit,
community & dance. Gladys energy for dance, people, community
& God was spiritual. She felt blessed to be with you, even if
it was just one time. Little did she know that the reverse was true.
This year on Good Friday, Gladys was taken from us. We will present
Diane with the award at the 10th Annual CInco De Mayo Dance Festival
when we attend this years "World Hustle Dance Championships". Gladys
had 3 communications to Tony and a prayer: 1. Yes! 2. Let’s
Do It! 3. Awesome! And “Thank You, Jesus!”
It's your turn to learn to Salsa. Get started now at SoHo
Dance Studio located @ 598 Broadway 6th flr. NYC 10012
(between Houston & Broadway) Group & Private classes
available. Registered students refer a friend and receive 1 FREE
private lesson. NEW hip hop & street funk classes on
Fridays! Check out https://sohodancestudio.com for
more info
Once again, Madonna sits at the top of the charts
with her new hit single, "4 Minutes," featuring Justin Timberlake.
Get ready New York, 2 of the top talents from "Dancing With
The Stars" spend a night up close with you on Saturday, May
31 at the Surburban Temple, 2900 Jerusalem Ave. Wantagh, Long
Island. Karina Smirnoff & Louie Van Amstel.
Reserve your seats now. (516) 819 - 9016 -
louisdelprete@yahoo.com See more details below. http://www.mjames.org/may31_surburban.html
May 22nd, Thursday night the two hour season premier of the high energy
dance show, "So You Think You Can Dance," 8PM EST
on Fox.
Check out the creative images from Anita Giacone's
birthday celebration held at Michael's Cafe, courtesy of Fred.
http://whatsnew.fredf.fotki.com/
This week is the season conclusion of Dancing With The Stars,
May 19th, and the results show is on Wednesday the 20th. 9PM EST on
ABC.
High five to the entire cast of "Dancing With The Cherry Hill
Stars." The auditorium sold out days prior, 1000
tickets. Thanks to Shannon Anderson & Edward
McCorkle, Andre' Phelps & Lara Webb Barrett, Dara
Patrusky & Adam Noar,
Ron Bess & Kim Pizzelli....sixteen couples total. The
professional & amateur dancers raised over $27,000.00 for the
students of the Cherry Hill public schools.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Miami Dance
Magic, read about this new event below. http://www.CoastalDanceConnection.com
Make it a great week,
Ron
Miami Dance Magic
Miami is a major hub for tourism, business conventions, the beaches and
now for "Miami Dance Magic." Southern Florida will get even hotter as
the first "Miami Dance Magic" weekend takes place on July 17 - 20th.
The buzz is everywhere as Debra Lynn hosts a Hustle, Swing &
Salsa weekend at the Miami Hyatt Regency. The party Kicks-Off on
Thursday night, 7 PM with world Champions Tatiana Mollmann &
Jordan Frisbee teaching a WCS workshop at 8PM. These two are
the best of the best. You will be amazed. After the workshop its time
to dance. There will be competitions, performances, workshops and lots
of open dancing throughout the entire weekend. The Saturday Night
Spectacular Entertainment Show is open to the public but recommended to
buy your tickets early (through Ticketmaster for only $45).
Visit the website to register now. Are you ready to get up front for
all the action. Dancing with the Miami Stars makes its debut. America
loves watching Dancing with the Stars on the tube, now your see World
and National Champions performing and competing just for you.
The show takes place on July 19th at 8 PM. It begins with a Triple
Threat Competition, Swing, Hustle & Salsa, followed by the
performance section of the show featuring the all-star dance staff
choreographed by two of the best in the business...Billy Fajardo
& Katie Marlow. This will be followed by the Showtime
Competition which includes any choreographed style of dance routine.
The evening show will conclude with the professional Champions dancing
in Strictly West Coast Swing & Just Dance Hustle Competitions.
These competitions along with the professional performances are sure to
make this one of the most spectacular dance events ever! This amazing
Miami Dance Magic Spectacular Show is open to the public and will
entertain all ages from very young to the mature. When you
purchase a full weekend pass, the show is included at no extra charge
along with all the weekend workshops. For more information about the
event please call Debbie Lynn at 954-270-0232. All 9 AM
workshops are free and open to the public Friday-Sunday!, All
weekend passes include all the dance workshops. However, Miami Dance
Magic wants to introduce dance to everyone so they are opening up our 9
AM classes on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to everyone that would like
to take a beginner class. Talk about getting the world dancing. They
are offering hustle, WCS, salsa on 1 & salsa on 2 beginner
classes. These classes are being offered by some of South Florida's
finest dance instructors. Sunday night for the final
workshop, Katrina Branson & Christoper Hussey will teach then
"Dancing Till Dawn" at our Hot Miami Dance Jam! Spectators are always
welcome! Ready to be treated to an intensive Swing weekend. Skippy
Blair hosts the Summer Intensive. Her workshop week is a fantastic way
to learn about dance. It begins Sunday, July 13. Her schedule is on her
website. She will also be teaching a dance workshop Saturday, July 19.
You are allowed to take just a few days, but is recommended to take the
entire week. Make sure to take part in the first of its kind, "Miami
Dance Magic". For all the details and to register visit: http://www.CoastalDanceConnection.com
Wow! What an event! The International Hustle Salsa
Championship 2008 was a hive of non-stop activity for all
attendees. Each year, the event grows by both attendance and
duration. Participants checked in on Wednesday to attend the
pre-Pre-Party held at the Palladium nightclub. The Starlight
Rhythms Pro-Am Competition started Thursday morning.
Attendees were delighted by the special Thursday night gala dinner and
professional show by International Latin champions Eugene Katsevman
& Maria Manusova and American Rhythm finalists Michael Neil
& Danielle Wilson. The Poolside Welcome party was in
full force on the main level. A full roster of Hustle and
Salsa competitions ensued all day Friday along with a top level
workshops. Mother Nature was at her finest, and the famous
daily poolside dance party was complemented by picture perfect
beachside weather. Friday night featured the Copa Night Salsa and
Hustle parties, with live Latin music from Potencia Latina.
In the Open to the World Hustle Dance Championships Kelvin Roche
& Lori Ann Greenhouse took first place among the top
competition. The 2008 Dance Dimensions Show performed to a packed
house. The Augie & Margo Rodriguez Award was
presented to Lisa Nunziella and Eddie Torres. Organizer Billy
Fajardo was presented a surprise recognition award and was crowned "The
King of Hustle" by an appreciative crowd. The party continued until the
wee hours of the morning in three separate ballrooms - DJ Johnny O
(Hustle), live Latin Music at the Born 2 Salsa Party with DJ Henry
Knowles and DJs Chris Hemmer & Vicki Fearonhe (WCS). Workshops,
Jack & Jills and the Sunday post party momentum continued
through the final day. Attendees left the Miami Beach Resort
& Spa with a great tan, and tired feet from the non-stop
dancing and partying. Organizers Billy Fajardo & Katie Marlow
would like to thank all of those who participated in IHSC
2008. Stay tuned for details on the IHSC's 10th Anniversary
in 2009. For photos and videos visit
http://thehustlelounge.com/ihsc-2008-photos-update-i/
http://thehustlelounge.com/ihsc-2008-photos-update-pt-ii/
http://thehustlelounge.com/ihsc-2008-photos-update-pt-iii/
http://thehustlelounge.com/lisa-nunziella-hockley-montage/
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)
Wow - very interesting letter from "Pat" regarding hustle's image! Some
really good points made. It is frustrating to always see a
caricature of John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever" and have people
think that that is "Hustle". Maybe we could start a conversation on how
to change our "image" and entice more new, young people to learn
hustle. Thoughts anyone?
Ava Apple http://www.avaapple.com 415
681-8140
.................
Hi Ron
I wanted to comment about the down slide of the hustle. If people are
waiting for a new movie to come out to lift it, well, as we say in New
York, fagetaboutit. The hustle has always had a dark cloud over its
head. You say hustle and they think of white suits, Studio 54, drugs
and the BeeGees. As we all know there is a lot more to this dance. It
gets mistakenly branded that way and the real hustle hasn't receive
enough national exposure. Even when they do "disco" dances on the
shows, they choose cheesy songs and make a mockery of the dance. It
does suffer from a poor image as was written.
Frank
.................
Dear Ron
Thank you for giving space and time to Nan. I worked with her
in the organization of my Hustle plus Dance trips to NYC as well as
seeing her wonderful smile at Hustle USA and Steppin Out and Lincoln
Center. It was always a pleasure - any encounter with Nan
left you feeling good. That is a special gift she
had. She was a positive force for Hustle, dancers and
people. It made me think of something I thought you may want
to add to your "Favorites" survey: Favorite Hustle Dance
Ambassador. Nan was definitely a wonderful dance ambassador
for our community and I can think of many others who are gracious and
generous and selfless on and off the dance floor that I would love to
see recognized along with the "stars."
Thanks Ron, Miss you Nan
Kim Vanaman
.................
As I catch up to some of my dance buddies in the ageless struggle of
aging... :) Thank you for being there on my birthday last week to
celebrate! Ceilly - thank you for being brave and letting me
lead you.....DJ Mark and Ron Bess - thank you for my favorite
current songs..... 4 minutes by Madonna and Flo Rida's song.... and to
the other guys who danced with me (and those who sent me emails/txt
msgs)...I had a great time! Don;t stop asking me to dance the rest of
the year! :) and most of all to my best friend,
dance partner and valentine xo..... Patrick. Thank you for the carrot
cake, the dances and for organizing my birthday dance and most of all
making my actual birthday a very special day for me.
I hope I say this often enough....you are terrific! Thanks.
Anita G
.................
Thanks to all who participated in Dance Parade NYC 2008 on Saturday. It
was a beautiful day for the parade and festival with many styles of
dancing represented and I am happy we were a part of it. Special thanks
to Barbara Tibaldi, Bobbi Petri, Chilly Willy, Deborah Ford &
DJ Nelson Roman. Sunday morning I walked the 6 1/2 miles in
the Aid's walk. I donated the $550 collected online and at Club 412
last Saturday night towards the cure and treatment of Aids in our
community and in the world. A very big thank you to all who contributed
and a special thanks to Barbara Tibaldi, Deborah Ford and Doug Hagwood
for their generosity.
Love ya!
Lori Brizzi
Director of NY Hustle Congress, Millennium Dances and Cruises
.................
To Our Good-Hearted Friends at Michael's Cafe,
Recently I announced that my Ryan is undergoing aggressive treatment
for Hodgkin's Lymphoma. This past weekend, to help ease his
financial burden for medical care, loss of wages and to express their
love, my family organized a hugely successful fund raiser. To
all of you who purchased raffle tickets, you are all winners in the
spirit of giving. A second private fund raiser is being held
at his father's place of business on 5-28-08. Due to
overwhelming donations, more spectacular gift baskets, gift cards and
prizes will be chanced off. For those of you who would like
to get in on the fun, raffle tickets are available. I cannot
thank you enough for the support that I have received. Thank
you and God Bless.
Kathy Austin (and family)
DanceTalk * 5-12-08
-
Happy birthday wishes to Norma Varrichio Rivera,
Gloria Rothstein, Shannon Johnson, Stephanie
Eisner, Julian Ossias, DJ Bobby Gerard, Michele
Kahwajy, Mark James and Karen Montaldo.
This week actress/singer Grace Jones celebrates her
60th birthday. She appeared with James Bond but is most notably
remembered for her music "I Need A Man," "Thats The Trouble," "Pull up
to the Bumper" and her antics at Studio 54.
Learn to Salsa this summer at NY's best, SoHo Dance Studio.
Located @ 598 Broadway 6th flr. NYC 10012 (between Houston &
Broadway) Group & Private classes available. Registered
students refer a friend and receive 1 FREE private lesson. NEW hip hop
& street funk classes on Fridays! Check out http://www.sohodancestudio.com
for more info
This Saturday night, May 17th, a Dance Benefit in
NY, featuring "First Choice" performing their hits, complimentary
buffet & hors d'ouvres with DJ's Bobby Morales
and Johnny Rocks (WKTU). Visit http://www.feverrecords.com,
more details below.
High Five to Joyce Szilli and the DC area dancers.
They will celebrate 11 Years of dancing on Monday nights, May 12th
(Monday) at Elan DanceSport Center. Come out and dance - food, fun and
cake. http://www.justhustle.com
The month of July jumps for Midnight Summer Swing.
Center stage in NYC featuring Friday, July 11th, "A Lose's Lounge Night
at the Disco" with Zulma Rodriquez & Robert Vance teaching a
hustle lesson with DJ Herb Martin. On July 12th, it's Kids day with
Pierre Dulaine introducing the young ones to the world of ballroom
dancing, as he did in "Take the Lead" For all the details visit http://www.lincolncenter.com
After 33 years, a reunion, Labelle, will release a
new album as Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash (love "Sinner
Man") rejoin in the studio with Lenny Kravitz and Gamble &
Huff. They have all enjoyed successful solo careers over the
years.
The Zachary's Dance Contest returns with a new
date....Friday, May 23rd, in Long Island. One night contest for
$1000.00 in cash and prizes, more details below.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Hustle
Millennium celebrating their anniversary and http://www.thehustlelounge.com
Make it a great week,
Ron
Millennium Hustle turns 7
Seven continuous years of providing high energy, exhilarating
dance events has lead to a big anniversary party for the
Millennium Hustle. Congratulations to Lori Brizzi as she celebrates
Lucky 7. As one of the hardest working ladies in the dance biz (The
Donald should take notes) this mover & shaker is
having the year of her life. Lori invites the hustle community
to celebrate her last party at the 92nd Street this year -
until her New Year's Eve party. Make sure to join her on
Saturday, May 31st for the big night at the 92nd
Street Y.
Voted "Person of the Year," Lori Brizzi, attracts the biggest hustle
crowds at her dance socials. It's the fun factor that makes
this atmosphere special. Lots of dancers will also be celebrating the
kick off of Lori's first Hustle Dance Cruise leaving NY on June
1st.....you can still sail along. See more details below.
The Millennium party kicks off with a free beginner hustle
class, as Lori welcomes new aspiring dancers and those looking
to sharpen their skills. The beginner hustle class is from 8 to 9PM,
then, the man with the hands, DJ Nelson "Paradise" Roman takes over the
turntables and gets the party started. There will be special dance
performances along with the hottest dancers from all over the tri state
area. Your $20 admission includes Champagne Punch, Wine, Soda, Cheese
& Crackers, Snacks, Coffee, Tea and Cake. The Millennium Hustle
party is located at 1395 Lexington Ave bet. 91/92nd Streets.
Before the anniversary party, you can see Lori
this Saturday at the NYC's Dance Parade '08,
which Mayor Bloomburg described as "vibrant display of rhythmic
movement." Once again, Millennium Hustle/NY Hustle Congress
will be represented proudly wearing NY Hustle Congress Tee
shirts. Come join them at the parade, it kicks off at
1PM and moves slowly down the streets of NYC as all different styles of
dancers get to express themselves on floats and vehicles in the
streets. The parade will be followed by a Dance Festival from 4-8 PM
with concerts, performances, lessons, dancing
and Lori will be providing the hustle lesson. But
that's not all. The after - party takes place that
night at Club 412.
Okay, no time to rest as Lori goes into over - drive and participates
in the Aids Walk the following morning. So many of
our dance friends have been afflicted by this disease and Lori
is helping to make a difference by putting her self out there.
You can sponsor Lori for the walk. Please contact her ASAP.
Don't forget hold the date as New York Hustle Congress returns Labor
Day weekend, with an incredible line up of entertainment
for 2008. This years congress will be
bigger with separate rooms for hustle, salsa and
WCS dancing including, an elegant ballroom with
stage. The line up is off the chart featuring everyone's favorite,
from the number 1 radio station
WKTU, mixologist Jenny Costa. The music will be
pumping along with DJ's Henry Knowles, Bobby Morales
and Nelson "Paradise" Roman, plus...a dinner dance show
followed by the Grammy award winning band
the Trammps, performing live. Earl Young and the gang
take over NY playing all their hits including "Disco
Inferno". Stay tuned as we will be keeping you updated on all
the excitement. Like we said, she is the busiest dancer out
there, here is the recap:
May 17th, Saturday, NY Parade with Lori and the after party at
Club 412 Saturday night.
May 18th, Aids Walk, you can sponsor Lori
May 31st, Seven Year Anniversary of Hustle Millennium
June 1- 8 Millennium Hustle Cruise
Labor Day weekend the 2008 NY Hustle Congress.
2008 DJ Directory (part 3)
This is the third and final installment of the 2008 DJ Directory. This
is a comprehensive list of the finest disc jockeys that specialize in
dance music, from all over the globe. Thank you to all the pros for the
energy they put into their work and the enjoyment they bring us. Please
retain this list for future reference - when you need only the best DJ.
The directory is brought to you by http://www.thehustlelounge.com
and DanceTalk®.
Steve Neeren
NY, NY
West Coast Swing, Hustle, California Mix
djwcswing@nyc.rr.com
(917)747-1055
Erik Novoa
Connecticut/ New York
West Coast Swing / Hustle / Salsa
SwingShoes@aol.com
http://www.SwingShoes.net
917-414-3105
DJ Donna Boyle
Phila/NJ
50's to current dance music
Donnaboyle@aol.com
215-740-disco (3472)
http://www.discoamerica.com/
DJ Johnny "O" - Ortiz
Lyndhurst, NJ
Dance music for Club, Socials, Dance Events and Special Occasions
djjohnnyo@hotmail.com
201-679-0888
Frank Pellicci
Hackensack, NJ
Hustle, Salsa, 50's, 60's, 70's & big band
dthustle@optonline.net
201-343-6781
Cesar Ricaurte
Los Angelos, CA
The Hacienda, house, disco, classics and club
cesar.ricaurte@thehustlelounge.com,
949-837-0440
Johnny Rocks
New York, NY
House, Club, Vocals, Disco Classics
JohnnyRocksRemix@aol.com http://www.JohnnyRocks.com
http://www.MySpace.com/DJJohnnyRocks 212-946-5105
Mark Routzahn "DJ Mark"
Philadelphia and the surrounding areas
over 20 years of experience, nightclub, private affairs, Michael's
Cafe,
contemporary hustle, Latin, swing, ballroom, Oldies, Motown, Classic
Rock
Modern Rock, Top 40, 70’s and Disco, Country, Big
Band/Standards, Hip Hop,
Funk/R&B.
DJMARK@comcast.net 215-579-8771
Donnie Shields
NYC - VIP Party Productions
Weddings, Bat/Barmizvahs, Corporate Parties, Hustle, Latin and Ballroom,
Professional Light Shows, MCs, Dancers, Fun Photo Packages, Party Favors
516 318 7127 - 718 279 4863
cdoligist@aol.com
DJ Philip C. Spinka
PA - Submarine Productions
Hustle, West Coast, Ballroom, Weddings, Privates, More
570-466-1000
philip@spinka.com
http://www.submarineproductions.com
Nino Torre - The Midnight Music Co. / NiteMix Productions
Richmond, VA and Brooklyn, NY
Mobile and Club DJ for over 25 yrs. Known to host Hustle and Salsa
parties at high profile
NYC landmarks like the legendary Windows On The World and Tavern On The
Green. Hustle, Salsa
718-926-3704 (NYC) or 804-303-8884 (VA).
http://www.NiteMix.WS
DJ Johnny V [ John Vicino ]
Babylon, LI NY
Night Club, private parties, Hustle, Contemporary
djjohnnyv2@aol.com
516-220-3845 -- 631-587-1883
Yahu
POLAND
OLD SCHOOL, Disco, PIONEER DEEJAY.
YAHUDEE@Y
http://www.djsportal.com
DJ Jimmy Yu
Palm Beach, Florida
houseofu@msn.com
561-310-0030
Professional DJ since 1974 with the ability to play any type of dance
venue.
Dancing with the Stars
We are only a week away from this season's finale of "Dancing With the
Stars."
The show continues to be a major ratings grabber and has
re-kick-started many of the celebrites/sports figures languishing
careers. It appears the ingredients of the show is not just
limited to the stars but ....eye candy dance pros that reek of style,
natural beauty, agility, youth and flair but......a few championship
titles goes along way as well. Here is a snippet of the
background of this past seasons professionals.
(The pros underlined are still in the running for the Mirror Ball title
this season)
Derek Hough - former world youth Latin American
champion
Jonathan Roberts - previously the US
Rising Star Latin Champion
Tony Dovolani - undefeated World American Rhythm
Champion
Louis Van Amstel - 3 time Latin American
World champion
Mark Ballas Jr - multi year Youth World &
Latin British Champion
Fabian Sanchez - former World Mambo Champion
Kym Johnson - Australian Dance 10 champion
Etita Slovinski, International Grand Ball Champion
Cheryl Burke - 2 time winner on Dancing
With The Stars
Julianne hough - 2 time winner on Dancing
with the Stars
Karina Smirnoff - Five Time Latin Ballroom champion
Anna Sloviska - Us National Rising Star
Champion
DanceTalk * 5-5-08
-
Make it a great Cinco De Mayo and have a Happy
Mother's Day.
Happy Birthday wishes to Laura Cozik, Smitty, Sandi
Castle, Bobby O and Anthony Bozarth.
Frank Nelson of Winter Garden, Florida, passed away last
week. Please keep his dancing friends and family in your thoughts and
prayers.
He was born this week in 1899, the man that brought ballroom dancing to
the world on the silver screen. Mr. Dance, Fred Astaire.
Neil Bogart passed away 16 years ago. He appeared on
the "Thank God Its Friday" tribute held on the Merv Griffin show. He
was the president of Casablanca Records and gave many artists their
first break in the music industry.
Congratulations to all the winners at this years International
Hustle Salsa Championships held in Miami. The incomparable Lisa
Nunziella was honored with the Augie & Margo
Award.
Congratulations to Glen Miller & the Swing Dance
America attendees, held in Milwaukee Wisconsin. In the Open
Hustle Jack & Jill, 1st place went to Nino Digiulio &
Stephanie Risser, 2nd Fred Price & Angie Cameron, 3rd Carlos
Garcia & Leslie Bricker, 4th Eric Novoa &
Elizabeth Gutzwiler, 5th Paul Cameron & Carrie
Richards. For all the results visit
http://swingdanceamerica.com/winners.html
Starting June 2nd, it's the newest reality show, searching
for the lead star to appear in the Broadway show "Legally
Blonde." The TV show premieres on MTV.
Get into the new dance classes at SoHo Dance Studio,
starting May 5th. Salsa, Ballroom & Hip Hop
classes-new cycle running May 5th - May 31st. Registered students refer
a friend and receive 1 FREE private lesson. Located at 598 Broadway,
6th flr. NYC 10012 p 212-226-6767 http://www.sohodancestudio.com
If your hungry for new dance music, here is your chance to get the
newest songs, all on one CD. DJ Fancy's May
Release. It features new songs from Madonna, Janet Jackson, Jordan
Sparks & Chris Brown, Paula Abdul, Robyn, Moby, Lucas
Prada, 16 new dance songs in all. To order contact
DJ Fancy at sparda3636@yahoo.com Only $15 includes
shipping and handling.
It's the 2nd highest rated television show, Dancing with the
Stars, celebrates its 100th episode this Tuesday, 8PM EST.
Several stars return to the dance floor: Apolo Anton Ohno, Julianne
Hough, Mel B, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Mario Lopez.
Mark James & Karen Lupo
attended the New York Society Teachers of Dance (NYSTD) Annual Spring
Banquet in Queens, NY this past Saturday - and enjoyed another great
performance by Lucas Jaime & Yanna Samkovo.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by The Easterns and http://www.thehustlelounge.com,
read more below. http://www.BarryDurand.com
Make it a great week,
Ron
The Easterns (Washington Dance Challenge)
The Easterns are here, from May 8th to the 11th. The event of
spring comes to the Hilton Washington Dulles (1-800-Hiltons) for a mix
of dancing, workshops and competitions. This is the 21st anniversary of
the Washington Dance Challenge hosted by dance Champion, Barry Durand.
A former 'Dance Fever' television champion, Barry has conquered many
dance quests, as the publisher of his own national Dance magazine, he
has been organizing dance competitions bringing dancers together from
all over the USA. The weekend has an extensive menu that offers dishes
for every dance appetite. Swing, hustle, country, line dancing,
ballroom, plus more. Always a fun, friendly atmosphere, your enjoy over
40 workshops, competitions, variety show, a great hotel setting with 2
ballrooms and the famous lobby dance floor and a talented staff. This
years invited pros includes: Robert & Nicola Royston,
Silvana Gallagher, John Lindo, Billy Marti, Jason Barnes &
Erica Berg, George Garcia, Ken Roesel, Brian Gallagher, Debbie
Lynn, Dave Moldover, Anthony Lee, Kevin Fitzhugh &
Tamara Brown, Joyce Szili, Frank Glowczewskie, Tony & Shawn
Nguyen, Lisa & Christopher Joe Shaupp, Dean & Dawn
Garrish, Barry Durand, Sam & Denise Miller, John & Dee
Soares, Jeff and Lynn Bartholomew, Sam & Chris Wetzel
Mal & Linda Zerden, Wild Man Louie St George, Clive
Stevens, Hot Pepper, BJ Brown, Louie St. George, DJ Jam, Mike
Kelly, Kelly Faust, Bruce Bryant, Sharon Roberts..... The event takes
place this coming weekend at the Hilton Washington Dulles Hotel, make
sure you ask for the special $90 rate register now at http://www.DanceEasterns.com,
Events & Videos: http://www.BarryDurand.com
http://www.MyDanceLesson.com
DJ Directory 2008 (part 2 - 3)
This is the 2nd installment of our 3 part series on the finest disc
jockeys, specializing in dance music, from all over the USA. Many of
these pros are on the air and/or take part at the national dance
events. Thank you to all these professionals for the energy they put
into their work and the enjoyment they bring us. Please retain this
list for future reference - when you need a top notch DJ.
The directory is brought to you by http://www.hustlelounge.com
and DanceTalk®.
Valerie Hunt (aka DJ Girl Wonder)
Phoenix, AZ
Hustle, Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, Ballroom
email: djgirlwonder@gmail.com
website: http://djgirlwonder.blogspot.com/
(480) 829-6272
Mark James
Long Island & New York City
Hustle, WCS & Salsa
dannsirs@yahoo.com
516.835.9996
http://www.ultimatedancezone.com
DeeJay Vicki Kay
West Palm Beach/Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Swing, Hustle, Latin, Ballroom
DJVic@MrDancePro.com
website - http://www.MrDancePro.com
(561) 414-1503
Barry Lederer
New York City
All genres
barry254@msn.com
website --http://www.myspace.com/barrysdiscomix1
212-460-9281
DJ Linda
Wilmington, Del
Music for Weddings & Special Events
215-817-0955
e mail djlinda@aol.com
website http://www.djlinda.com
John Lindo
Morristown, NJ
swing, country, hustle, latin
jl@johnlindo.com
website – http://www.johnlindo.com
973-538-7147
DJ Maestro
Detroit Michagan
Dance, hustle
DJmaestro4life@aol.com
586 - 615 - 5869
DJ Dennis Matera
Totowa, New Jersey
Hustle, Salsa, WCS, Ballroom, 2-step, hip - hop, Club, Top 40, Dance,
house, classic house, Rock, classic rock,
website - http://www.DJDENNISMUSIC.COM
CELL 973-768-2168
HOME:973-790-6711
Jackie McCloy
Long Island, New York
35 Years of Dance Music from Pre-Saturday Night Fever Underground Disco
to Contemporary Progressive
LIRecordPool@aol.com
(516)796-6596
Ken Mercik
Enfield, CT
WC Swing (Blues, Contemporary, Etc...), Ballroom, Country, Classic
Rock, Oldies (50's on up)
Phone - 860-749-5434
E-mail - ken@djkenm.com, djkenm@aol.com
Website - http://www.djkenm.com
Dave Moldover
Washington, DC
Variety Dance Music & More
dave@dancejamproductions.com
http://www.dancejamproductions.com
301.330.7708
DJ Bobby Morales
New York City
Rare and Commercial Disco Classics,
Deep Soulful House Music, Salsa and Freestyle
Mixed Cd's available
DJBobbymo@aol.com
(347) 524-5315
George "Cody" Morse
Long Island, NY
Ballroom, Argentine Tango, WC Swing, Hustle
Phone: 631-744-7777
E-mail: Info@LIDance.org
Websites: http://www.LIDance.org
& http://www.TangoUSA.com
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)
Let me say a little about a very nice and decent person, Nan.
I met Nan at Stepping Out Studio when it was at 57th Street &
Broadway. She was always polite and friendly. I Danced with her several
times and she always looked like she was having a good time on the
dance floor. When Stepping Out Studio moved to 37 West 26th Street, Nan
moved with them, which showed her dedication. When I started to Host
Wednesday night parties with Simone, I truly got to become closer to
Nan. I hired her to work at all my private partied because I believed
that Nan was a trust worthy person and I could always count on her. Nan
you are truly DANCING WITH THE STARS, and will be missed.
REST IN PEACE
Love Always David Padilla
.........................
Ron,
Thank you for celebrating Nan's spirit and love for dance in this
week's edition of DanceTalk. As we all know, she was a pillar
of support for the Hustle community. Along with many others in this
scene, I have long admired her strong, gracious and graceful
presence. As Arte said, she was selfless. An integral member
of our dance world, she could always be depended upon to help keep our
Hustle family together.
She was one of the first Hustle dancers I met when I came to New
York. At the time, she was an active competitor in theater
arts. She greatly impressed me with her energy, drive and
courage on the dance floor. Nan had to dance and had to be
around it. It was part of her soul. She was a
quite, private person. Therefore, I feel especially fortunate
to have known her and to have seen her perform and "shine" in her
element. Nan, the beautiful dancer with tremendous spirit and
heart, will be
greatly missed by all of us.
Thank you, Ron,
Daria Sanchez
.........................
Dear Ron,
I am glad to read that you celebrated the life of Nan. I didn't know
her (I live outside of Boston). We live in a fragile world. We all move
fast off the dance floor. A life can be snatched away at the blink of
an eye. This makes us all aware of the value of friends and the
importance of taking the time to express ones feelings off and on the
dance floor. By the letters I have read, Nan was a beautiful person,
inside and out. I love your newsletter for letting others express their
sorrow and personal interaction with her. For many adults, writing your
inner thoughts is a healing process. It emphasizes the care and love
that we should all have for one another. I have limited time between my
family, career and caring for an aging parent, but I always make time
for my friends and to read your newsletter.
God Bless you, your family and those who expressed their love for Nan.
Alice Anne
.........................
Hi Ron:
Some of the e-mails sent to you support DJ's playing faster (130bpm and
above) music at Hustle events in an attempt to attract new (younger)
dancers. Hustle does not fail to attract new dancers because
of the speed of the music, the internal politics
or competition judging standards (all cited as apparent
causes).
Hustle fails to attract new dancers primarily because of a
lack of exposure and a poor image. With the plethora of dance
shows on network and cable TV we have seen only one true representation
of Hustle in the last 3 years - when Maria Torres choreographed a dance
routine for 'So You Think You Can Dance', yet we see a (socially
obscure) dance like Paso Doble demonstrated on a regular basis
(?). The head judge on this show (Nigel Lithgow, an
ex-dancer) admitted he didn't know the difference between
'disco' and Hustle. By contrast, Salsa has a carefully crafted
image (dynamic, sexy, exciting etc.), though (Mambo) is at least 20
years older than Hustle it is never thought of as 'dated'. Yes Salsa
has a core ethnic / cultural following but still manages to attract
plenty of non-Hispanic dancers.
Swing dancing has enjoyed a resurgence in the last few years
due, in no small part, to an image make-over
initially driven by the Gap TV commercials which featured teen / twenty
year olds dancing Swing / Lindy Hop (original dance, original music
tempo). While Hip-Hop has gone mainstream Hustle remains the
Rodney Dangerfield of dance, until/unless we improve its image
and increase its exposure I see little change in the number of
new (young) dancers.
Pat
TO RON
SOME DANCE LINKS
Webmaster & Sponsored by Mark James
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